INTRODUCTION. 
cxxxm 
almost as widely distributed as the Cormorants. In species, however, they are far less numerous, only six 
or seven being known ; and should the Australian bird be ultimately proved to be identical with our own, 
then the number will be still less. 
Genus Sula. 
372. Sula bassana ............ Vol. V. PI. LIV. 
Gannet, or Solan Goose. 
I must refer my readers to the body of the work for full information respecting this predaceous bird, for 
it would be out of place to enter into particulars here in what can only be regarded as a mere list of the 
species inhabiting Britain. I may mention, however, that Its specific name is derived from one of its breeding- 
places, to which may be added Lundy Island, Ailsa Craig, St. Kilda, Suliskerry in Orkney, See. 
Family LARIDAE. 
Mr. Hurting, in his ‘ Handbook of British Birds,’ has included the Gidls and Terns in the same family, 
with which view I acquiesce, for it would be difficult to draw the line between the termination of the one 
and the commencement of the other. Whether we regard the Gulls, Terns, and Skuas separately or 
collectively, they may be described as coast- wanderers over the entire globe, but more abundant in the 
northern than in the southern hemisphere. Their principal food Is fish, crustaceans, and other marine 
animals, but some of them readily eat worms, insects, and garbage. In their plumage they are perhaps the 
most cleanly of all birds, always maintaining their pure and delicate tints unsullied. There are over one 
hundred species inhabiting various parts of the globe. 
Subfamily LARINiE. 
Genus Labus. 
The members of this genus comprise all the large Gulls — birds which, as scavengers alone, play an 
important part in keeping a wholesome atmosphere. They also prey upon fish, crustaceans, small mammals, 
and weakly birds. 
373. Larus marines Vol. V. PI. LV. 
Great Black-backed Gull. 
A resident species, breeding round our coasts. 
