Author: Pennsylvania Game Commission
Titie: Bulletin, no. 9
Place of Publication: Harrisburg, Pa.
Copyriglit Date: [n.d.]

Master Negative Storage Number: MNS# PSt SNPaAg244.8

tJi'mr: v; ;Z^T liJ^tt/.jA;T:f>

A Year's Program for
Bird Protection in Pennsylvania

i
f

Fig. 1. Cardinal

Beauty of song unci plumaEc, and bt-ne-

ficial food habits make this large member

of the sparrow tribe one of Pennsylvania's

most popular birds

Bulletin No. 9

ISSUED BY THE BOARD OF GAME COMMISSIONERS
COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA

A Year's Program for
Bird Protection in Pennsylvania

' (

' Fi(.. 1. Cakdinm-

li«;uilv i>r snnn .iikI pliini'ijic, .iiid hiru'-

lui.il r<Mi<l hiibits iiiJikr litis l;irt;f minilnr

III ilu' sp.irrow trilu- Kiuni jVunsylviinia's

Miosi pii|)iil.-ir l)ir<ls

Bulletin No. 9

ISSUKI) BV THK BOARD OK (iAMK COMMISSIOXKRS
C()\lMON\VKAi;rH OK in;NNSYIAANlA

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPCJSURE

)^ ■

1

BOARD OF GAME COMMISSIONERS

DR. H. J. DONALDSON, Williamsport FRANKLIN B. McINTOSH, FrankUn

FRANCIS H. COFFIN, Scranton RICHARD E. REITZ, BrookviUe

ADOLF MULLER, Norristown HARRY C STACKPOLE, St. Marys

JARED M. B. REIS, New Castle ROSS L. LEFFLER, McKeesport

JOHN B. TRUMAN, Executive Secretary, Harrisburg

•

Drawing from life by George Miksch Sutton.

SCREECH OWL

The almost luinian face of this beneficial little owl varies greatly with the
bird's moods.

«- <

>

r

•

I

f
I

! '

A YEAR'S PROGRAM FOR BIRD PROTECTION

IN PENNSYLVANIA

By George Miksch Sutton

(Illustrated with photographs by several Pennsylvania ornithologists and

with drawings by the author)

INTRODUCTION

There is a widespread belief that sportsmen are interested in the
preservation of wild-life only insofar as this interest makes possible
a supply of game sufficient to maintain itself and at the same time
permit the taking of a bag which will satisfy every hunter. While
sportsmen doubtless are thus materialistically interested in the game
which they kill annually, it is evident to the writer that their inter-
ests are not by any means entirely selfish, and that the average
huntsman has a genuine sympathy for and interest in wild-life, not
alone in the species which he hunts, but also in those which he sees,
or those which he recognizes as valuable. Thus do the hunters of
Pennsylvania constantly make possible all the actual protection of
song and insectivorous birds which is afforded in Pennsylvania; and
thus have they maintained, since November, 1924, a bureau of Re-
search and Information which strives, employing such methods as
the present bulletin, to increase interest in and knowledge of our
valuable wild life, whether it be game or not.

E— 2

(3)

^-20

WIDESPREAD INTEREST IN PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

In glancing at newspapers and other periodicals of the present day
and in talking with citizens of our Commonwealth who represent
widely differing professions, it is evident to any careful observer
that interest in nature-lore is widespread. Nature study is more
universally considered a subject worthy of attention in pubhc schoo s,
training schools for teachers, and colleges, than ever before. In
such nature-study courses bird-life usually receives a good share ot

attention. , ,. , , , ^^ i

Numerous popular books on birds are ben.g published and used,
and a large number of successful magazines on outdoor subjects
have wide circulation. Sportsmen, who have always had great in-
terest in wild-life, are finding birds other than game birds worthy
of their study and protection. Winter feeding-cotinters for birds
and baths for their summer use are in such demand that landscape
architects employ these features in their treatment of our modern
lawns The erecting of bird-houses is so common a custom that
almost every manual-training course includes a study of the making
of them. Bird-house contests, in which boys of the community take
nart are in vogue. Farmers, almost without exception, now rec-
ognize most species of birds as their valued allies and protect them
to the best of their ability.

