OBSERVATIONS ON THE GANNET, 189 



Although this contrivance is so absolutely ne- 

 cessary to the existence of every species of bird, it 

 is not immediately obvious for what particular 

 purpose the property of inflation is so much fur- 

 ther extended than usual in the gannet. We 

 should not expect to find this power of inflating 

 the skin, peculiar to those who obtain their subsis- 

 tence by diving, because, in the act of im- 

 mersion, such power could not be exerted with- 

 out obstructing that operation ; and it is obvious, 

 that the air contained within the cavity of the 

 body, is sufficient for all the ordinary purposes of 

 seeking their prey under water. 



From what has been already observed, it will 

 not be unreasonable to conclude, that the gannet 

 is endowed with such singular properties, for very 

 different purposes than that of long and continual 

 immersion. It cannot be doubted, but such a 

 power of inflation must contribute greatly to lessen 

 the concussion in its rapid descent upon the water, 

 in order to seize its prey : besides, as the enlarge- 

 ment of the surface without materially adding to 

 the specific gravity, must greatly contribute to 

 its buoyancy both in air and water, it is well 

 adapted for residing in the midst of the most tem- 

 pestuous sea, floating on its surface in perfect se- 

 curity, and following those shoals of fish, on which 

 depends its whole existence : thus, when all others 

 are compelled to seek shelter in bays and creeks, 

 the gannet is enabled to brave the severest weather 



