412 OYSTERCATCHER AND TURNSTONE 



the large patches of pure white on its wings and body, which give it 

 a markedly pied appearance. It is not unlike a miniature oyster- 

 catcher, although the two species differ in their method of flight. 

 The wings of the turnstone generally appear to be arched, owing 

 probably to their not being fully extended. It is rather wavering, 

 and frequently describes part of a circle in its flight. The oyster- 

 catcher, on the other hand, flies very straight, with strong regular beats 

 of its fully extended wings. 



The turnstone, like most Waders, can swim well on occasion. 

 Some were observed by Mr. Hume to swim with ease, sitting 

 gracefully on the water outside the foaming breakers, ever and 

 anon rising and flying a little way, then again settling on the waves. 1 



1 Seebohm, British Birds, iii. p. 13. 



