of the sweetest songster of the forest, reach your ear long before
you have espied the Piping Plover. Now and then, these sounds come
from perhaps twenty different directions, and you are perplexed, as
well as delighted. At the approach of autumn, this species becomes
almost mute, the colour of the plumage fades; and it is then very
difficult for you to perceive one that may be only a few yards off,
until it starts and runs or flies before you. At this season they
are less shy than before.
During winter they are generally in good condition, and their flesh
is very delicate and savoury, although, on account of their small
size, they seldom draw the sportsman after them. Their food consists
of marine insects, minute shell-fish, and small sand worms.
RINGED PLOVER, CHARADRIUS HIATICULA, _var. Wils._ Amer.
Ornith. vol. v. p. 30. pl. 37. fig. 3.
CHARADRIUS MELODUS, _Ch. Bonaparte_, Synops. of Birds of
the United States, p. 296.
PIPING RINGED PLOVER, _Nuttall_, Manual, vol. ii. p. 18.
Male in Summer. Plate CCXX. Fig. 1.
Bill half the length of the head, straight, somewhat cylindrical. Upper
mandible with the dorsal line straight to the middle, then bulging
a little and curving to the tip, which projects beyond that of the
lower mandible, the sides flat and sloping at the base, convex towards
the end, the edges sharp and overlapping. Nasal groove extended to
the middle of the bill, filled with a bare membrane; nostrils basal,
linear, in the lower part of the membrane, open, and pervious. Lower
mandible with the angle rather short, rounded, the sides at the base
sloping outwards and flat, the dorsal line ascending and slightly
convex, the edges sharp and inflected.
Head of moderate size, oblong, compressed, the forehead rounded. Eyes
large. Neck short. Body rather slender, ovate. Wings long. Feet of
moderate length, slender; tibia bare a little above the joint; tarsus
rather compressed, covered all round with reticulated angular scales;
toes slender; the hind toe wanting; third or middle toe longest,
outer toe considerably longer than inner, all scutellate above and
marginate, the outer connected with the middle by a short membrane;
claws small, compressed, obtuse, the rather blunt inner edge of the
middle claw a little dilated.
Plumage soft and blended; the feathers rounded, those on the back
somewhat distinct. Wings long and pointed; primary quills tapering,
the first longest, the second a little shorter, the rest rapidly
graduated; inner secondaries tapering and elongated, so as nearly to
equal the longest primaries. Tail of moderate length, slightly rounded,
of twelve rather narrow feathers, which taper a little towards their
rounded extremities.
Bill orange in its basal half, the rest black. Iris reddish-brown;
margins of eyelids orange. Feet brownish-yellow; claws dusky. Forehead,
sides of the face, throat, and the whole under parts, pure white.
Upper parts pale brownish-grey. A black band across the upper part
of the forehead, another surrounds the lower part of the neck, broad
on the sides, but narrow above and below, where it is formed merely
by the tips of some of the feathers. Above this is a white band over
the hind neck, also very narrow above. Primaries dusky, each with
a large white patch on a portion of the outer, and on the greater
part of the inner web; secondaries of a lighter brown, white on the
inner webs, some of those nearest the body entirely white; the five
innermost like the back; most of the quills are more or less tipped
with white, the primary and secondary coverts more distinctly so. The
tail-feathers may be described as white; the second has a brown spot
on the inner web towards the end, the third a larger spot or band
on both webs, and the colour enlarges on the rest, until the middle
feathers are nearly all dusky brown.
Length to end of tail 7-1/4 inches, to end of claws 7, to end of
wings 6-3/4; extent of wings 15-1/2; wing from flexure 4-1/2; tail
2-2/12; bill along the back 1/2, along the edge of lower mandible
7/12; tarsus (9-1/2)/12; middle toe (7-1/2)/12, its claw 2/12. Weight
3 oz.
Female in Summer. Plate CCXX. Fig. 2.
The Female is considerably smaller, but resembles the male in
colouring, only the dark bands on the forehead and neck are narrower,
and of a dusky brown tint.
