40 



greenisli-wliite, with black spots generally distributed, and witb very 

 distinct underlying spots and blotches of purplish-grey (see British 

 Bird Egg Cabinet, drawer 25). 



Case 211. 



RAZOR-BILL {Alca torda). 



The Razor-bill closely resembles the Guillemots in its habits, and 

 is generally distributed along rocky coasts from Cornwall to the 

 Shetlands. It is most at home in the water where it vies with the 

 fish, on which it feeds, in activity and rapidity of movement. In 

 summer it comes to the rocky headlands and wild precipitous coasts 

 to rear its young. One egg only is laid, differing in shape from that 

 of the Guillemot and not having the same range of variation in colour 

 (see British Bird Egg Cabinet, drawer 25), and they are usually placed 

 in more sheltered positions, such as corners or hollows among rocks 

 or projecting boulders. 



Case 212. 



COMMON GUILLEMOT {Uria troile). 



The Guillemot is found throughout the year frequenting the open 

 seas surrounding the British Islands. It is an expert diver, and the 

 wings are used for propulsion under the water, in search of fish on 

 which it feeds. In March vast numbers make for land and assemble 

 in immense colonies for breeding purposes. Island cliffs or precipices 

 form their accustomed nesting places, and a single pear shaped egg, 

 varying greatly in colour and markings (see British Bird Egg Cabinet, 

 drawers 25 and 26), is laid in May or June on an open ledge of rock. 

 The female usually sits facing the cliff, and the egg is held between 

 her legs with the point outwards. 



Case 213. 



COOT {Fulica atra). 

 Local name : Lake-Hen. 



A resident species, found in suitable situations throughout the 

 British Islands. Locally, it may be seen frequenting and nesting on 

 our various lakes and in all reedy tarns and pools. In severe weather 

 it migrates to the sea-coast. The food consists of aquatic insects, 

 worms, molluscs and vegetable substances. The nest, made of dry 

 reeds and sedges, forms a deep compact mass, and is generally placed 

 above shallow water, among tall rushes. The eggs are buff-colour 

 with small spots of blackish-brown (see British Bird Egg Cabinet, 

 drawer 19), and are usually seven to ten in number. The nest seen 

 in the group was collected from Knowsley Park. 



