GA'NNET OR SOLAN GOOSE . — Sula Bassdnea. 
The Gannet, Solan Goose, or Spectacled Goose, is a well-known resident 
on our coasts, its chief home being the Bass Rock in the Frith of Forth, on which 
it congregates in vast numbers. 
The Gannet is a large bird, nearly three feet long, and being powerful on the 
wing and possessed of large appetite, it makes great havoc among the fish which 
it devours. Herrings, pilchards, sprats, and similar fish, are a favourite food of 
the Gannet, and as soon as the shoals of herrings approach the coast, the Gannets 
assemble in flocks and indicate to the fishermen the presence and position of the 
fish. 
The bird is able to catch its prey at some distance below the surface, and 
accomplishes its object by shooting directly downwards with partially closed 
wings and seizing the fish before it has time to take alarm. 
The nest of the Gannet is a heap of grass, seaweed and similar substances. 
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