386 



THE STORMY PETREL. 



above, and a deep ash-color beneath. The wings, when closed, exceed 

 the tail by an inch. The legs are of a pale yellow, and part of the toes 

 and webs is black. 



Ranging over the expanse of the ocean, and frequently at a vast 

 distance from land, the former of these birds is enabled to brave the 

 utmost fury of the storms. Even in the most tempestuous weather it 

 is frequently observed by the mariners, skimming with almost in- 

 credible velocity, along the hollows of the waves, and sometimes 