Length to end of tail 7 inches, extent of wings 14-1/4.
The young, previous to their first moult, have the bill black, the
feet flesh-coloured, with dusky claws. The colours of the plumage
are nearly the same as in the adult, but there is no dark band on
the forehead, and that on the lower neck is merely indicated by a
brownish-grey patch on each side. The neck is surrounded by a collar
of downy white feathers, and the tips and margins of the feathers of
the head and back are pale ochre.
THE WRECKERS OF FLORIDA.
Long before I reached the lovely islets that border the south-eastern
shores of the Floridas, the accounts I had heard of “The Wreckers”
had deeply prejudiced me against them. Often had I been informed of
the cruel and cowardly methods which it was alleged they employed to
allure vessels of all nations to the dreaded reefs, that they might
plunder their cargoes, and rob their crews and passengers of their
effects. I therefore could have little desire to meet with such men
under any circumstances, much less to become liable to receive their
aid; and with the name of Wreckers, there were associated in my mind
ideas of piratical depredation, barbarous usage, and even murder.
One fair afternoon, while I was standing on the polished deck of
the United States’ revenue cutter the Marion, a sail hove in sight,
bearing in an opposite course, and “close-hauled” to the wind. The
gentle rake of her masts, as she rocked to and fro in the breeze,
brought to my mind the wavings of the reeds on the fertile banks of
the Mississippi. By-and-by the vessel altering her course, approached
us. The Marion, like a sea-bird, with extended wings, swept through
the waters, gently inclining to either side, while the unknown vessel
leaped as it were from wave to wave, like the dolphin in eager pursuit
of his prey. In a short time, we were gliding side by side, and the
commander of the strange schooner saluted our captain, who promptly
returned the compliment. What a beautiful vessel! we all thought;
how trim, how clean-rigged, and how well manned! She swims like a
duck; and now with a broad sheer, off she makes for the reefs, a few
miles under our lee. There, in that narrow passage, well known to her
commander, she rolls, tumbles, and dances, like a giddy thing, her
copper sheathing now gleaming, and again disappearing under the waves.
But the passage is thrid, and now, hauling on the wind, she resumes
her former course, and gradually recedes from the view. Reader, it
was a Florida Wrecker!
When at the Tortugas, I paid a visit to several vessels of this
kind, in company with my excellent friend ROBERT DAY, Esq. We had
observed the regularity and quickness of the men then employed at
their arduous tasks, and as we approached the largest schooner, I
admired her form so well adapted to her occupation, her great breadth
of beam, her light draught, the correctness of her water-line, the
neatness of her painted sides, the smoothness of her well-greased
masts, and the beauty of her rigging. We were welcomed on board with
all the frankness of our native tars. Silence and order prevailed
on her decks. The commander and the second officer led us into a
spacious cabin, well lighted, and furnished with every convenience
for fifteen or more passengers. The former brought me his collection
of marine shells, and whenever I pointed to one that I had not seen
before, offered it with so much kindness, that I found it necessary
to be careful in expressing my admiration of any particular shell.
He had also many eggs of rare birds, which were all handed over to
me, with an assurance that before the month should expire, a new set
could easily be procured, “for,” said he, “we have much idle time on
the reefs at this season.” Dinner was served, and we partook of their
fare, which consisted of fish, fowl, and other materials. These rovers,
who were both from “down east,” were stout active men, cleanly and
smart in their attire. In a short time, we were all extremely social
and merry. They thought my visit to the Tortugas, in quest of birds,
was rather “a curious fancy;” but, notwithstanding, they expressed
their pleasure while looking at some of my drawings, and offered
their services in procuring specimens. Expeditions far and near were
proposed, and on settling that one of them was to take place on the
morrow, we parted friends.
