Page:Natural History, Birds.djvu/294

Rh green, but the base of the former as well as the forehead-shield, and that part of the leg just above the heel, are bright scarlet.



The Moor-hen may often be seen swimming in the open water of rivers and ponds; which it does with much grace and swiftness, with a nodding motion of the head; it frequently picks floating seeds, shells, or insects, from the surface. It is very wary, and on the approach of an intruder it either dives, or rising just high enough to flap its wings, flutters along the surface with much plashing, to gain the nearest cover. In the former case, it swims a long way beneath the surface before it rises again, aiding its progress by striking vigorously not only with the feet, but also with the short and hollow wings, which are expanded.