FOOTNOTES:

Juniper-berries.

Juniper-berries[233]are frequently found near the new settlement at Churchill River, but by no means in such plenty as in the more Southern and interior parts of the country. The bush they grew on is so similar to the creeping pine, that one half of the Company's servants residing in Hudson's Bay do not know one from the other. Like the Gooseberry bushes in those parts, the fruit is always most plentiful on the under side of the branches. They are not much esteemed either by the Indians or English, so that the few that are made use of are generally infused in brandy, by way of making a cordial, which is far from unpleasant.[CP]

Strawberries.

Strawberries,[CQ][234]and those of a considerable size and excellent flavour, are found as far North as Churchill River; and what is most remarkable, they are frequently known to be more plentiful in such places as have formerly been set on fire. This is not peculiar to the Strawberry, but it is well known that in the interior parts of the country, as well as at Albany and Moose Forts, that after {453} the ground, or more properly the under-wood and moss, have been set on fire, that Raspberry-bushes and Hips have shot up in great numbers on spots where nothing of the kind had ever been seen before. This is a phænomenon that is not easily accounted for; but it is more than probable that Nature wanted some assistance, and the moss being all burnt away, not only admits the sun to act with more power, but the heat of the fire must, in some measure, loosen the texture of the soil, so as to admit the plants to shoot up, after having been deep-rooted for many years without being able to force their way to the surface.

Besides the Berries already mentioned, there are three others found as far North as Churchill; namely, what the Indians call the Eye-berry, and the other two are termed Blue-berry and Partridge-berry by the English.

Eye-berry.

TheEye-berry[235]grows much in the same manner as the Strawberry, and though smaller, is infinitely superior in flavour. This berry is found in various situations; but near Churchill River they are most plentiful in small hollows among the rocks, which are situated some distance from the woods; but they are never known to grow in swampy ground, and I never saw them so plentiful in any part of Hudson's Bay as about Churchill River.

Blue-berry.

{454} TheBlue-berry[236]is about the size of a Hurtle-berry, and grows on bushes which rise to eighteen inches or two feet, but in general are much lower. They are seldom ripe till September, at which time the leaves turn to a beautiful red; and the fruit, though small, have as fine a bloom as any plum, and are much esteemed for the pleasantness of their flavour.

Partridge-berry.

ThePartridge-berry[237]is nearly as large as the Cranberry imported from Newfoundland, and though of a beautiful transparent red, yet has a disagreeable taste. These berries are seldom taken, either by the Indians or English; and many of the latter call them Poison-berries, but several birds are fond of them. They grow close to the ground, like the Cranberry, and the plant that produces them is not very unlike small sage, either in shape or colour, but has none of its virtues.

I had nearly forgotten another species of Berry,[238]which is found on the dry ridges at Churchill in considerable numbers. In size and colour they much resemble the Red Curran, and grow on bushes so much like the Creeping Willow, that people of little observation scarcely know the difference; particularly as all the fruit is on the under-side of the branches, and entirely hid by the leaves. I never knew this Berry eaten but by a frolicksome Indian girl; and as it had no ill effect, it is a proof it is {455} not unwholesome, though exceedingly unpleasant to the palate, and not much less so to the smell.

Hips.

Hips[239]of a small size, though but few in number, are also found on the banks of Churchill River, at some distance from the sea. But in the interior parts of the country they are frequently found in such vast quantities, that at a distance they make the spots they grow on appear perfectly red. In the interior parts of Hudson's Bay they are as large as any I ever remember to have seen, and when ripe, have a most delightful bloom; but at that season there is scarcely one in ten which has not a worm in it; and they frequently act as a strong purgative.

Withrespect to the smaller productions of the vegetable world, I am obliged to be in a great measure silent, as the nature of my various occupations during my residence in this country gave me little leisure, and being unacquainted with botany, I viewed with inattention things that were not of immediate use: the few which follow are all that particularly engaged my attention.

Wish-a-ca-pucca.

TheWish-a-ca-pucca,[240]which grows in most parts of this country, is said by some Authors to have great medical virtues, applied, either inwardly as an alterative, or outwardly dried and pulverised, to old sores and gangrenes. The truth of this I much doubt, and could {456} never think it had the least medical quality. It is, however, much used by the lower class of the Company's servants as tea; and by some is thought very pleasant. But the flower is by far the most delicate, and if gathered at a proper time, and carefully dried in the shade, will retain its flavour for many years, and make a far more pleasant beverage than the leaves. There are several species of this plant, of which some of the leaves are nearly as large as that of the Creeping Willow, while others are as small and narrow as that of the Rosemary, and much resembles it in colour; but all the species have the same smell and flavour.

Jackashey-puck.

Jackashey-puck.[241]This herb much resembles Creeping Box; and is only used, either by the Indians or English, to mix with tobacco, which makes it smoke mild and pleasant; and would, I am persuaded, be very acceptable to many smokers in England.

Moss.

Mossof various sorts and colours is plentiful enough in most parts of this country, and is what the deer usually feed on.

Grass.

Grassof several kinds is also found in those parts, and some of it amazingly rapid of growth, particularly that which is there called Rye-grass, and which, in our short Summer at Churchill, frequently grows to the height {457} of three feet. Another species of Grass, which is produced in marshes, and on the margins of lakes, ponds, and rivers, is particularly adapted for the support of the multitudes of the feathered creation which resort to those parts in Summer. The Marsh Grass at Churchill is of that peculiar nature, that where it is mowed one year, no crop can be procured the next Summer; whereas at York Fort, though the climate is not very different, they can get two crops, or harvests, from the same spot in one Summer. Vetches are plentiful in some parts as far North as Churchill River; and Burrage, Sorrel, and Coltsfoot, may be ranked among the useful plants. Dandelion is also plentiful at Churchill, and makes an early salad, long before any thing can be produced in the gardens.

In fact, notwithstanding the length of the Winter, the severity of the cold, and the great scarcity of vegetables at this Northern settlement, by proper attention to cleanliness, and keeping the people at reasonable exercise, I never had one man under me who had the least symptoms of the scurvy; whereas at York Fort, Albany, and Moose River, there were almost annual complaints that one half of the people were rendered incapable of duty by that dreadful disorder.

I do not wish to lay claim to any merit on this occasion, but I cannot help observing that, during ten years I had {458} the command at Churchill River, only two men died of that distemper, though my complement at times amounted in number to fifty-three.

Trees.

The Forest Trees that grow on this inhospitable spot are very few indeed; Pine,[242]Juniper,[243]small scraggy Poplar,[244]Creeping Birch,[245]and Dwarf Willows,[246]compose the whole catalogue. Farther Westward the Birch Tree[247]is very plentiful; and in the Athapuscow country, the Pines, Larch, Poplar, and Birch, grow to a great size; the Alder[248]is also found there.

