The cygnet, or young of the swan, was formerly much esteemed; at Norwich they were fattened for the corporation. The flesh of the old birds is hard and ill tasted.
The pintail (Anas acuta) is a very choice bird—the very ‘ring tail’ of the duck tribe. They are undoubtedly a recherché morceau, for, being essentially grain feeders, they have no fishy flavour.
Widgeon and teal are in great favour when in good condition.
REPTILIA.
We find various reptiles, Chelonian, Saurian, and Ophidian, still forming articles of food in many quarters of the world, and some so repulsive in their appearance, that it seems difficult to conceive how they could first have been tasted.
In the class Reptilia, we have in the first order Chelonia or tortoises, comprising the following which are used as food:—1, several of the terrestrial tortoises, genus Testudo; 2, some of the marsh tortoises or Emydes, the chelodina, matamata, &c.; 3, the cryptopus or river tortoise; and 4, the marine tortoises or turtles.
In the second order Sauria or lizards, we find—1, crocodiles and alligators contributing to the sustenance of man; 2, several of the iguarians.
In the third order, Ophidia or serpents, the rattlesnake, boas and pythons, and several other snakes.
In the fourth order, Amphibia, some of the edible and tree frogs.
We know not, observes a recent writer, why the flesh of the vegetable-feeding tortoises should not be adopted, as well as that of the green turtle, among the various articles which are in request for the table. There is much in habit and association of ideas; and though persons who would not refuse turtle might turn from tortoise with disgust, they may rest assured that in Sicily and Italy these land tortoises are sold in the markets, principally for being made into soup, which dish is more esteemed than the flesh prepared in any other way.