Early next morning, several of these kind men accompanied me to
a small key called Booby Island, about ten miles distant from the
lighthouse. Their boats were well manned, and rowed with long and
steady strokes, such as whalers and men-of-war’s men are wont to
draw. The captain sang, and at times, by way of frolic, ran a race
with our own beautiful bark. The Booby Isle was soon reached, and
our sport there was equal to any we had elsewhere. They were capital
shots, had excellent guns, and knew more about boobies and noddies
than nine-tenths of the best naturalists in the world. But what will
you say when I tell you that the Florida Wreckers are excellent at a
deer hunt, and that at certain seasons, “when business is slack,” they
are wont to land on some extensive key, and in a few hours procure
a supply of delicious venison.
Some days afterwards, the same party took me on an expedition in
quest of sea-shells. There we were all in the water at times to the
waist, and now and then much deeper. Now they would dip, like ducks,
and on emerging would hold up a beautiful shell. This occupation they
seemed to enjoy above all others.
The duties of the Marion having been performed, intimation of our
intended departure reached the Wreckers. An invitation was sent to me
to go and see them on board their vessels, which I accepted. Their
object on this occasion was to present me with some superb corals,
shells, live turtles of the Hawk-billed species, and a great quantity
of eggs. Not a “pecayon” would they receive in return, but putting
some letters in my hands, requested me to “be so good as put them
in the mail at Charleston,” adding that they were for their wives
“down east.” So anxious did they appear to be to do all they could
for me, that they proposed to sail before the Marion, and meet her
under weigh, to give me some birds that were rare on the coast, and
of which they knew the haunts. Circumstances connected with “the
service” prevented this, however; and with sincere regret, and a
good portion of friendship, I bade these excellent fellows adieu.
How different, thought I, is often the knowledge of things acquired
by personal observation, from that obtained by report!
I had never before seen Florida Wreckers, nor has it since been my
fortune to fall in with any; but my good friend, Dr BENJAMIN STROBEL,
having furnished me with a graphic account of a few days which he
spent with them, I shall present you with it in his own words.
“On the 12th day of September, while lying in harbour at Indian Key, we
were joined by five wrecking vessels. Their licences having expired,
it was necessary to go to Key West to renew them. We determined to
accompany them the next morning, and here it will not be amiss for me
to say a few words respecting these far-famed Wreckers, their captains
and crews. From all that I had heard, I expected to see a parcel
of dirty, pirate-looking vessels, officered and manned by a set of
black-whiskered fellows, who carried murder in their very looks. I was
agreeably surprised on discovering that the vessels were fine large
sloops and schooners, regular clippers, kept in first-rate order. The
Captains generally were jovial, good-humoured sons of Neptune, who
manifested a disposition to be polite and hospitable, and to afford
every facility to persons passing up and down the Reef. The crews
were hearty, well-drest, and honest-looking men.
“On the 13th, at the appointed hour, we all set sail together, that
is, the five Wreckers and the schooner Jane. As our vessel was not
noted for fast-sailing, we accepted an invitation to go on board of a
Wrecker. The fleet got under weigh about eight o’clock in the morning,
the wind light but fair, the water smooth, and the day fine. I can
scarcely find words to express the pleasure and gratification which
I this day experienced. The sea was of a beautiful soft, pea-green
colour, smooth as a sheet of glass, and as transparent, its surface
agitated only by our vessels as they parted its bosom, or by the
Pelican in pursuit of his prey, which rising for a considerable
distance in the air, would suddenly plunge down with distended
mandibles and secure his food. The vessels of our little fleet, with
every sail set that could catch a breeze, and the white foam curling
round the prows, glided silently along, like islands of flitting
shadows, on an immovable sea of light. Several fathoms below the
surface of the water, and under us, we saw great quantities of fish
diving and sporting among the sea-grass, sponges, sea-feathers, and
corals, with which the bottom was covered. On our right hand were
the Florida Keys, which, as we made them in the distance, looked like
specks upon the surface of the water, but as we neared them, rose to
view as if by enchantment, clad in the richest livery of spring, each
variety of colour and hue rendered soft and delicate by a clear sky
and a brilliant sun over head. All was like a fairy scene; my heart
leaped up in delighted admiration, and I could not but exclaim in
the language of SCOTT,
“Those seas behold, Round thrice an hundred islands rolled.”