FOOTNOTES:[124]The notes to this chapter within brackets are by Mr. Edward A. Preble of the United States Biological Survey.[125]See pages255,164,235, and254.[126]This is the so-called elk or wapiti,Cervus canadensisErx., formerly abundant from the west side of Lake Winnipeg north-westward to the Peace River region.[127]The wolves of the wooded country belong to the species to which the nameCanis occidentalisof Richardson seems applicable; those of the Barren Grounds, which are frequently white, may be considered as subspecifically separable under the nameCanis o. albusSabine (type locality, Fort Enterprise, North-West Territory).[128]Vulpes lagopus innuitusMerriam. This name is applicable to the Arctic foxes of the American mainland. They are larger than and differ in cranial characters from the typical animal of Lapland.[129]See Pennant, "Arct. Zool.," i. p. 43, 1784, where this statement is credited to Mr. Graham. While Hearne is probably right about the foxes appearing every season, yet at intervals of a few years there is an incursion of more than ordinary numbers, and on these occasions the species reaches farther south than usual.[130]The Canada Lynx,Lynx canadensisKerr, is of general distribution throughout the wooded country, and occasionally in summer extends its wanderings for a short distance into the Barren Grounds.[131]Thalarctos maritimus(Phipps). This species, of circumpolar distribution, keeps closely to the sea-coasts, and reaches the southern extremity of Hudson Bay, probably the most southern point of its present distribution.[BY]It is rather singular that the Polar Bears are seldom found on the land during the Winter, on which account it is supposed they go out on the ice, and keep near the edge of the water during that season, while the females that are pregnant seek shelter at the skirts of the woods, and dig themselves dens in the deepest drifts of snow they can find, where they remain in a state of inactivity, and without food, from the latter end of December or January, till the latter end of March; at which time they leave their dens, and bend their course towards the sea with their cubs; which, in general, are two in number. Notwithstanding the great magnitude of those animals when full grown, yet their young are not larger than rabbits, and when they leave their dens, in March, I have frequently seen them not larger than a white fox, and their steps on the snow not bigger than a crown-piece, when those of their dam measure near fifteen inches long and nine inches broad. They propagate when young, or at least before they are half-grown; for I have killed young females not larger than a London calf, with milk in their teats; whereas some of the full grown ones are heavier than the largest of our common oxen. Indeed I was once at the killing of one, when one of its hind feet being cut off at the ankle, weighed fifty-four pounds. The males have a bone in theirpenis, as a dog has, and of course unite in copulation; but the time of their courtship is, I believe, not exactly known: probably it may be in July or August, for at those times I have often been at the killing of them, when the males were so attached to their mistresses, that after the female was killed, the male would put his two fore-paws over, and suffer himself to be shot before he would quit her. I have frequently seen and killed those animals near twelve leagues from the land; but as the Fall of the year advances, they are taught by instinct to seek the shore. Though such a tremendous animal, they are very shy of coming near a man; but when closely pursued in the water, they frequently attack the boat, seize the oars, and wrest them from the hands of the strongest man, seeming desirous to get on board; but the people on those occasions are always provided with fire-arms and hatchets, to prevent such an unwelcome visit. The flesh of this animal, when killed in Winter, (if not too old,) is far from being unpleasant eating; and the young cubs, in the Spring, are rather delicate than otherwise. The teats of the female are only two in number, and are placed between the fore-legs. The best Drawing of this Animal I have seen, is that done by Mr. Webber, among the Plates of Cook's last Voyage.[132]Ursus americanusPallas. This species inhabits all the region west of Hudson Bay nearly or quite to the limit of trees, though it is rare near the border of the woods.[BZ]The insects here spoken of are of two kinds; the one is nearly black, its skin hard like a beetle, and not very unlike a grasshopper, and darts through the water with great ease, and with some degree of velocity. The other sort is brown, has wings, and is as soft as the common cleg-fly. The latter are the most numerous; and in some of the lakes such quantities of them are forced into the bays in gales of wind, and there pressed together in such multitudes, that they are killed, and remain there a great nuisance; for I have several times, in my inland voyages from York Fort, found it scarcely possible to land in some of those bays for the intolerable stench of those insects, which in some places were lying in putrid masses to the depth of two or three feet. It is more than probable, that the Bears occasionally feed on these dead insects.[133]The insects here referred to are mainly May-flies (Ephemeridæ), which are washed up along the shores of the lakes in this region in incredible quantities, and are eaten by the bears, as Hearne says.[CA]It is common for the Southern Indians to tame and domesticate the young cubs; and they are frequently taken so young that they cannot eat. On those occasions the Indians oblige their wives who have milk in their breasts to suckle them. And one of the Company's servants, whose name is Isaac Batt, willing to be as great a brute as his Indian companions, absolutely forced one of his wives, who had recently lost her infant, to suckle a young Bear.[134]By brown bears, Hearne probably refers to the brown or cinnamon phase of the black bear. This colour phase, which is often spoken of as if constituting a distinct species, is rare near the northern border of the range of the animal.[135]Ursus richardsoniSwainson. Seeante, p. 181.[136]Gulo luscus(Linn.). This powerful freebooter ranges north to the extremity of the continent, and has been detected in a few instances on the islands of the Arctic Sea.[CB]Mr. Graham says they take their lodging in the clefts of rocks, or in hollow trees. The former I acknowledge, but I believe that neither Mr. Graham nor any of the Company's servants ever saw an instance of the latter. In fact, during all my travels in the interior parts of Hudson's Bay, I never saw a hollow tree that was capable of affording shelter to any larger animal than martins, jackashes, or wejacks; much less the quiquehatch or Bear, as some have asserted.[This statement is from Pennant, "Arct. Zool.," i. p. 68, 1784, and given on the authority of Mr. Graham.][137]Lutra canadensis(Schreber). This valuable fur-bearer is found throughout the wooded country, but is rare near the borders of the forest.[CC]The Otter is very fond of play; and one of their favourite pastimes is, to get on a high ridge of snow, bend their fore-feet backward, and slide down the side of it, sometimes to the distance of twenty yards.[138]Lutreola vison lacustris(Preble, North Am. Fauna, No. 22, p. 66, 1902). This race differs from the typical race of Eastern Canada in its larger size and some minor cranial characters. It inhabits the region west of Hudson Bay, north to the limit of trees.[139]Mustela pennantiErxleben. As far as known, this fur-bearer reaches its northern limit on the coast of Hudson Bay near Cape Tatnam.[CD]Mr. Graham asserts that this animal frequents the banks of creeks, and feeds on fish; but these are by no means their usual haunts. I have, however, no doubt, but when they find fish on the land, that they may eat it, like other carnivorous animals; but they are as shy of taking the water as a domestic cat. They climb trees, and catch partridges, mice, and rabbits, with as much ease as a martin. They are easily tamed and domesticated, are very fond of tea-leaves, have a pleasant musky smell, and are very playful.[This statement is apparently from Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," i. p. 82, 1784), who gives Mr. Graham as authority.][140]The Skunk,Mephitis mephitis(Schreber), has not been detected on the coast of Hudson Bay north of Fort Albany, but farther westward it reaches Oxford House and Great Slave Lake. The animal of the Cumberland House region is the Northern Plains Skunk,Mephitis hudsonicaRichardson.[141]Mustela americana abieticolaPreble. A much larger race than typicalM. americanaof Eastern Canada is the form inhabiting the country west of Hudson Bay.[142]The common weasel of the wooded parts of the Hudson Bay region isPutorius richardsoni(Bonaparte). North of the tree-limit is found a larger species,P. arcticusMerriam, which ranges north of the continent over the Arctic islands. Both species turn white in winter and are then known as ermine.[143]Fiber zibethicus hudsoniusPreble (North Am. Fauna, No. 22, p. 53, 1902; type locality, Fort Churchill). This race, which differs from the typical animal of Eastern Canada in smaller size and in cranial characters, inhabits the region west of Hudson Bay, north to the limit of trees.[144]Acorus calamusLinn. A widely diffused herb abundant in the southern part of the Hudson Bay region. The Crees are said to style itWachusk mitsu-in, i.e. that which the musk-rats eat.[145]Erethizon dorsatum(Linn.). In Hearne's time the porcupine was rather common throughout the southern part of the Hudson Bay region, and ranged nearly or quite to the limit of trees. Hearne's journey to the Coppermine River was mainly through the Barren Grounds, or near the edge of the timber, where of course the animal was scarce, which accounts for the small number seen by him.Now, throughout the region, constant persecution has reduced this species almost to the verge of extinction, so that a person may travel hundreds of miles through its range without encountering one.[146]"Arctic Zool.," i. p. 110, 1784.[CE]This information was given to Mr. Pennant from the authority of Mr. Graham; but the before-mentioned account of seeing them killed in all stages of pregnancy, when no symptoms of that kind appeared, will, I hope, be sufficient to clear up that mistake.[147]By foxes of various colours, Hearne refers to the different colour-phases of the red fox,Vulpes fulvus(Desmarest). These are the cross-fox, in which there is a darkening of the colour, and a more or less plainly marked cross indicated on the back; the silver, in which the red tinge is nearly or wholly lost, the general colour being black, with many of the hairs showing a white subterminal zone; and the black, in which the white is absent, or very nearly so. In all these phases, now generally admitted to be varying degrees of melanism, the tip of the tail is white, as in the normal red phase. A perfect black fox is one of the most valuable furs known.[148]Lepus arcticus canusPreble. Arctic hares are still found regularly as far south as Fort Churchill, and in winter reach still farther south, while to the north-west they occupy suitable localities throughout the Barren Grounds.