BIRDS. 
167 
and reaching the whole length of the bill to the 
neck : this bag is covered with a very soft and 
smooth down, and, when empty, is scarcely percep- 
tible, as the bird has the power of wrinkling it up 
into the lower jaw. 
186. These birds are exceedingly torpid and in- 
active, so that nothing can exceed their indolence 
but their gluttony ; for, were they not excited by the 
stimulus of hunger, they would always continue in 
repose. 
187. When in search of food, they fly over the 
water with one eye turned downwards, and, as soon 
as they see a fish near the surface, dart down with 
the greatest velocity, and with a most certain aim 
seize it, and store it up in their pouch. 
THE CORMORANT. 
188. The Cormorant weighs about seven pounds, 
and is nearly of the same size as a goose. Its colour 
What is said of its character ? How does it take its food ? 
Describe the Cormorant. 