There is a better general understanding of the problems of the
bird's existence, a better knowledge of the bird's enemies, and a
greater desire to help these feathered friends than ever before So
general is the interest that nearly every State has a list of its birds
for reference, and bulletins informing the people of the value of
bird-life. Many States have monumental volumes or sets of volumes
on their birds which are not only scientifically accurate but artistical-
ly beautiful. Bird and game sanctuaries and refuges, either private.
State or National are being created constantly. Legislation is en-
acted' every year in favor of birds. At the present time our laws
and law-enforcing officials are admirably protecting our wild-life.
All in all, it would seem that the people of Pennsylvania, along
with the residents of other States, have awakened from their careless
lethargy of the past century, to a full sense of the value of their
heritage of wild-life, and are employing all possible means not only
to keen intact what is left of that noble assemblage of creatures
which "formerly ranged our fields an.l woods, but to encourage tuein
to increase, and even, when advisal>le. to reinstate species whose
numbers have so diminished that they have l^ecome virtually extinct
All this widespread interest has resulted in a fair knowledge of
the value of bird-life. For those who are alrea<ly aware of this value

i

there is no need of any array of facts and arguments such as is pre-
sented in this l)ulletin, unless these statements he simply a means of
keeping alive an interest which is instinctive.

In spite of this interest, however, there is an amazing lack of ac-
curate knowledge concerning bird-life. Everywhere are there people
who know only about ten of the species which occur in their vicinity.
Most people do not see more than two or three kinds of birds in
winter. In the city there are even now children whose bird ac-
quaintances are limited to but one or two species, and who quite
naturally think that other kinds are to be found only in circuses or
zoos. And the fact that each species of bird has a definite place in
the plan of Nature, with particular food-habits, well-defined geo-
graphical range, average dates and known routes of migration, spe-
cific moults, and innumerable habits which are characteristic and as
unchanging as the course of the seasons, is utterly unknown to most
people. The average person knows about thirty kinds of birds
fairly well, at least so that he can describe them to an extent, but
the birds he names are not always local species in which he should

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 3. PRAIRIE HORNED LARK FEEDING YOUNG
The flight song of this species rivals that of the Skylark.

be most interested. They are often exotic forms such as the Ostrich,
Penquin, Albatross, Pelican, or Swan. To such an average layman
the many beautiful species of our large families of common birds
such as the warl)lers and finches usually pass as "wild canaries

»»

or "sparrows" in a general way, just as wading birds are all "snipes"
and unknown grebes and ducks "dippers." At the present time
we cannot present material which will help the bird student to
identify all of our birds, since our chief aim here is to create a correct
sense of the value of birds, and to foster a desire to protect them.
If we create this desire to protect birds we have practically won our
cause, for the protection of birds is certain to lead to a closer study,
more careful identification, and eventual understanding of them.

Fortunately, because of their humanitarian instincts, most people
who do not know our birds very well, or are not aware of their
value, have an innate desire to protect them. There are those who
seem to have no sense of conservation however, who would kill
any wild creature without concern in the effect of such killing.
There is also a locally increasing foreign-born element in our popu-
lation which has a perverted sense of the value of birds, and which
must learn either gracefully or by rigid enforcement of law that
our wild-life is a valued possession of the people at large.

For use in dealing with these, and such as these, then; for the en-
couragement of all organizations which will welcome any recent
word on conservation of natural resources ; for use of schools where
developing citizens will benefit by any up-to-date discussion of a
subject of vital importance to them ;— for such uses as these is this
bulletin written with the hope that its sincerity will be understood
and appreciated. No attempt has been made to plead the cause of
birds more urgently than their good qualities honestly warrant.
To some readers it may seem that our defense of bird-life is not
strong enough; but these will surely sense our desire to be as just
to every living creature as is possible in a consideration of the prob-
lems of wild life conservation.

THE AESTHETIC VALUE OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Americans are known throughout the world as successful busi-
ness-men. Our practical knowledge of values has spread into every
field of endeavor, and our wealth is everywhere apparent. Our de-
sire for wealth has had bad effect at times, since it has blindly
sought immediate gain, forgetful of consequences. Thus have
forests been carelessly felled without a thought of using any but
the readilv salable products, and with no consideration of replant-
ing or careful selection of trees. Wholesale destruction of life in
many of our streams has come about as a direct result of careless-
ness in disposal of waste products from factories, mines, and such
industrial plants.

^ )

Jr.

