THE BASS ROCK AND ITS BIRDS. 141 



the non-breeding season the Gannet is seldom seen 

 near land, spending its time in a nomad life at sea, 

 wandering to and fro in quest of food. Its powers 

 of wing are marvellous. It may be said literally to 

 live in the air, only settling on the water to sleep or 

 (and much less frequently) to digest its food. Early 

 in spring the Gannet ceases its nomad life, and 

 begins to gather at the old accustomed breeding- 

 places, which are used year by year for time out of 

 mind. At the Bass the birds appear in April, but 

 further north at St. Kilda I was assured that the 

 bulk of the individuals does not arrive until May. 

 The number of Gannets that breed on the Bass 

 has been variously estimated at from six thousand 

 to ten thousand pairs, the latter possibly being 

 nearest the mark. Besides the adult breeding birds 

 there are a few immature individuals to be seen, 

 readily distinguished by their more or less speckled 

 plumage. The scene tliat bursts upon the view 

 when the edge of the cliffs is reached beggars all 

 attempt at description. Many writers have essayed 

 the task of putting on paper the wonderful sight, 

 but all have felt the utter impossibility of doing 

 justice to the bewildering scene. It is a far more 

 fitting subject for the graphic pencil of some 

 accomplished artist-naturalist. The air, the cliffs. 



