THE GANNET. 175 
Gannets would appear to be very long lived birds, for the keeper of the Bass 
Rock informed Professor Cunningham, that he had recognised, from particular and 
well known marks, certain individuals that invariably returned to the same spot 
to breed, for upwards of forty years. 
The Gannet used to be considered a delicacy for the table, being served, according 
to the Mickleton MSS, quoted above, doubtless to the Judges of Assize, in 1628, 
by the Sheriff of Northumberland. In 1660, it was also a choice dish in Scotland, 
(where it was known as “‘Gentleman”’), a plucked Goose costing one shilling and 
eightpence of the currency of that date. Few of those, who have tried, in recent 
years, even the youngest and tenderest looking birds, speak of the dish as either 
“delicate,” or ‘‘ choice.” 
‘““T have seen statements,’ says Mr. Booth, who kept numbers of these inter- 
esting birds in captivity, “‘ to the effect that the Gannet is unsuited to confinement, 
and ill repays the consideration with which it is treated. The poor creatures are 
by nature endowed with a voracious appetite, and if starved necessarily become 
ravenous and possibly spiteful. When looked after by those acquainted with their 
. requirements, and willing to supply them with a sufficient quantity of food— 
mackerel, herrings, and sprats are their favourite fare—none.of the feathered tribe 
coyld be found whose habits are more interesting, and but few so harmless and 
gentle.” 
END OF VOLUME THREE. 
BRUMBY AND CLARKE, LTD., PRINTERS, HULL AND LONDON. 
