138 SOOTY TERN. 



SOOTY TERN. 



PLATE CCXVI. FIGURE III. 



Sterna fuliginosa, LATHAM. WILSON. 



Onychoprion fuliginosus, GOULD. 



"1VTO nest is formed, but the eggs are laid in the 

 -L^l sand under trees near the sea-shore, the birds 

 scratching a hollow with their feet, and frequently 

 fitting themselves into it to see that it will answer 

 the purpose. 



The eggs are smooth, and of a pale cream-colour, 

 slightly marked with different shades of pale brown 

 and lighter tints of purple. The female, while sitting, 

 is fed by the male in a tender and affectionate manner. 



