GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL 435 
frequents the rock-bound as well as the flat and sandy 
portions of the coast. It is tolerably widespread over the 
British Isles, appearing less plentiful than it really is, owing 
to its solitary and wary habits. Save at the nesting-sites, 
it is generally seen alone or in small parties, but an 
abundance of offal, such as stranded carcases, will bring 
double or treble the usual numbers together. The figure 
of this giant Gull, standing on the sands amid hundreds of 
smaller birds, is known to most of us. Its pose, motionless 
but stately, as though discarding its surroundings and the 
ceaseless activity of its smaller companions, its lordly size, 
powerful build, and handsome plumage, at once enlist our 
admiration, despite its cruel and cunning habits. 
The Great Black-backed Gull is a true lover of the 
sea, rarely visiting inland waters. Hardy by nature, it can 
brave the effects of the roughest weather, and is equally 
at home on the rugged, storm-swept shores and islands 
remote from human habitation, as in the shelter of our bays 
and harbours. Its superior strength renders it more than 
a match for the Falcon or Skua, so that in its maritime 
home it dwells in comparative safety. 
This Gull is notorious for its cunning sagacity; it rises 
from the ground with apparent indifference, flaps its great 
wings leisurely, almost sluggishly, yet al! the time it is 
cool and collected, and can, to a nicety, calculate the right 
time to shun any approaching danger. 
Flight—In the air the bird is seen to the best advan- 
tage, now gliding past with immense outspread pinions, now 
indulging in magnificent wheeling movements, suddenly a 
downward dart to the water and up again, finally sailing out 
to sea, until the mighty form is lost to view. 
‘oice.—The cry, though hoarse, is feeble and muttering, 
differing from the characteristic, discordant yell of most other 
Gulls. The note may be syllabled dc-ag-ag, dc-ac-ag-ag, 
often uttered during flight, especially when the bird passes 
an observer at close quarters. 
Food.—This rapacious creature purloins the eggs and fledg- 
lings of various sea-birds, captures and devours small land- 
birds whenever opportunity arises, notably during their migra- 
tion over the sea, and ferociously attacks wounded birds, some 
as large as itself. Winged Wigeons fluttering on the sea 
are quickly despatched, and even uninjured Brent Geese rise 
when this pirate appears overhead (Ussher). Mammals, such 
as rats and young rabbits, are seized and torn to pieces by 
