588 



LARID.^. 



in size, it will probably be this species, provided that it 

 have a grey and not a black back. In the latter case it 

 may either be the Great or Lesser Elack-backed Gull. 



The Herring Gull is a large and powerful bird, 

 thoroughly competent to dispose of a herring or even a 

 more bulky fish. It is common on most parts of the 

 British coast, and remains with us all the year, building 



THE HERRING GULL. 



its nest on steep cliffs, or rocky islands. In the south of 

 England it is very abundant, and is more frequently seen 

 inland, in newly-ploughed fields, than any other species. 

 Like the other Gulls, it may easily be tamed if taken 

 young ; and, when kept in a garden, earns its mainte- 

 nance by keeping down slugs and other vermin. 