[149]Lepus americanus(Erxleben), based mainly on specimens from Churchill River and Severn River, which last place may be considered the type locality.[150]Sciurus hudsonicusErxleben. Common throughout the Hudson Bay region north to the tree-limit. The name was based on specimens from Hudson Bay, probably from the west coast, although no definite type locality has been assigned.[151]Citellus parryi(Richardson). This species at the time of Hearne's writing was undescribed, but was later characterised by Richardson (App. to Parry's Second Voyage, p. 316, 1827), from specimens taken at Five Hawser Bay, Melville Peninsula. It inhabits the Barren Grounds from Hudson Bay north-westward to the Mackenzie, and is represented by related and intergrading forms nearly throughout Alaska, and southward in the Rocky Mountains to the northern United States.[152]The shrew most often found in the beaver houses is the marsh shrew,Neosorex palustris(Rich.), whose aquatic habits admirably fit it for such situations. Two or three smaller shrews, less aquatic in habits, also inhabit the Hudson Bay region.[153]Dicrostonyx richardsoniMerriam. This lemming, which is closely related toD. hudsoniusof Labrador, was described from specimens taken at Fort Churchill, where it is abundant. Farther to the north it is represented by closely related forms whose ranges are among the most northerly of all land animals. Hearne's excellent account of this species has been confirmed in almost every particular by later observers.[154]Odobænus rosmarus(Linn.). This animal was formerly abundant in Hudson Bay, but is now far from common, and is confined to the northern and north-eastern parts.[155]Phoca vitulinaLinn. is one of the commonest seals about the Bay, while the ringed seal,Phoca hispidaSchreber, is perhaps equally abundant about its northern shores. The grey species mentioned is the bearded seal,Erignathus barbatus(Erxleben), which is abundant in most parts of Hudson Bay.[156]The narwhal,Monodon monocerosLinn., is still a rare inhabitant of Hudson Strait and the extreme northern part of the Bay.[CF]In the Fall of the year 1768, a fine rock cod was drove on shore in a high gale of wind, and was eaten at the Governor's table; Messrs. William Wales and Joseph Dymond, who went out to observe the transit of Venus which happened on the 3d of June 1769, partook of it; but I never heard of one being caught with a hook, nor ever saw an entire fish of that description in those parts: their jaw-bones are, however, frequently found on the shores.[The common cod,Gadus callariusLinn., enters Hudson Strait, and is economically important in Ungava Bay. An occasional one is reported in Hudson Bay, but whether or not the fish is abundant there is not known.][157]Balæna mysticetusLinn. This species, the principal object of pursuit by the northern whalers, was originally fairly common in the northern part of Hudson Bay, but is now rare there.[CG]I have heard that no Whale caught by our Greenland ships is called a Pay-fish; that is, that no emolument arises to the harpooner that strikes it; unless the longest blade of the bone, usually called Whale-bone, measures six feet; whereas those killed in Hudson's Bay seldom measured more than four feet and an half.[158]Delphinapterus catodon(Linn.). This toothed whale is still common in nearly all parts of Hudson Bay, and considerable numbers are taken by means of nets at Fort Churchill. The oil is exported and the meat utilized for food for dogs.[159]The "Salmon" here spoken of is evidently some form of the widely distributedSalvelinus alpinus(Linn.), several supposed forms of which have been described from different parts of Arctic North America. The ordinary method of taking it on the coast of Hudson Bay is by stretching a net between stakes at low tide at right angles to the shore. The net being immersed at high tide intercepts the fish, which apparently follow the line of the shore. When the tide falls the catch is of course easily retrieved.[160]Mallotus villosus(Müller). This is a kind of smelt of wide distribution in northern waters.[161]Apparently referring toMytilus edulis(Linn.), which is very abundant on the shore of Hudson Bay.[162]Hyas coarctatusLeach, occurs on the west coast of Hudson Bay. Probably other species inhabit its waters.[163]A common starfish on the west coast of Hudson Bay is a six-armed species,Asterias polaris(Müller and Troschel).[164]The common frog of the Hudson Bay region is the northern wood frog,Rana cantabrigensis latiremisCope, which is abundant north to the tree-limit. A smaller species,Chorophilus septentrionalisBoulenger, is abundant on the coast as far north at least as York Factory.[165]From Hearne's description of its habits he evidently refers to the white-headed eagle,Haliaetus leucocephalus alascanusTownsend, which is the commoner of the two species of that region. The golden eagle,Aquila chrysætos(Linn.), is rare near the Bay, but in places in the interior, where rocky ledges occur, is sometimes rather common.[166]The Sacre Falcon of Pennant is generally identified asFalco rusticolus gyrfalcoLinn.[167]Nyctea nyctea(Linn.). This beautiful owl is common throughout the region, breeding on the Barren Grounds, and in winter moving southward into the wooded country. Occasionally a pair will nest far south of the normal range.[168]The great horned owl,Bubo virginianus subarcticus(Hoy), found throughout the region north nearly to the limit of trees.[169]This is the hawk owl,Surnia ulula caparoch(Müller). It is fairly abundant throughout the region north to the limit of trees.[170]Corvus corax principalis(Ridgway). The raven is rare on the coast of Hudson Bay, but is rather common in the interior.[171]Perisoreus canadensis(Linn.). Very abundant throughout the region north to the limit of trees. It nests in late winter, laying three or four bluish-grey eggs spotted with brownish.[172]Besides the "Golden-winged Bird,"Colaptes auratus luteus(Bangs), which reaches the limit of trees, several other woodpeckers inhabit that region.[173]Referring to the pileated woodpecker,Phlœotomus pileatus abieticola(Bangs), which is found about the southern parts of Hudson Bay, and inland toward the south-west.[174]Hearne is mistaken here, as the golden-winged woodpecker is well known to leave the northern parts of its summer habitat for several months.[175]Bonasa umbellus togata(Linn.). Found about the southern shores of Hudson Bay, as far north as about 57°, and inland much farther north.[176]Pediœcetes phasianellus(Linn.). Hearne's remarks on its range in this region are well founded, and agree with what is known of its present distribution.[CH]This I assert from my own experience when at Cumberland House.[177]Canachites canadensis(Linn.). This grouse inhabits all the region west of Hudson Bay north nearly to the limit of trees, but is scarce near the northern border of its range.[178]Lagopus lagopus(Linn.) This beautiful ptarmigan is still abundant on the shores of Hudson Bay. It breeds abundantly throughout the Barren Grounds and in considerable numbers on the treeless areas which form an almost continuous fringe along the west coast of the Bay nearly to its southern extremity.[CI]Mr. Dragge observes, in his North West Passage, that when the partridges begin to change colour, the first brown feathers appear in the rump; but this is so far from being a general rule, that an experienced Hudsonian must smile at the idea. That Mr. Dragge never saw an instance of this kind I will not say, but when Nature deviates so far from its usual course, it is undoubtedly owing to some accident; and nothing is more likely than that the feathers of the bird Mr. Dragge had examined, had been struck off by a hawk; and as the usual season for changing their plumage was near, the Summer feathers supplied their place; for out of the many hundreds of thousands that I have seen killed, I never saw or heard of a similar instance.[179]Lagopus rupestris(Gmel.). This species, first described from specimens sent from Hudson Bay, is more northern in its range than the willow ptarmigan.[CJ]Besides the birds already mentioned, which form a constant dish at our tables in Hudson's Bay, during their respective seasons, Mr. Jérémie asserts, that during the time he was Governor at York Fort, the bustard was common. But since that Fort was delivered up to the English at the peace of Utrecht in 1713, none of the Company's servants have ever seen one of those birds: nor does it appear by all the Journals now in the possession of the Hudson's Bay Company, that any such bird was ever seen in the most Southern parts of the Bay, much less at York Fort, which is in the latitude 57° North; so that a capital error, or a wilful design to mislead, must have taken place. Indeed, his account of the country immediately where he resided, and the productions of it, are so erroneously stated as to deserve no notice. His colleague, De le Potries, asserts the existence of the bustard in those parts, and with an equal regard to truth.[This is explained by the fact that the early French writers referred to the Canada goose under the nameOutarde.][180]Ectopistes migratorius(Linn.). This short account of the habits is evidently founded on Hearne's experience with the species in the Cumberland House region, where at that time it was doubtless abundant. The present record for Fort Churchill, as well as other early notices of its occurrence at York Factory, probably represent the northward wandering of flocks after the breeding season.[181]Planesticus migratorius(Linn.). The American robin is rather common in the Hudson Bay region north to the tree-limit. At Fort Churchill, in late July 1900, I saw flocks composed of old birds and young just from the nests.[182]Pinicola enucleator leucura(Müller). Found throughout the region north to the limit of trees, but, as Hearne intimates, not abundant.[183]Plectrophenax nivalis(Linn.). This name was based on a Hudson Bay specimen. The bird is abundant throughout the region in migration, and breeds from the vicinity of Neville Bay (near lat. 62°), northward.[184]Zonotrichia leucophrys(Forster). First described from specimens taken at Severn River, Hudson Bay. An abundant species throughout the region north to the limit of trees.[185]Calcarius lapponica(Linn.). A common species, as Hearne says. It breeds from the tree-limit northward.[186]Apparently referring to the Redpoll,Acanthis linaria(Linn.), which is, of course, not closely related to the Lapland longspur.[187]Hearne apparently refers to the Shore Lark,Otocoris alpestris hoytiBishop, which breeds abundantly on the small barrens along the west coast of Hudson Bay as well as on the main area of the Barren Grounds.[188]Penthestes hudsonicus; first described by Forster from specimens taken at Severn River, Hudson Bay. It inhabits the region north to the limit of trees.[189]This account of the nesting habits seems to refer to the Barn Swallow,Hirundo erythrogastra(Bodd). I am not aware that this bird now nests at Fort Churchill, though it is not unlikely that it did so formerly. The cliffs in the vicinity would afford ideal natural nesting sites.[190]Here Hearne undoubtedly refers to the Bank Swallow,Riparia riparia(Linn.), which inhabits the region in myriads. As it nests only in banks of clay or sand its local abundance is dependent on their presence. The eggs are unspotted.