The trade-wind played around us with balmy and refreshing sweetness;
and, to give life and animation to the scene, we had a contest for the
mastery between all the vessels of the fleet, while a deep interest
was excited in favour of this or that vessel, as she shot ahead, or
fell astern.
About three o’clock in the afternoon, we arrived off the Bay of
Honda. The wind being light, and no prospect of reaching Key West
that night, it was agreed that we should make a harbour here. We
entered a beautiful basin and came to anchor about four o’clock.
Boats were got out, and several hunting parties formed. We landed,
and were soon on the scent, some going in search of shells, others of
birds. An Indian, who had been picked up somewhere along the coast
by a Wrecker, and who was employed as a hunter, was sent ashore in
search of venison. Previous to his leaving the vessel, a rifle was
loaded with a single ball, and put into his hands. After an absence
of several hours, he returned with two deer, which he had killed at
a single shot. He watched until they were both in range of his gun,
side by side, when he fired and brought them down.
All hands having returned, and the fruits of our excursion being
collected, we had wherewithal to make an abundant supper. Most of the
game was sent on board the largest vessel, where we proposed supping.
Our vessels were all lying within hail of each other, and as soon as
the moon arose, boats were seen passing from vessel to vessel, and
all were busily and happily engaged in exchanging civilities. One
could never have supposed that these men were professional rivals,
so apparent was the good-feeling that prevailed among them. About
nine o’clock we started for supper; a number of persons had already
collected, and as soon as we arrived on board the vessel, a German
sailor, who played remarkably well on the violin, was summoned on the
quarter-deck, when all hands, with a good will, cheerily danced to
lively airs until supper was ready. The table was laid in the cabin,
and groaned under its load of venison, wild ducks, pigeons, curlews,
and fish. Toasting and singing succeeded the supper, and among other
curious matters introduced, the following song was sung by the German
fiddler, who accompanied his voice with his instrument. He is said
to be the author of the song. I say nothing of the poetry, but merely
give it as it came on my ear. It is certainly very characteristic.
THE WRECKER’S SONG.
Come ye, goot people, von and all, Come listen to my song: A few
remarks I have to make, Which vont be very long. ’Tis of our vessel
stout and goot, As ever yet was built of woot, Along the reef where
the breakers roar, De Wreckers on de Florida shore!
Key Tavernier’s our rendezvous; At anchor there we lie, And see the
vessels in the Gulf, Carelessly passing by. When night comes on we
dance and sing, Whilst the current some vessel is floating in; When
day-light comes, a ship’s on shore, Among de rocks where de breakers
roar.
When day-light dawns, we’re under weigh, And every sail is set, And
if the wind it should prove light, Why then, our sails we wet. To
gain her first each eager strives, To save de cargo and de people’s
lives, Amongst de rocks where de breakers roar, De Wreckers on de
Florida shore.
When we get ’longside, we find she’s bilged: We know vel vat to do,
Save de cargo dat we can, De sails and rigging too; Den down to Key
West we soon vill go, When quickly our salvage we shall know; When
every ting it is fairly sold, Our money down to us it is told.
Den one week’s cruize we’ll have on shore, Before we do sail again,
And drink success to de sailor lads Dat are ploughing of de main.
And when you are passing by dis way, On the Florida Reef should you
chance to stray, Why, we will come to you on de shore, Amongst de
rocks where de breakers roar.
Great emphasis was laid upon particular words by the singer, who
had a broad German accent. Between the verses he played a symphony,
remarking, “Gentlemens, I makes dat myself.” The chorus was trolled
by twenty or thirty voices, which, in the stillness of the night,
produced no unpleasant effect.
THE MALLARD.
_ANAS BOSCHAS_, LINN.
PLATE CCXXI. MALES AND FEMALES.
