"Yes, and the vegetation is very plentiful," added the captain.
They were still some distance from the shore when Dave called a halt.
"Look at the big birds yonder," he whispered. "Can't we bring down two or three with sticks or stones? They will make fine eating."
"We can try it, Dave."
Sticks and stones were handy, and arming themselves they approached a large tree upon which the birds were resting.
"Ready?" asked Dave.
"Yes."
"Throw!"
The youth let fly a short stick and the captain a sharp stone. Down came two birds, one dead and the other seriously wounded. The others set up a wild squawking and flew away.
"Not so bad!" cried the captain, and ran to dispatch the wounded bird.