[191]Grus americana(Linn.). Though specimens from Hudson Bay figured in the original description of this magnificent species, it was rare even in Hearne's time, and is now probably extirpated in that region.[192]The Brown Crane (Grus canadensis), was described by Linnæus from Hudson Bay specimens, and is still rather common on its marshy plains, and on the Barren Grounds.[193]The American Bittern,Botaurus lentiginosus(Montagu), is fairly common in the marshes about Hudson Bay north to the vicinity of York Factory.[194]The Esquimaux Curlew of Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," ii. p. 461, 1785) is really the Hudsonian Curlew,Numenius hudsonicus(Latham), and Hearne of course follows Pennant in this error. It is still a common species on the west coast of Hudson Bay. The smaller one, which is the real Eskimo Curlew,Numenius borealis(Forster), was formerly very abundant, but is now, unhappily, nearly or quite extinct.[195]Apparently the common Snipe,Gallinago delicata(Ord.).[196]The Hudsonian Godwit,Limosa hæmastica(Linn.). This name was based on the drawing of a specimen from Hudson Bay. It breeds in the marshes on the west coast of the Bay, probably nearly throughout its length.[197]The Spotted Godwit of Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," ii. p. 467, 1785) is the Greater Yellowlegs,Totanus melanoleucus(Gmel.).[198]Arenaria morinella(Linn.). The Turnstone is abundant along the west coast of Hudson Bay in migration, and doubtless breeds about its northern shores, though I am not aware that its nest has actually been discovered there.[CK]They exactly correspond with the bird described by Mr. Pennant, except that they are much longer.[199]Charadrius dominicusMüller. Formerly very abundant, as Hearne intimates, but now very much reduced in numbers. It breeds about the northern shores of Hudson Bay.[200]Cepphus mandti(Mandt). This Guillemot is abundant on Hudson Bay and the neighbouring waters to the northward.[201]Gavia immer(Brünn.). This is perhaps the least abundant of the Loons found on Hudson Bay, though common in the lakes of the interior.[202]Gavia adamsi(Gray). Hearne's statement that the bird has a white bill shows that he refers to the present species, though a Black-throated Loon,Gavia pacifica(Lawrence), is common there. Perhaps he confuses the two. At any rate,G. adamsiis abundant over much of the country traversed by him on his Coppermine journey, but I am not aware that it has been detected as far east as Hudson Bay.[203]Gavia stellata(Pontoppidan). Abundant in the lake-studded country bordering Hudson Bay.[204]Though in all probability several species are included under this heading, the commonest is the widely distributed Herring Gull,Larus argentatusPontoppidan. The "Grey Gull" following is undoubtedly the young of the same species.[205]Jaegers,Stercorarius, of which perhaps the commonest, and the one suggested by Hearne's description, isS. pomarinus. It is probable, however, that bothS. parasiticusandS. longicaudus(the former of which is the more abundant) also came under his observation.[206]Plainly referring to the Arctic Tern,Sterna paradisæaBrünn. An excessively abundant species on the west coast of Hudson Bay.[207]Pelecanus erythrorhynchosGmel., has been taken on Hudson Bay only as a rare straggler, but is abundant in the Cumberland House region.[CL]In the Fall of 1774, when I first settled at Cumberland House, the Indians imposed on me and my people very much, by selling us Pelican fat for the fat of the black bear. Our knowledge of the delicacy of the latter induced us to reserve this fat for particular purposes; but when we came to open the bladders, it was little superior to train oil, and was only eatable by a few of my crew, which at that time consisted only of eight Englishmen and two of the home Indians from York Fort.Cumberland House was the first inland settlement the Company made from Hudson's Fort; and though begun on so small a scale, yet upon it and Hudson's House, which is situated beyond it, upwards of seventy men were now employed.[208]Mergus serratorLinn. This species is still very abundant on the coast of Hudson Bay, as well as in the interior.[209]The smaller Swan isOlor columbianus(Ord.), formerly very abundant on Hudson Bay, and still occurring in some numbers during migrations. It breeds on the islands in the northern parts of the Bay, and in other parts of the far North.The larger Whooping Swan,Olor buccinator(Richardson), formerly bred about the southern part of the Hudson Bay region, and also far northward. In the wholesale destruction of these magnificent birds, this species has suffered most.[CM]Mr. Pennant, in treating of the Whistling Swan, takes notice of the formation of the Windpipe; but on examination, the windpipes of both the species which frequent Hudson's Bay are found to be exactly alike, though their note is quite different. The breast-bone of this bird is different from any other I have seen; for instead of being sharp and solid, like that of a goose, it is broad and hollow. Into this cavity the windpipe passes from the valve, and reaching quite down to the abdomen, returns into the chest, and joins the lungs. Neither of the species of Swan that frequent Hudson's Bay are mute: but the note of the larger is much louder and harsher than that of the smaller.[210]Branta canadensis(Linn.). This large goose is the earliest to arrive in spring, and is the most southern breeder, nesting throughout the wooded country.[211]Branta canadensis hutchinsi(Richardson). This smaller form of the Canada Goose was named in honour of Thomas Hutchins, a Hudson's Bay Company officer who made natural history collections on Hudson Bay, and was the first to call attention to this race. It breeds on the Barren Grounds.[212]Chen hyperboreus nivalis(Forster). This larger form ofC. hyperboreuswas first described from Severn River specimens. Though much reduced in numbers, it still breeds about the northern part of Hudson Bay, and is an important food species in the region.[213]Chen cærulescens(Linn.). First described from a Hudson Bay specimen. According to the natives it breeds in the interior of northern Ungava; west of Hudson Bay, it is known only as a straggler. It winters in the Mississippi valley and on the Atlantic coast.[214]This is the first account ofChen rossi, formally described by Cassin in 1861 from specimens taken on Great Slave Lake. It is almost unknown on Hudson Bay, but is abundant in migrations about Great Slave and Athabaska lakes. It breeds somewhere to the northward of this region, but its summer home is unknown.[CN]Mr. Moses Norton.[215]Anser albifrons gambeliHartl. An inhabitant of the west coast of Hudson Bay, but more common in the Mackenzie valley.[216]Probably referring, as Hearne suggests, to abnormally large and perhaps barren individuals of the Canada Goose (Branta canadensis).[217]Branta bernicla glaucogastra(Brehm). Still occurring in some numbers along the west coast of Hudson Bay, in migrations, and breeding about its northern shores.[218]BothSomateria mollissima borealis(Brehm), andS. dresseriSharpe, occur about the north-west coast of Hudson Bay in summer, and doubtless both breed there. The King Eider also,S. spectabilis(Linn.), migrates down the coast, but probably breeds farther to the north.[219]The Bean Goose,Anser fabalis(Latham), is of very doubtful occurrence in the Hudson Bay region.[CO]It is, however, no less true, that the late Mr. Humphry Martin, many years Governor of Albany Fort, sent home several hundred specimens of animals and plants to complete that collection; but by some mistake, nothing of the kind was placed to the credit of his account. Even my respected friend Mr. Pennant, who with a candour that does him honour, has so generously acknowledged his obligations to all to whom he thought he was indebted for information when he was writing his Arctic Zoology, (see the Advertisement,) has not mentioned his name; but I am fully persuaded that it entirely proceeded from a want of knowing the person; and as Mr. Hutchins succeeded him at Albany in the year 1774, every thing that has been sent over from that part has been placed to his account.[220]Somateria spectabilis(Linn.).[221]ProbablyAnas rubripesBrewster.[222]Anas platyrhynchosLinn.[223]Dafila acuta(Linn.).[224]Mareca americana(Gmel.).[225]Nettion carolinense(Gmel.).[226]Mareca americana(Gmel.). The American Widgeon occurs on the west coast of Hudson Bay north to the tree-limit, but is not common there.[227]The Common Teal of the west coast of Hudson Bay isNettion carolinense(Gmel.), which occurs in numbers well into the Barren Grounds. The Blue-winged Teal,Querquedula discors(Linn.), has been taken there, but is excessively rare.[228]Ribes oxyacanthoidesLinn. A species of very wide distribution in the north. It is usually common about the trading posts.[229]Vaccinium vitisidæaLinn. An abundant species; reaches its greatest perfection near the northern border of the forest.[230]Empetrum nigrumLinn. The crowberry is very abundant about Fort Churchill and northward.[231]Rubus chamæmorusLinn. The cloudberry or baked-apple berry is abundant throughout the country treated by Hearne.[232]The northern red currant,Ribes rubrumLinn., and the black currant,Ribes hudsonianumRichardson, are species of wide distribution in the north.[233]Apparently Hearne refers toJuniperus nanaWilld., the dwarf juniper, since Richardson gives the same Indian name as applied by the Crees to this shrub. Granting this, Hearne's creeping pine isJuniperus sabinaLinn., shrubby red cedar. Both species extend northward to the tree-limit.[CP]The Indians call the Juniper-berry Caw-caw-cue-minick, or the Crowberry.[CQ]The Oteagh-minick of the Indians, is so called, because it in some measure resembles a heart.[234]ProbablyFragaria canadensisMichx.[235]ProbablyRubus arcticusLinn. A pretty little plant, similar in distribution to the cloudberry.[236]Vaccinium uliginosumLinn. A low blueberry of wide distribution. The fruit is excellent.[237]ProbablyComandra lividaRich.[238]Evidently, from his description, Hearne here refers to the Alpine bearberry,Arctous alpina(Linn.). It is abundant throughout the region.[239]Apparently referring to the common rose of the region,Rosa acicularisLindl. An abundant and very beautiful species.[240]Hearne refers here to the two species ofLedum. L. grœnlandicumŒder is the broad-leaved sort, generally distributed through the wooded country, and extending a little into the Barren Grounds.L. palustreLinn. is a smaller narrow-leaved species, which overlaps the range of the larger sort, and extends much farther north.[241]This refers to the common bearberry,Arctostaphylos uva-ursi(Linn.). Its leaves are smoked both by the Indians and the Eskimo, and also by the white residents.[242]Picea alba(Ait.) andP. mariana(Mill.).[243]Larix laricina(Du Roi).[244]Populus balsamiferaLinn., andP. tremuloidesMichx.[245]Betula nanaLinn.[246]A number of dwarf willows, includingSalix anglorumCham.,S. phylicifoliaLinn., andS. reticulataLinn., grow on the coast of Hudson Bay to the northward of Fort Churchill.[247]Betula papyriferaMarsh, from whose bark the Indians make their canoes.[248]The common alder of the interior isAlnus alnobetula(Ehrh.).

