10 



PLATE VI. THE BLACK-BROWED ALBATEOSS. 



From a photograph by K. W. SKELTON (Sk. 6, |-plate), Dec. 28, 1901 ; taken 

 shortly before reaching the pack-ice on the journey south from New 

 Zealand. 



This Albatross, or "Mollymawk" (Diomedea melanophrys), was the least 

 timid and the most abundant of all the Albatrosses that followed in our wake. 



As we entered the pack-ice they deserted us, but not before we had 

 caught several of them. 



Quite unhurt by their capture, they would stalk along the deck with a 

 splay-foot dignity, which was only increased if obstruction was offered to their 

 progress. There was neither fear nor timidity in their movements. 



From the length of their wings and the awkwardness of their legs and 

 feet, these birds were quite unable to rise in flight from the deck without 

 assistance. 



See Nat. Hist. Rep., vol. ii., Aves, p. 111. 