Our wild birds and mammals during the past century received so
little protection that almost before we were conscious of our neglect,
certain species were on the verge of extermination. Some of these
creatures are gone forever; some have been saved. But when we

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 4. ROBIN FEEDING YOUNG
Robins frequently nest in such situations and appreciate boxes put out for them.

fully realized that some of our native birds were being wiped out,
a crusade of protection was inaugurated which has gained yearly
in power and influence. In order to show this practically minded
public the mistake it was making, the most arresting, powerful argu-
ment for conservation was produced, namely, that birds were saving
us, throughout the year, actual dollars and cents, by their destruc-
tion of insect-life. Such an argument was about the only one to
which the people at large would have listened. When the farmers
found that their yearly profits depended to a recognizable degree
on the feathered tenants of their land, their attitude changed from
that of indifferent on-lookers to that of interested guardians.

But after a painstaking and fair-minded survey of bird-life, and
a sympathetic study of the papers which have been published re-
garding their value and conservation, it seems wise to state that the
greatest value of birds is their aesthetic value. Anyone bold enough
to make this statement in view of our practical instincts, at once

riin<3 thf» ri«;lr r^i hpintr lirPnH#»H a cpntitnonfolicf- Vtnf if cIiomIH Ka

understood that there is no false note in such a sentiment as the
writer has in mind. Furthermore, far-seeing students of the situa-
tion everywhere are likely of the same opinion, and when every
citizen comes to realize fully the aesthetic value of our natural

6

or ''sparrows" in a general way, just as wadinj^ birds are all "snipes"
and unknown grebes and ducks "dippers." At the present time
we cannot i)resent material which will help the bird student to
identify all of our birds, since our chief aim here is to create a correct
sense of the value of birds, and to foster a desire to protect them.
If we create this desire to protect birds we have practically won our
cause, for the protection of birds is certain to lead to a closer study,
more careful identification, and eventual understanding of them.

Fortunatelv, because of their humanitarian instincts, most people
who do not know our birds very well, or are not aware of their
value, have an innate desire to protect them. There are those who
seem to have no sense of conservation however, who w^ould kill
anv wild creature without concern in the effect of such killing.
There is also a locally increasing foreign-born element in our popu-
lation which has a perverted sense of the value of birds, and which
must learn either gracefully or by rigid enforcement of law that
our wild-life is a valued possession of the people at large.

For use in dealing wath these, and such as these, then; for the en-
couragement of all organizations which will welcome any recent
word on conservation of natural resources: for use of schools where
developing citizens will benefit by any up-to-date discussion of a
subject of vital importance to them ;- for such uses as these is this
bulletin written with the hope that its sincerity will be understood
and appreciated. No attempt has been made to plead the cause of
birds more urgently than their good (pialities honestly warrant.
To some readers it may seem that our defense of l)ird-life is not
strong enough ; but these will surely sense our desire to be as just
to every living creature as is possible in a consideration of the prob-
lems of wnld life conservation.

THE AESTHETIC VALUE OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Americans are known throughout the w(»rld as successful busi-
ness-men. Our practical knowledge of values has spread into every
field of endeavor, and our wealth is everywhere apparent. Our de-
sire for wealth has had bad effect at times, since it has blindly
sought inunediate gain, forgetful of consequences. Thus have
forests been carelessly felled without a thought of using any but
the readily salable ])r()ducts, and with no consideration of replant-
ing or careful selection of trees. Wholesale destruction of life in
many of our streams has come about as a direct result of careless-
ness in disposal of waste products from factories, mines, and such
industrial plants.

Our wild birds and mammals during the past century received so
little protection that almost before we w^ere conscious of our neglect,
certain species were on the verge of extermination. Some of these
creatures are gone forever; some have been saved. But when we

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 4. ROBIN FEEDING YOUNG
Robins frequently nest in such situations and appreciate boxes put out for them.

fully realized that some of our native birds were being wiped out,
a crusade of protection was inaugurated which has gained yearly
in power and influence. In order to show this practically minded
public the mistake it was making, the most arresting, powerful argu-
ment for conservation was i)roduced, namely, that l)irds were saving
us, throughout the year, actual dollars and cents, by their destruc-
tion of insect-life. Such an argument was about the (mly one to
which the people at large would have listened. When the farmers
found that their yearly profits depended to a recognizable degree
on the feathered tenants of their land, their attitude changed from
that of indifferent on-lookers to that of interested guardians.