Although it is commonly believed that the Mallard is found abundantly
everywhere in the United States, I have received sufficient proof
to the contrary. If authors had acknowledged that they state so on
report, or had said that in the tame state the bird is common, I
should not have blamed them. According to my observation, and I may
be allowed to say that I have had good opportunities, this valuable
species is extremely rare in the wild state, in the neighbourhood of
Boston in Massachusetts; and in this assertion, I am supported by my
talented and amiable friend Mr NUTTALL, who has resided there for many
years. Farther eastward, this bird is so rare that it is scarcely
known, and not one was seen by myself or my party beyond Portland
in Maine. On the western coast of Labrador none of the inhabitants
that we conversed with had ever seen the Mallard, and in Newfoundland
the people were equally unacquainted with it, the species being in
those countries replaced by the Black Duck, _Anas fusca_. From New
York southward, the Mallards become more plentiful, and numbers of
them are seen in the markets of Philadelphia, Baltimore, Richmond
in Virginia, and other towns. Although they are very abundant in the
Carolinas and Floridas, as well as in Lower Louisiana, they are much
more so in the Western Country. The reason of this is merely that the
Mallard, unlike the sea ducks, is rarely seen on salt water, and that
its course from the countries where it chiefly breeds is across the
interior of the continent. From our great lakes, they spread along
the streams, betake themselves to the ponds, wet meadows, submersed
savannahs, and inland swamps, and are even found in the thick beech
woods, in early autumn, and indeed long before the males have acquired
the dark green colour of the head. Many of them proceed beyond the
limits of the United States.
It would be curious to know when this species was first domesticated;
but, Reader, the solution of such a question is a task on which I shall
not venture. In the domestic state every body knows the Mallard. When
young it affords excellent food, and when old lays eggs. A bed made
of its feathers is far preferable to the damp earth of the camp of
an American woodsman, or the plank on which the trained soldier lays
his wearied limbs at night. You may find many other particulars if
you consult in chronological order all the compilers from ALDROVANDUS
to the present day.
Be not startled, good Reader, when I tell you that many of these ducks
are bred in the lakes near the Mississippi, nay even in some of the
small ponds in the low lands or bottoms of the States of Kentucky,
Indiana and Illinois; for in many parts of those districts I have
surprised the females on their eggs, have caught the young when their
mother was cautiously and with anxiety leading them for greater safety
to some stream, and have shot many a fat one before the poor thing
could fly, and when it was so plump, tender, and juicy, that I doubt
much whether, you, like myself, should not much prefer them to the
famed Canvass-backed Duck.
Look at that Mallard as he floats on the lake; see his elevated head
glittering with emerald-green, his amber eyes glancing in the light!
Even at this distance, he has marked you, and suspects that you bear
no good will towards him, for he sees that you have a gun, and he
has many a time been frightened by its report, or that of some other.
The wary bird draws his feet under his body, springs upon them, opens
his wings, and with loud quacks bids you farewell.
Now another is before you, on the margin of that purling streamlet.
How brisk are all his motions compared with those of his brethren
that waddle across your poultry-yard! how much more graceful in form
and neat in apparel! The duck at home is the descendant of a race
of slaves, and has lost his native spirit: his wings have been so
little used that they can hardly raise him from the ground. But the
free-born, the untamed duck of the swamps,—see how he springs on
wing, and hies away over the woods.
The Mallards generally arrive in Kentucky and other parts of the
Western Country, from the middle of September to the first of October,
or as soon as the acorns and beech-nuts are fully ripe. In a few
days they are to be found in all the ponds that are covered with
seed-bearing grasses. Some flocks, which appear to be guided by an
experienced leader, come directly down on the water with a rustling
sound of their wings that can be compared only to the noise produced
by an Eagle in the act of stooping upon its prey, while other flocks,
as if they felt uneasy respecting the safety of the place, sweep
around and above it several times in perfect silence, before they
alight. In either case, the birds immediately bathe themselves, beat
their bodies with their wings, dive by short plunges, and cut so
many capers that you might imagine them to be stark mad. The fact,
however, seems to be, that all this alacrity and gaiety only shews
the necessity they feel of clearing themselves of the insects about
their plumage, as well as the pleasure they experience on finding
themselves in a milder climate, with abundance of food around them,
after a hard journey of perhaps a day and a night. They wash themselves
and arrange their dress, before commencing their meal; and in this
other travellers would do well to imitate them.