LXXXIX. 

 LARUS RISSA. (linn.) 



KiTTIWAKE. 



The nest of tlie Kittiwake is at all times difficult of ac- 

 cess ; placed as it is upon the slightest jutting ledge of rock 

 on the face of the most perpendicular precipices, washed or 

 surrounded by the sea ; it is formed of a considerable quan- 

 tity of dry grass and pieces of sea-weed, and were it not foi- 

 a mixture of clay giving it weight and adhesion, it would be 

 impossible for the eggs or young ones to escape destruction. 

 The Kittiwake breeds in great numbers on various parts of 

 our coast, and is exceedingly abundant on some of the Shet- 

 land islands, especially on the rocks of Unst, the northern 

 termination of our country. We left Buraforth, a fishing 

 station, belonging to Mr. Edmonston, and the most northerly 

 residence on the British islands, anxious to explore them ; 

 passing down a narrow forth on our way to the open sea, 

 thousands of Kittiwakes glided past us, fishing as they went 

 went along ; these wei'e, however, but a scattered few of the 

 amazing multitudes that crowded round us when we reached 

 their breeding places ; the rocks to a great extent were whit- 

 ened with their numbers ; the sea was spangled far and wide 

 with their snow-white breasts, and equal numbers floated an- 

 xiously above our heads, plaintively pronouncing their clearly 

 articulated cry of " Kittiwake." Many of them would come 

 fearlessly within a few feet of the boat, and would hover sta- 

 tionary over our heads, and so near that we could examine 

 every feather ; thousands were, likewise, seated upon their 

 nests close above us, and occupying with them every project- 

 ing ridge of rock. The whole scene was indescribably wild 

 and delightful. I had taken up my abode at the fishing 

 station to enjoy its magnificence, and had strolled along the 



