288 THE FOWLER IN IRELAND. 



Hundreds of holes are burrowed by the former 

 on the sides of the slopes, and great numbers may 

 be seen scattered about. Only a few Razor-bills 

 and Guillemots breed here, and those chiefly on the 

 north and north-east side of the island. The next 

 and most western of the group is Inish-Vickil- 

 lane, a beautifully green and rather low island. A 

 herdsman lives here, tending sheep for the pro- 

 prietor by no means an enviable position, as com- 

 munication from shore is often cut off for a long 

 period. Here the Oyster-catcher breeds. On our 

 landing they trot along in front, a few yards in 

 advance only, and when flying overhead utter their 

 sharp peculiar whistle, an indication that their nests 

 are not far off. We now sail N.W. to the Ter- 

 raght, ten miles from the mainland, and on it stands 

 the lighthouse. This rock is almost divided into 

 two portions, being perforated near the centre by 

 an immense cave, through which a large boat might 

 sail.* 



There are two landing-places, north and south, 

 with cranes for lifting supplies ashore. On both 

 sides numbers of steps are cut in the rock to facili- 

 tate ascent. 



The south landing is dangerous, save in the 

 finest weather, as the back scud of the sea throws 

 up the water in great volumes. On landing we 

 ascend the steps that lead to the buildings, near to 

 which is obtained a fine view of the north-eastern 



* The northernmost island of the Blasquets, by name Inish- 

 tooskert, and some rocks near it, are favourite nesting-places for sea- 

 fowl, but are very seldom visited. A search there at the proper 

 season might be well rewarded. 



