terns, for the first time, will easily recognise them. For, in the 
first place they look like miniature gulls, but with longer and more 
pointed wings, and forked tails. Further, all have a characteristic 
black cap. They travel in small parties, as if for company, keep- 
no more than a yard or two from the surface of the water, and 
scanning it eagerly in search of shoals of small fish, or crustacea. 
As these are found one will note a quickening of the wing-beat, 
anda sudden dive, like that of the gannet, with half-closed wings. 
And sometimes, too, the impetus will take them completely under 
water. 
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