170 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
THE GREAT AUK. 
Jf* 
196. This bird is about the size of a goose. The 
upper part of its plumage is black, and the lower 
white. It is a very bad walker, but swims and dives 
well. It is, however, observed by seamen, that it is 
never seen out of soundings, so that its appearance 
serves as an infallible direction to land. 
197. There is another bird of this description, 
which is called the Penguin , of which there are 
several varieties. It resembles the former in almost 
every respect ; walking erect, and being very stu- 
pid ; also in colour, shortness of wings, and rapidity 
of swimming. 
Describe the Great Auk. Where is it seen ? What is said of 
the Penguin ? 