But after a painstaking and fair-minded survey of bird-life, and
a sympathetic study of the papers which have been published re-
garding their value and conservation, it seems wise to state that the
greatest value of birds is their aesthetic value. Anyone bold enough
to make this statement in view^ of our practical instincts, at once
runs the risk of being branded a 'Sentimentalist. !)ut it should he
understood that there is no false note in such a sentiment as the
writer has in mind. Furthermore, far-seeing students of the situa-
tion everywhere are likely of the same opinion, and when every
citizen comes to realize fully the aesthetic value of our natural

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

8

resources Pennsylvania will have perceptibly advanced as a civi-
lized commonwealth. In the very nature of the case it is impossible
to precisely estimate aesthetic values, nor do we need to. We do
not seem to demand any estimation of the value in leaves, stems
or roots of any harmless and beautiful flower in order to wish its
protection, and as a rule we do not need any computation of profits
and losses when we seek to prevent the destruction of a graceful
water-fall. Our desire for the perpetuation of these beautiful things
is nothing but the result of a tremendous aesthetic valuation of
them.

Nothing is more distasteful to the scientist than a half-hearted
or ignorant sentimentality such as sometimes exists among amateur
students. A careful study of Biology leads the scientist to believe
that grief plays very little part in the lives of birds and mammals.
The wholesale destruction of life by the elements and other natural
causes is wisely balanced by a tremendous over-production which
will assure the perpetuation of all species unless there are over-
whelming factors, such as human machines of destruction, which
intervene.

False sentimentality has no place in genuine bird-study. Such
sentimentality regards a hawk which captures smaller birds as
wicked, and forgets that the smaller birds cause just as much death,
if not actually more, when they capture numerous small insects.
The pursuit of food is a killing ])rocess, direct or indirect, among all
living creatures of the earth. False sentimentality is the sort of
thing which brands a boy morally bad because he wants to collect
a bird's egg. The truly broad-minded bird-lover realizes that it is
a normal predatory instinct in the boy which attends a period of his
growth that leads him into the field to kill and plunder. His desire
to collect specimens should not be thought bad or even undesirable.
It should simply be directed into the channels w^hich bring about a
desire to protect wild life and aflford the greatest real satisfaction
to the boy. We are aware that some boys with guns become ruth-
less in their killing. Laws exist for the regulation of such boys; but
I am heartily in sympathy with the young chap who wants to as-
semble some sort of a nature-study collection, and if properly advised
and encouraged, the boy's experience with natural history objects
may be among the most valuable developing factors in his life.

Our particular consideration at present is directed, however, to-
ward the aesthetic value of birds. When we rate so highly these
intangible qualities of our bnus Id it not be thought tiiat \vc are
forgetting their pronounced economic value. The splendid work
of the staff of the Biological Survey of the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture, and other scientists, in amassing facts from a
detailed study of life histories of birds, and the most scholarly in-

^r,

> »

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro,

Fig. 5. A FEMALE RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD

These dainty visitors from the tropics capture only the smallest insects,
which they eat with the nectar from flowers.

vestigation of their stomach contents is not to be overlooked or
under-rated in this connection. The splendid measures thus far
achieved for conservation of our bird-life have been brought about
largely through the influence of this work. But I am compelled
to ask : Are we never to realize and admit that our most sincere
reason for protecting birds is simply that we want them as they
are about us, whether they are each saving our State so many cents
apiece annually or not? The sooner we come to admit this the
more whole-hearted will our protective instincts be, and the more
sympathetic we will be toward birds whose food habits may not
have been favorably regarded.

It is true that the really interested have always felt this. For the
genuine naturalist no arguments for jirotection of wild life need
be offered. But we believe the time has come when birds are
valued by the peo])le at large as well as by naturalists. As has been
previously suggested, there are and always will be people to whom
even the most beautiful wild creatures will mean nothing more than
so many commercially usable feathers, or so much meat; but such

The aesthetic qualities of birds influence the lives of hutnan beings.
Spirited and many colored creatures that they are, birds have some-
how become part of the experience of all of us. lairds of unusual
song or brilliant plumage have attracted us. Game birds have lured

10

sportsmen to the open sir and its health and charms since the days
of our Pilgrim Fathers. Even the little city urchin has a place in
his daily life for English Sparrows of the street, — drab little urchins
themselves, that must somehow stand for and take the place of
the woods and fields which the "newsy" is ever denied.