[124]The notes to this chapter within brackets are by Mr. Edward A. Preble of the United States Biological Survey.

[125]See pages255,164,235, and254.

[126]This is the so-called elk or wapiti,Cervus canadensisErx., formerly abundant from the west side of Lake Winnipeg north-westward to the Peace River region.

[127]The wolves of the wooded country belong to the species to which the nameCanis occidentalisof Richardson seems applicable; those of the Barren Grounds, which are frequently white, may be considered as subspecifically separable under the nameCanis o. albusSabine (type locality, Fort Enterprise, North-West Territory).

[128]Vulpes lagopus innuitusMerriam. This name is applicable to the Arctic foxes of the American mainland. They are larger than and differ in cranial characters from the typical animal of Lapland.

[129]See Pennant, "Arct. Zool.," i. p. 43, 1784, where this statement is credited to Mr. Graham. While Hearne is probably right about the foxes appearing every season, yet at intervals of a few years there is an incursion of more than ordinary numbers, and on these occasions the species reaches farther south than usual.

[130]The Canada Lynx,Lynx canadensisKerr, is of general distribution throughout the wooded country, and occasionally in summer extends its wanderings for a short distance into the Barren Grounds.

[131]Thalarctos maritimus(Phipps). This species, of circumpolar distribution, keeps closely to the sea-coasts, and reaches the southern extremity of Hudson Bay, probably the most southern point of its present distribution.

[BY]It is rather singular that the Polar Bears are seldom found on the land during the Winter, on which account it is supposed they go out on the ice, and keep near the edge of the water during that season, while the females that are pregnant seek shelter at the skirts of the woods, and dig themselves dens in the deepest drifts of snow they can find, where they remain in a state of inactivity, and without food, from the latter end of December or January, till the latter end of March; at which time they leave their dens, and bend their course towards the sea with their cubs; which, in general, are two in number. Notwithstanding the great magnitude of those animals when full grown, yet their young are not larger than rabbits, and when they leave their dens, in March, I have frequently seen them not larger than a white fox, and their steps on the snow not bigger than a crown-piece, when those of their dam measure near fifteen inches long and nine inches broad. They propagate when young, or at least before they are half-grown; for I have killed young females not larger than a London calf, with milk in their teats; whereas some of the full grown ones are heavier than the largest of our common oxen. Indeed I was once at the killing of one, when one of its hind feet being cut off at the ankle, weighed fifty-four pounds. The males have a bone in theirpenis, as a dog has, and of course unite in copulation; but the time of their courtship is, I believe, not exactly known: probably it may be in July or August, for at those times I have often been at the killing of them, when the males were so attached to their mistresses, that after the female was killed, the male would put his two fore-paws over, and suffer himself to be shot before he would quit her. I have frequently seen and killed those animals near twelve leagues from the land; but as the Fall of the year advances, they are taught by instinct to seek the shore. Though such a tremendous animal, they are very shy of coming near a man; but when closely pursued in the water, they frequently attack the boat, seize the oars, and wrest them from the hands of the strongest man, seeming desirous to get on board; but the people on those occasions are always provided with fire-arms and hatchets, to prevent such an unwelcome visit. The flesh of this animal, when killed in Winter, (if not too old,) is far from being unpleasant eating; and the young cubs, in the Spring, are rather delicate than otherwise. The teats of the female are only two in number, and are placed between the fore-legs. The best Drawing of this Animal I have seen, is that done by Mr. Webber, among the Plates of Cook's last Voyage.

[132]Ursus americanusPallas. This species inhabits all the region west of Hudson Bay nearly or quite to the limit of trees, though it is rare near the border of the woods.

[BZ]The insects here spoken of are of two kinds; the one is nearly black, its skin hard like a beetle, and not very unlike a grasshopper, and darts through the water with great ease, and with some degree of velocity. The other sort is brown, has wings, and is as soft as the common cleg-fly. The latter are the most numerous; and in some of the lakes such quantities of them are forced into the bays in gales of wind, and there pressed together in such multitudes, that they are killed, and remain there a great nuisance; for I have several times, in my inland voyages from York Fort, found it scarcely possible to land in some of those bays for the intolerable stench of those insects, which in some places were lying in putrid masses to the depth of two or three feet. It is more than probable, that the Bears occasionally feed on these dead insects.

[133]The insects here referred to are mainly May-flies (Ephemeridæ), which are washed up along the shores of the lakes in this region in incredible quantities, and are eaten by the bears, as Hearne says.

[CA]It is common for the Southern Indians to tame and domesticate the young cubs; and they are frequently taken so young that they cannot eat. On those occasions the Indians oblige their wives who have milk in their breasts to suckle them. And one of the Company's servants, whose name is Isaac Batt, willing to be as great a brute as his Indian companions, absolutely forced one of his wives, who had recently lost her infant, to suckle a young Bear.

[134]By brown bears, Hearne probably refers to the brown or cinnamon phase of the black bear. This colour phase, which is often spoken of as if constituting a distinct species, is rare near the northern border of the range of the animal.

[135]Ursus richardsoniSwainson. Seeante, p. 181.

[136]Gulo luscus(Linn.). This powerful freebooter ranges north to the extremity of the continent, and has been detected in a few instances on the islands of the Arctic Sea.

[CB]Mr. Graham says they take their lodging in the clefts of rocks, or in hollow trees. The former I acknowledge, but I believe that neither Mr. Graham nor any of the Company's servants ever saw an instance of the latter. In fact, during all my travels in the interior parts of Hudson's Bay, I never saw a hollow tree that was capable of affording shelter to any larger animal than martins, jackashes, or wejacks; much less the quiquehatch or Bear, as some have asserted.[This statement is from Pennant, "Arct. Zool.," i. p. 68, 1784, and given on the authority of Mr. Graham.]

[This statement is from Pennant, "Arct. Zool.," i. p. 68, 1784, and given on the authority of Mr. Graham.]

