AUDUBON, John James (1785 - 1851), Long-tailed Duck, (Plate 312), 1827–1838

JOHN JAMES AUDUBON (1785 - 1851)

Long-tailed Duck, Plate 312

From the Birds of America

Aquatint engraving with original hand color

London: Robert Havell, 1827–1838

Paper size: 24 x 35 in.

Owing to their reiterated cries these birds are named “‚“Noisy Ducks;”‚“but they have various appellations, among others those of “‚“Old Wives,”‚“and “‚“Old Squaws.”‚“Although like all sea-ducks, “‚“Old Wife”‚“swims deeply, it moves with a grace and celerity, which, if not superior to those of any of its tribe, are at least equal; and when the weather is rough, and the waters agitated, it raises its tail in the same manner as the Ruddy Duck and Pintail. When advancing in smooth water, its speed is such as to cause a considerable swell before it, such as sea-faring persons usually call a “‚“bone.”‚“Like all others of its tribe, it also prefers swimming against both wind and tide, as then it can sooner take wing if necessary. In calm and pleasant weather...it is fond of throwing its body almost over, and of pluming itself in that position.