260 ISLES OV SUMMER. 



are washed by the waves during severe storms, are, during the 

 breeding season, literally covered with them, of all ages, but 

 mostly young. At such times the old birds manifest little dis- 

 position to get out of the way of intruders, but will make savage 

 attacks with their powerful bills if too closely approached. They 

 are very quarrelsome, and make frequent malicious attacks upon 

 each other. Dr. Bryant says it is the most expert diver of any 

 birds with which he is acquainted. 

 There is also another species, lighter colored. 



PELICANS. 



Broion Pelican. A resident, and breeds in great numbers on 

 some of the islands. A tame one at Nassau exhibited more in- 

 telligence than Mr. Corey supposed this bird possessed. It went 

 to the fish market every morning, and helped itself to fish when- 

 ever it could elude the owner's vigilance. On one occasion it 

 made known its Avants, and secured the services of Mr. Corey 

 when it wished to enter the closed gate of its owner, by " tuggiirg 

 at his trousers with its bill," while Mr. Corey was passing. 



CORMORANTS. 



Florida Cormorant. An abundant species. " Nothing could 

 tempt" one which Mr. Corey had "to eat a fish which had been 

 dead over night." 



FAM. TACHYPETID. 



Man-of- War Bird, sometimes called Frigate. It frequents 

 all the Bahama islands, and remains during the year. Dr. Bryant 

 visited some of their breeding places, the largest of which was 

 upon one of the Ragged Island Keys, and was five or six acres in 

 extent. He says: **The nests, thickly crowded together, wereJ 



