long before it can approach her. The top of the
dome-shaped dwellings of the musk-rat, or musquash (_Fibre zibethicus_),
is often selected by the swan for her nest. These curious little houses
are usually in the midst of impenetrable swamps: they are only occupied
by their builders during the winter; and as they are deserted by them in
early spring, they are therefore quite at the service of the swan for
the `balance of the season.' The bird makes a large cavity in the top,
and lines it with such reeds and grass as may be found near the spot.

"The hooper lays from six to eight eggs, and sits upon them for a period
of six weeks, when the cygnets come forth covered with a thick down of a
bluish-grey colour. While sitting upon her eggs, the swan is
exceedingly watchful and shy. She `faces' towards the point whence she
most apprehends danger. When the weather is severe, and the wind cold
and keen, she changes into that position which is most comfortable. If
her nest be upon a promontory instead of an island, she usually sits
with her head to the land, as she feels secure that no enemy will reach
her from the waterside. From the land she has not only man to `look
out' for, but the wolverene (_Gulo luscus_), the lynx (_Felis
Canadensis_), foxes, and wolves.

"The Indians often snare the swan upon her nest. Of course the snare--a
running noose made from the intestines of the deer--is set in her
absence. It is placed upon the side by which she enters, as these birds
enter and leave the nest upon opposite sides. The snare must be
arranged with great care, and with _clean hands_; and the Indians always
take the precaution to wash their hands before setting it, else the
swans, whose sense of smell is very acute, will perceive the presence of
danger, and will not only keep away for a time, but sometimes desert the
eggs altogether. There are many other birds that have a similar habit.

"So much for the `hooper,'" continued Lucien; "now for the `trumpeter.'
This is the largest of the American swans, being found to measure
seventy inches in length. Its specific name `trumpeter' (Cygnus
_buccinator_) is given to it on account of its note, which resembles the
sound of a French horn, or trumpet, played at a distance. The bird is
white, with black bill and feet, and has also a reddish orange or copper
tinge upon the crown and neck; but it wants the yellow spot between the
split of the mandibles and the eye. It is easily