[137]Lutra canadensis(Schreber). This valuable fur-bearer is found throughout the wooded country, but is rare near the borders of the forest.

[CC]The Otter is very fond of play; and one of their favourite pastimes is, to get on a high ridge of snow, bend their fore-feet backward, and slide down the side of it, sometimes to the distance of twenty yards.

[138]Lutreola vison lacustris(Preble, North Am. Fauna, No. 22, p. 66, 1902). This race differs from the typical race of Eastern Canada in its larger size and some minor cranial characters. It inhabits the region west of Hudson Bay, north to the limit of trees.

[139]Mustela pennantiErxleben. As far as known, this fur-bearer reaches its northern limit on the coast of Hudson Bay near Cape Tatnam.

[CD]Mr. Graham asserts that this animal frequents the banks of creeks, and feeds on fish; but these are by no means their usual haunts. I have, however, no doubt, but when they find fish on the land, that they may eat it, like other carnivorous animals; but they are as shy of taking the water as a domestic cat. They climb trees, and catch partridges, mice, and rabbits, with as much ease as a martin. They are easily tamed and domesticated, are very fond of tea-leaves, have a pleasant musky smell, and are very playful.[This statement is apparently from Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," i. p. 82, 1784), who gives Mr. Graham as authority.]

[This statement is apparently from Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," i. p. 82, 1784), who gives Mr. Graham as authority.]

[140]The Skunk,Mephitis mephitis(Schreber), has not been detected on the coast of Hudson Bay north of Fort Albany, but farther westward it reaches Oxford House and Great Slave Lake. The animal of the Cumberland House region is the Northern Plains Skunk,Mephitis hudsonicaRichardson.

[141]Mustela americana abieticolaPreble. A much larger race than typicalM. americanaof Eastern Canada is the form inhabiting the country west of Hudson Bay.

[142]The common weasel of the wooded parts of the Hudson Bay region isPutorius richardsoni(Bonaparte). North of the tree-limit is found a larger species,P. arcticusMerriam, which ranges north of the continent over the Arctic islands. Both species turn white in winter and are then known as ermine.

[143]Fiber zibethicus hudsoniusPreble (North Am. Fauna, No. 22, p. 53, 1902; type locality, Fort Churchill). This race, which differs from the typical animal of Eastern Canada in smaller size and in cranial characters, inhabits the region west of Hudson Bay, north to the limit of trees.

[144]Acorus calamusLinn. A widely diffused herb abundant in the southern part of the Hudson Bay region. The Crees are said to style itWachusk mitsu-in, i.e. that which the musk-rats eat.

[145]Erethizon dorsatum(Linn.). In Hearne's time the porcupine was rather common throughout the southern part of the Hudson Bay region, and ranged nearly or quite to the limit of trees. Hearne's journey to the Coppermine River was mainly through the Barren Grounds, or near the edge of the timber, where of course the animal was scarce, which accounts for the small number seen by him.Now, throughout the region, constant persecution has reduced this species almost to the verge of extinction, so that a person may travel hundreds of miles through its range without encountering one.

Now, throughout the region, constant persecution has reduced this species almost to the verge of extinction, so that a person may travel hundreds of miles through its range without encountering one.

[146]"Arctic Zool.," i. p. 110, 1784.

[CE]This information was given to Mr. Pennant from the authority of Mr. Graham; but the before-mentioned account of seeing them killed in all stages of pregnancy, when no symptoms of that kind appeared, will, I hope, be sufficient to clear up that mistake.

[147]By foxes of various colours, Hearne refers to the different colour-phases of the red fox,Vulpes fulvus(Desmarest). These are the cross-fox, in which there is a darkening of the colour, and a more or less plainly marked cross indicated on the back; the silver, in which the red tinge is nearly or wholly lost, the general colour being black, with many of the hairs showing a white subterminal zone; and the black, in which the white is absent, or very nearly so. In all these phases, now generally admitted to be varying degrees of melanism, the tip of the tail is white, as in the normal red phase. A perfect black fox is one of the most valuable furs known.

[148]Lepus arcticus canusPreble. Arctic hares are still found regularly as far south as Fort Churchill, and in winter reach still farther south, while to the north-west they occupy suitable localities throughout the Barren Grounds.

[149]Lepus americanus(Erxleben), based mainly on specimens from Churchill River and Severn River, which last place may be considered the type locality.

[150]Sciurus hudsonicusErxleben. Common throughout the Hudson Bay region north to the tree-limit. The name was based on specimens from Hudson Bay, probably from the west coast, although no definite type locality has been assigned.

[151]Citellus parryi(Richardson). This species at the time of Hearne's writing was undescribed, but was later characterised by Richardson (App. to Parry's Second Voyage, p. 316, 1827), from specimens taken at Five Hawser Bay, Melville Peninsula. It inhabits the Barren Grounds from Hudson Bay north-westward to the Mackenzie, and is represented by related and intergrading forms nearly throughout Alaska, and southward in the Rocky Mountains to the northern United States.

[152]The shrew most often found in the beaver houses is the marsh shrew,Neosorex palustris(Rich.), whose aquatic habits admirably fit it for such situations. Two or three smaller shrews, less aquatic in habits, also inhabit the Hudson Bay region.

[153]Dicrostonyx richardsoniMerriam. This lemming, which is closely related toD. hudsoniusof Labrador, was described from specimens taken at Fort Churchill, where it is abundant. Farther to the north it is represented by closely related forms whose ranges are among the most northerly of all land animals. Hearne's excellent account of this species has been confirmed in almost every particular by later observers.

[154]Odobænus rosmarus(Linn.). This animal was formerly abundant in Hudson Bay, but is now far from common, and is confined to the northern and north-eastern parts.

[155]Phoca vitulinaLinn. is one of the commonest seals about the Bay, while the ringed seal,Phoca hispidaSchreber, is perhaps equally abundant about its northern shores. The grey species mentioned is the bearded seal,Erignathus barbatus(Erxleben), which is abundant in most parts of Hudson Bay.

[156]The narwhal,Monodon monocerosLinn., is still a rare inhabitant of Hudson Strait and the extreme northern part of the Bay.

[CF]In the Fall of the year 1768, a fine rock cod was drove on shore in a high gale of wind, and was eaten at the Governor's table; Messrs. William Wales and Joseph Dymond, who went out to observe the transit of Venus which happened on the 3d of June 1769, partook of it; but I never heard of one being caught with a hook, nor ever saw an entire fish of that description in those parts: their jaw-bones are, however, frequently found on the shores.[The common cod,Gadus callariusLinn., enters Hudson Strait, and is economically important in Ungava Bay. An occasional one is reported in Hudson Bay, but whether or not the fish is abundant there is not known.]

[The common cod,Gadus callariusLinn., enters Hudson Strait, and is economically important in Ungava Bay. An occasional one is reported in Hudson Bay, but whether or not the fish is abundant there is not known.]

[157]Balæna mysticetusLinn. This species, the principal object of pursuit by the northern whalers, was originally fairly common in the northern part of Hudson Bay, but is now rare there.

[CG]I have heard that no Whale caught by our Greenland ships is called a Pay-fish; that is, that no emolument arises to the harpooner that strikes it; unless the longest blade of the bone, usually called Whale-bone, measures six feet; whereas those killed in Hudson's Bay seldom measured more than four feet and an half.

[158]Delphinapterus catodon(Linn.). This toothed whale is still common in nearly all parts of Hudson Bay, and considerable numbers are taken by means of nets at Fort Churchill. The oil is exported and the meat utilized for food for dogs.

[159]The "Salmon" here spoken of is evidently some form of the widely distributedSalvelinus alpinus(Linn.), several supposed forms of which have been described from different parts of Arctic North America. The ordinary method of taking it on the coast of Hudson Bay is by stretching a net between stakes at low tide at right angles to the shore. The net being immersed at high tide intercepts the fish, which apparently follow the line of the shore. When the tide falls the catch is of course easily retrieved.

[160]Mallotus villosus(Müller). This is a kind of smelt of wide distribution in northern waters.

[161]Apparently referring toMytilus edulis(Linn.), which is very abundant on the shore of Hudson Bay.

[162]Hyas coarctatusLeach, occurs on the west coast of Hudson Bay. Probably other species inhabit its waters.

[163]A common starfish on the west coast of Hudson Bay is a six-armed species,Asterias polaris(Müller and Troschel).

[164]The common frog of the Hudson Bay region is the northern wood frog,Rana cantabrigensis latiremisCope, which is abundant north to the tree-limit. A smaller species,Chorophilus septentrionalisBoulenger, is abundant on the coast as far north at least as York Factory.