Bird-song in its varied forms is the most beautiful and musical
sound of the outdoors. True, as the poets have said, there is music
in water-falls, in wind blowing through trees, and even more literally
speaking, in the strange and often tuneful sounds produced by in-
sects and other animals of higher development. But in bird-song
chiefly is there music. The harsh caw of a Crow, together with all
the queer calls which many species are known to give, do not merit

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 6. CEDAR WAXWINGS EATING APPLES

This attractive type of food-counter may be used as a bird-bath

during summer.

%>««•-«<>• f-.-.t1«r^ c^^ir*" V«i«4- i( nr^t't-tnet r«ti*»of «r»ri<; ♦•r»*» nV^tM^v OT ^Of*^** r>if*nc

lL/till«i Ct*liW^ i5»Jlit, l^rLik li tiii> *ji»C k-j ».*s,D tiVJliD vi>w t* i-/ » • * v^ vJL Ovjij.*)^ uii-iw

to produce music, we ask him to journey to the deep woods where
Hermit Thrushes are chanting in that damp realm of ferns, mosses
and old trunks, or to a wind-swept promontory where a Horned
Lark sings his shy hymn to the sun, or to a sunny slope where a

' I

V

11

flock of Purple Finches, after a meal of weed-seeds, suddenly break
forth into a rollocking dhorus— each singing his own version of the
Song of Life, and making the very twig upon which he is sittmg
beat a sprightly, irregular time to the music. And, to refer to more
common bird-neighbors, is there a person in Pennsylvania who has
not responded to the cheerful if modest medley of the Song Sparrow
early in April, the hesitant warblings of a Robin at evening, or even
the moonlit quavering of a Screech Owl? Famous composers of
music the world over have acknowledged the charm of bird melody;
and there is said to be a direct connection between certain well
known strains of our best music and portions of wild bird-song.

Color of bird plumage too has charmed us. The spirited flash of
a male Cardinal always commands admiration; and we pause in
wonder at the lazy flame of a Scarlet Tanager moving through the
leaves. Red is always thrilling. And who has not sensed his in-
ability to believe the subtle iridescence of an Indigo Bunting's blue--
or the vibrant turquoise on a common Blue Jay's wing?

But birds mean much to us for their attractive ways alone, and
for their confidence in us. Thus are House Wrens, Chipping
Sparrows, Purple Martins, and other species almost members of our
human families ; and it is surprising to note how often these birds
actually seem to depend on us for neighborly protection. Rarely
are Chipping Sparrows seen anywhere but near human habitations,

Photograph by Refuge Keeper Ralph Ewing, Lykcns.

Fig. 7. YOUNG MARSH HAWKS IN THEIR NEST

The food habits of the Marsh Hawk are variable; at certain seasons

they are decidedly beneficial.

E— 3

10

sportsmen to the open vir and its health and charms since the days
of our Pilgrim h\ithers. Even the little city urchin has a place in
his daily life for luiglish Sparrows of the street,— drab little urchins
themselves, that must somehow stand for and take the place of
the woods and fields which the "newsy" is ever denied.

]iird-song in its varied forms is the most beautiful and musical
sound of the outdoors. True, as the poets have said, there is music
in water-falls, in wind blowing through trees, and even more literally
speaking, in the strange and often tuneful sounds produced by in-
sects and other animals of higher development. But in bird-song
chiefly is there music. The harsh caw of a Crow, together with all
the queer calls which many species are known to give, do not merit

Photograph by Frank Pagan, WeIlsl)oro.

Fig. 6. CEDAR WAXWINGS EATING APPLES

This attractive type of food-counter may be used as a bird-bath

during summer.

being called song, but if anyone 'juestions the abilit}'^ of some birds
to produce music, we ask him to journey to the deep woods where
Hermit Thrushes are chanting in that damp realm of ferns, mosses
and old trunks, or to a wind-swept ])roraontory where a Horned
Lark sings his shy hymn to the sun, or to a sunny slope where a

' i

•r f ^

* \

.- I

#- '

11

flock of Purple Finches, after a meal of weed-scods, suddenly break
forth into a rollocking t^horus— each singing his own version of the
Song of Life, and making the very twig upon which he is sittuig
beat a sprightly, irregular time to the music. And, to refer to more
common bird-neighbors, is there a person in Pennsylvania who has
not responded to the cheerful if modest medley of the Song Sparrow
earlv in April, the hesitant warblings of a Robin at evening, or even
the moonlit ('piavering of a Screech Owl? Famous composers ot
music the world over have acknowledged the charm of bird melody;
and there is said to be a direct connection between certain well
known strains of our best music and portions of wild bird-song.

