The Sea=birds of the Fame Islands 205 



The nests were large structures of seaweed and large stalks 

 of some kind, piled up on the rocks, sometimes so close 

 too-ether as to toucli. The nests were very flat, and the 

 majority held two chalky- white eggs, though some had three, 

 and one nest contained four. The smell in their immediate 

 proximity was \'ery strong, and the rocks around were 

 plentifully whitewashed. 



At the time of my visit I had seen some small birds 

 flitting about the rocks ; but being then unaware that the 

 l^ock-pipit was one of the species to be met with, I did 

 not take particular notice of them ; nor did I see any 

 nest of the Ringed Plovers on the little shingly beaches 

 to be found on some of the islands. 



The Gannets, which may be seen fishing around, are 

 visitors from the Bass Rock, which is only about forty miles 

 farther north, a mere trifle for these grand birds when 

 in search of food. To see them plunge from the clouds 

 is nearly as flne a sight as to watch an Osprey catch its 

 flnny prey. 



Permission to visit this sea-birds' paradise is necessary; 

 and when that is procured, you are allowed to land in company 

 with one of the watchers, who ne\er leaves you, and is 

 responsible for your discreet behaviour. Xo eggs must be 

 taken, except perhaps a few of the Lesser Black-backed 

 Gull, w^iich predatory species has to be kept rather in 

 check, as any undue increase in their numbers would mean 

 danger to their weaker neighbours. 