[165]From Hearne's description of its habits he evidently refers to the white-headed eagle,Haliaetus leucocephalus alascanusTownsend, which is the commoner of the two species of that region. The golden eagle,Aquila chrysætos(Linn.), is rare near the Bay, but in places in the interior, where rocky ledges occur, is sometimes rather common.

[166]The Sacre Falcon of Pennant is generally identified asFalco rusticolus gyrfalcoLinn.

[167]Nyctea nyctea(Linn.). This beautiful owl is common throughout the region, breeding on the Barren Grounds, and in winter moving southward into the wooded country. Occasionally a pair will nest far south of the normal range.

[168]The great horned owl,Bubo virginianus subarcticus(Hoy), found throughout the region north nearly to the limit of trees.

[169]This is the hawk owl,Surnia ulula caparoch(Müller). It is fairly abundant throughout the region north to the limit of trees.

[170]Corvus corax principalis(Ridgway). The raven is rare on the coast of Hudson Bay, but is rather common in the interior.

[171]Perisoreus canadensis(Linn.). Very abundant throughout the region north to the limit of trees. It nests in late winter, laying three or four bluish-grey eggs spotted with brownish.

[172]Besides the "Golden-winged Bird,"Colaptes auratus luteus(Bangs), which reaches the limit of trees, several other woodpeckers inhabit that region.

[173]Referring to the pileated woodpecker,Phlœotomus pileatus abieticola(Bangs), which is found about the southern parts of Hudson Bay, and inland toward the south-west.

[174]Hearne is mistaken here, as the golden-winged woodpecker is well known to leave the northern parts of its summer habitat for several months.

[175]Bonasa umbellus togata(Linn.). Found about the southern shores of Hudson Bay, as far north as about 57°, and inland much farther north.

[176]Pediœcetes phasianellus(Linn.). Hearne's remarks on its range in this region are well founded, and agree with what is known of its present distribution.

[CH]This I assert from my own experience when at Cumberland House.

[177]Canachites canadensis(Linn.). This grouse inhabits all the region west of Hudson Bay north nearly to the limit of trees, but is scarce near the northern border of its range.

[178]Lagopus lagopus(Linn.) This beautiful ptarmigan is still abundant on the shores of Hudson Bay. It breeds abundantly throughout the Barren Grounds and in considerable numbers on the treeless areas which form an almost continuous fringe along the west coast of the Bay nearly to its southern extremity.

[CI]Mr. Dragge observes, in his North West Passage, that when the partridges begin to change colour, the first brown feathers appear in the rump; but this is so far from being a general rule, that an experienced Hudsonian must smile at the idea. That Mr. Dragge never saw an instance of this kind I will not say, but when Nature deviates so far from its usual course, it is undoubtedly owing to some accident; and nothing is more likely than that the feathers of the bird Mr. Dragge had examined, had been struck off by a hawk; and as the usual season for changing their plumage was near, the Summer feathers supplied their place; for out of the many hundreds of thousands that I have seen killed, I never saw or heard of a similar instance.

[179]Lagopus rupestris(Gmel.). This species, first described from specimens sent from Hudson Bay, is more northern in its range than the willow ptarmigan.

[CJ]Besides the birds already mentioned, which form a constant dish at our tables in Hudson's Bay, during their respective seasons, Mr. Jérémie asserts, that during the time he was Governor at York Fort, the bustard was common. But since that Fort was delivered up to the English at the peace of Utrecht in 1713, none of the Company's servants have ever seen one of those birds: nor does it appear by all the Journals now in the possession of the Hudson's Bay Company, that any such bird was ever seen in the most Southern parts of the Bay, much less at York Fort, which is in the latitude 57° North; so that a capital error, or a wilful design to mislead, must have taken place. Indeed, his account of the country immediately where he resided, and the productions of it, are so erroneously stated as to deserve no notice. His colleague, De le Potries, asserts the existence of the bustard in those parts, and with an equal regard to truth.[This is explained by the fact that the early French writers referred to the Canada goose under the nameOutarde.]

[This is explained by the fact that the early French writers referred to the Canada goose under the nameOutarde.]

[180]Ectopistes migratorius(Linn.). This short account of the habits is evidently founded on Hearne's experience with the species in the Cumberland House region, where at that time it was doubtless abundant. The present record for Fort Churchill, as well as other early notices of its occurrence at York Factory, probably represent the northward wandering of flocks after the breeding season.

[181]Planesticus migratorius(Linn.). The American robin is rather common in the Hudson Bay region north to the tree-limit. At Fort Churchill, in late July 1900, I saw flocks composed of old birds and young just from the nests.

[182]Pinicola enucleator leucura(Müller). Found throughout the region north to the limit of trees, but, as Hearne intimates, not abundant.

[183]Plectrophenax nivalis(Linn.). This name was based on a Hudson Bay specimen. The bird is abundant throughout the region in migration, and breeds from the vicinity of Neville Bay (near lat. 62°), northward.

[184]Zonotrichia leucophrys(Forster). First described from specimens taken at Severn River, Hudson Bay. An abundant species throughout the region north to the limit of trees.

[185]Calcarius lapponica(Linn.). A common species, as Hearne says. It breeds from the tree-limit northward.

[186]Apparently referring to the Redpoll,Acanthis linaria(Linn.), which is, of course, not closely related to the Lapland longspur.

[187]Hearne apparently refers to the Shore Lark,Otocoris alpestris hoytiBishop, which breeds abundantly on the small barrens along the west coast of Hudson Bay as well as on the main area of the Barren Grounds.

[188]Penthestes hudsonicus; first described by Forster from specimens taken at Severn River, Hudson Bay. It inhabits the region north to the limit of trees.

[189]This account of the nesting habits seems to refer to the Barn Swallow,Hirundo erythrogastra(Bodd). I am not aware that this bird now nests at Fort Churchill, though it is not unlikely that it did so formerly. The cliffs in the vicinity would afford ideal natural nesting sites.

[190]Here Hearne undoubtedly refers to the Bank Swallow,Riparia riparia(Linn.), which inhabits the region in myriads. As it nests only in banks of clay or sand its local abundance is dependent on their presence. The eggs are unspotted.

[191]Grus americana(Linn.). Though specimens from Hudson Bay figured in the original description of this magnificent species, it was rare even in Hearne's time, and is now probably extirpated in that region.

[192]The Brown Crane (Grus canadensis), was described by Linnæus from Hudson Bay specimens, and is still rather common on its marshy plains, and on the Barren Grounds.

[193]The American Bittern,Botaurus lentiginosus(Montagu), is fairly common in the marshes about Hudson Bay north to the vicinity of York Factory.

[194]The Esquimaux Curlew of Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," ii. p. 461, 1785) is really the Hudsonian Curlew,Numenius hudsonicus(Latham), and Hearne of course follows Pennant in this error. It is still a common species on the west coast of Hudson Bay. The smaller one, which is the real Eskimo Curlew,Numenius borealis(Forster), was formerly very abundant, but is now, unhappily, nearly or quite extinct.

[195]Apparently the common Snipe,Gallinago delicata(Ord.).

[196]The Hudsonian Godwit,Limosa hæmastica(Linn.). This name was based on the drawing of a specimen from Hudson Bay. It breeds in the marshes on the west coast of the Bay, probably nearly throughout its length.

[197]The Spotted Godwit of Pennant ("Arct. Zool.," ii. p. 467, 1785) is the Greater Yellowlegs,Totanus melanoleucus(Gmel.).

[198]Arenaria morinella(Linn.). The Turnstone is abundant along the west coast of Hudson Bay in migration, and doubtless breeds about its northern shores, though I am not aware that its nest has actually been discovered there.

[CK]They exactly correspond with the bird described by Mr. Pennant, except that they are much longer.

[199]Charadrius dominicusMüller. Formerly very abundant, as Hearne intimates, but now very much reduced in numbers. It breeds about the northern shores of Hudson Bay.

[200]Cepphus mandti(Mandt). This Guillemot is abundant on Hudson Bay and the neighbouring waters to the northward.

[201]Gavia immer(Brünn.). This is perhaps the least abundant of the Loons found on Hudson Bay, though common in the lakes of the interior.

[202]Gavia adamsi(Gray). Hearne's statement that the bird has a white bill shows that he refers to the present species, though a Black-throated Loon,Gavia pacifica(Lawrence), is common there. Perhaps he confuses the two. At any rate,G. adamsiis abundant over much of the country traversed by him on his Coppermine journey, but I am not aware that it has been detected as far east as Hudson Bay.

[203]Gavia stellata(Pontoppidan). Abundant in the lake-studded country bordering Hudson Bay.

[204]Though in all probability several species are included under this heading, the commonest is the widely distributed Herring Gull,Larus argentatusPontoppidan. The "Grey Gull" following is undoubtedly the young of the same species.

[205]Jaegers,Stercorarius, of which perhaps the commonest, and the one suggested by Hearne's description, isS. pomarinus. It is probable, however, that bothS. parasiticusandS. longicaudus(the former of which is the more abundant) also came under his observation.

[206]Plainly referring to the Arctic Tern,Sterna paradisæaBrünn. An excessively abundant species on the west coast of Hudson Bay.

[207]Pelecanus erythrorhynchosGmel., has been taken on Hudson Bay only as a rare straggler, but is abundant in the Cumberland House region.

[CL]In the Fall of 1774, when I first settled at Cumberland House, the Indians imposed on me and my people very much, by selling us Pelican fat for the fat of the black bear. Our knowledge of the delicacy of the latter induced us to reserve this fat for particular purposes; but when we came to open the bladders, it was little superior to train oil, and was only eatable by a few of my crew, which at that time consisted only of eight Englishmen and two of the home Indians from York Fort.Cumberland House was the first inland settlement the Company made from Hudson's Fort; and though begun on so small a scale, yet upon it and Hudson's House, which is situated beyond it, upwards of seventy men were now employed.

Cumberland House was the first inland settlement the Company made from Hudson's Fort; and though begun on so small a scale, yet upon it and Hudson's House, which is situated beyond it, upwards of seventy men were now employed.

[208]Mergus serratorLinn. This species is still very abundant on the coast of Hudson Bay, as well as in the interior.

[209]The smaller Swan isOlor columbianus(Ord.), formerly very abundant on Hudson Bay, and still occurring in some numbers during migrations. It breeds on the islands in the northern parts of the Bay, and in other parts of the far North.The larger Whooping Swan,Olor buccinator(Richardson), formerly bred about the southern part of the Hudson Bay region, and also far northward. In the wholesale destruction of these magnificent birds, this species has suffered most.

The larger Whooping Swan,Olor buccinator(Richardson), formerly bred about the southern part of the Hudson Bay region, and also far northward. In the wholesale destruction of these magnificent birds, this species has suffered most.

[CM]Mr. Pennant, in treating of the Whistling Swan, takes notice of the formation of the Windpipe; but on examination, the windpipes of both the species which frequent Hudson's Bay are found to be exactly alike, though their note is quite different. The breast-bone of this bird is different from any other I have seen; for instead of being sharp and solid, like that of a goose, it is broad and hollow. Into this cavity the windpipe passes from the valve, and reaching quite down to the abdomen, returns into the chest, and joins the lungs. Neither of the species of Swan that frequent Hudson's Bay are mute: but the note of the larger is much louder and harsher than that of the smaller.

[210]Branta canadensis(Linn.). This large goose is the earliest to arrive in spring, and is the most southern breeder, nesting throughout the wooded country.

[211]Branta canadensis hutchinsi(Richardson). This smaller form of the Canada Goose was named in honour of Thomas Hutchins, a Hudson's Bay Company officer who made natural history collections on Hudson Bay, and was the first to call attention to this race. It breeds on the Barren Grounds.

[212]Chen hyperboreus nivalis(Forster). This larger form ofC. hyperboreuswas first described from Severn River specimens. Though much reduced in numbers, it still breeds about the northern part of Hudson Bay, and is an important food species in the region.

[213]Chen cærulescens(Linn.). First described from a Hudson Bay specimen. According to the natives it breeds in the interior of northern Ungava; west of Hudson Bay, it is known only as a straggler. It winters in the Mississippi valley and on the Atlantic coast.

[214]This is the first account ofChen rossi, formally described by Cassin in 1861 from specimens taken on Great Slave Lake. It is almost unknown on Hudson Bay, but is abundant in migrations about Great Slave and Athabaska lakes. It breeds somewhere to the northward of this region, but its summer home is unknown.

[CN]Mr. Moses Norton.

[215]Anser albifrons gambeliHartl. An inhabitant of the west coast of Hudson Bay, but more common in the Mackenzie valley.

[216]Probably referring, as Hearne suggests, to abnormally large and perhaps barren individuals of the Canada Goose (Branta canadensis).

[217]Branta bernicla glaucogastra(Brehm). Still occurring in some numbers along the west coast of Hudson Bay, in migrations, and breeding about its northern shores.

[218]BothSomateria mollissima borealis(Brehm), andS. dresseriSharpe, occur about the north-west coast of Hudson Bay in summer, and doubtless both breed there. The King Eider also,S. spectabilis(Linn.), migrates down the coast, but probably breeds farther to the north.

[219]The Bean Goose,Anser fabalis(Latham), is of very doubtful occurrence in the Hudson Bay region.

[CO]It is, however, no less true, that the late Mr. Humphry Martin, many years Governor of Albany Fort, sent home several hundred specimens of animals and plants to complete that collection; but by some mistake, nothing of the kind was placed to the credit of his account. Even my respected friend Mr. Pennant, who with a candour that does him honour, has so generously acknowledged his obligations to all to whom he thought he was indebted for information when he was writing his Arctic Zoology, (see the Advertisement,) has not mentioned his name; but I am fully persuaded that it entirely proceeded from a want of knowing the person; and as Mr. Hutchins succeeded him at Albany in the year 1774, every thing that has been sent over from that part has been placed to his account.

[220]Somateria spectabilis(Linn.).

[221]ProbablyAnas rubripesBrewster.

[222]Anas platyrhynchosLinn.

[223]Dafila acuta(Linn.).

[224]Mareca americana(Gmel.).

[225]Nettion carolinense(Gmel.).

[226]Mareca americana(Gmel.). The American Widgeon occurs on the west coast of Hudson Bay north to the tree-limit, but is not common there.

[227]The Common Teal of the west coast of Hudson Bay isNettion carolinense(Gmel.), which occurs in numbers well into the Barren Grounds. The Blue-winged Teal,Querquedula discors(Linn.), has been taken there, but is excessively rare.

[228]Ribes oxyacanthoidesLinn. A species of very wide distribution in the north. It is usually common about the trading posts.

[229]Vaccinium vitisidæaLinn. An abundant species; reaches its greatest perfection near the northern border of the forest.

[230]Empetrum nigrumLinn. The crowberry is very abundant about Fort Churchill and northward.

[231]Rubus chamæmorusLinn. The cloudberry or baked-apple berry is abundant throughout the country treated by Hearne.

[232]The northern red currant,Ribes rubrumLinn., and the black currant,Ribes hudsonianumRichardson, are species of wide distribution in the north.

[233]Apparently Hearne refers toJuniperus nanaWilld., the dwarf juniper, since Richardson gives the same Indian name as applied by the Crees to this shrub. Granting this, Hearne's creeping pine isJuniperus sabinaLinn., shrubby red cedar. Both species extend northward to the tree-limit.

[CP]The Indians call the Juniper-berry Caw-caw-cue-minick, or the Crowberry.

[CQ]The Oteagh-minick of the Indians, is so called, because it in some measure resembles a heart.

[234]ProbablyFragaria canadensisMichx.

[235]ProbablyRubus arcticusLinn. A pretty little plant, similar in distribution to the cloudberry.

[236]Vaccinium uliginosumLinn. A low blueberry of wide distribution. The fruit is excellent.

[237]ProbablyComandra lividaRich.

[238]Evidently, from his description, Hearne here refers to the Alpine bearberry,Arctous alpina(Linn.). It is abundant throughout the region.

[239]Apparently referring to the common rose of the region,Rosa acicularisLindl. An abundant and very beautiful species.

[240]Hearne refers here to the two species ofLedum. L. grœnlandicumŒder is the broad-leaved sort, generally distributed through the wooded country, and extending a little into the Barren Grounds.L. palustreLinn. is a smaller narrow-leaved species, which overlaps the range of the larger sort, and extends much farther north.

[241]This refers to the common bearberry,Arctostaphylos uva-ursi(Linn.). Its leaves are smoked both by the Indians and the Eskimo, and also by the white residents.

[242]Picea alba(Ait.) andP. mariana(Mill.).

[243]Larix laricina(Du Roi).

[244]Populus balsamiferaLinn., andP. tremuloidesMichx.

[245]Betula nanaLinn.

[246]A number of dwarf willows, includingSalix anglorumCham.,S. phylicifoliaLinn., andS. reticulataLinn., grow on the coast of Hudson Bay to the northward of Fort Churchill.

[247]Betula papyriferaMarsh, from whose bark the Indians make their canoes.

[248]The common alder of the interior isAlnus alnobetula(Ehrh.).

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