Color of bird plumage too has charmed us. The spirited Hash of
a male Cardinal ahvavs commands admiration; and we pause in
wonder at the lazv llame of a Scarlet Tanager moving through tlie
leaves. Red is always thrilling. And who has not sensed his in-
ability to believe the subtle iridescence of an Indigo lUinting's blue—
or the vibrant turcpioise on a common P.lue Jay's wmg?

But bin's mean much to us for their attractive ways alone, and
for their confidence in us. riuis are House Wrens. Chipping
Sparrows, Purple Martins, and other species alnmst members of our
human families; and it i> sur].rising to note how (»flen these birds
actuallv seem to dei)en(l on us for neighborly i)rolection. Rarely
are Chipping Sparrows seen anywhere but near human habitaticms,

'^^M9b,

Photograph by Refuge Keeper Kaiph twing. Lykens.

Fig. 7. YOUNG MARSH HAWKS IN THEIR NEST

The food habits of the Marsh Hawk are variable; at certain seasons

they are decidedly beneficial.

E— 3

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

12

and Purple Martins have so come to rely upon man-made nesting
boxes that it is almost impossible to find them rearing their young
in hollow trees. Chimney Swifts and Barn Swallows, while not so
intimate, nest almost exclusively about man's buildings.

Thus, whether we have sensed it or not, the songs of birds, the
color of their plumage, and their grace of flight and interesting
ways have meant a great deal to us.

All Nature is an illimitable source of poise and happiness to every
human being. Not all schools of philosophers agree that happiness
is a worthy aim of existence, but we somehow sense that anything
wthich makes us really happier is valuable to us.

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 8. BLUEBIRD AT NEST
Illustrating a well built and well placed rustic nesting box.

V

i.*

4

4

•f
^

13
THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Since birds are to be so highly valued for their aesthetic qualities
it is gratifying to find that most of them are also economical assets
with'kn important share in making the earth a habitable place for
mankind. The most uninformed layman if queried as to the food
of any small bird would probably answer, "Bugs". And careful in-
vestigation has shown that insects form an overwhelmingly large

proportion of bird-food.

That the destruction of injurious insects by any agent whatever
is an economic benefit is only too evident to every farmer, gardener,
horticulturist or orchardist. To such men the insect problem is one
of the ever unsolved problems of existence. A brief consideration of
insects is not out of place here, for a better understanding of their
place in nature, and a clearer estimation of the value of birds in

aiding in their control.

Of the million known species of insects many are such devastating
agents of destruction of plant life that they have threatened nations
with starvation. It is not, however, the number of injurious species
of insects which causes this so much as the appalling ability of any
single harmful kind to reproduce to numbers almost beyond com-
prehension. When we know the capacity of each individual insect
to eat and therefore destroy, plant food, we begin to glimpse the
possible destructive force of any one species of insect in the world.
And when it is borne in mind that some of these injurious forms
live upon certain plants exclusively we can see that the very exist-
ence of grains, orchard-trees, and other food plants definitely de-
pends upon a constant regulation of the insects which feed iipot.
them It has been determined that certain caterpillars consume
twice their own weight in leaves daily throughout their whole larval
existence. Some caterpillars, in the course of their thirty-day de-
velopment increase in size ten thousand times, as a result only of
leaf-eating. When it is learned that it is possible for a female
insect to be the ancestor of sixty million of its kind in a single
season we can see that regulating destructive forces must be ever-
lastinHy at work, or the very earth would soon be an impenetrable
mass of insect life. The United States Department of Agriculture
at Washington has determined that agricultural losses through in-
sects each year amount to, if they do not exceed, ten per cent of
the entire production. In some States this loss is even higher, and
during some years this is true in Pennsylvama.

It is evident then, that in view of our dependence upon vegfetable
food, injurious insects are among the most serious enemies of
man Birds are a powerful factor in the regulation of insects. The

12

and Purple Martins have so come to rely upon man-made nesting
boxes that it is almost impossible to find them rearin*^ their young
in hollow trees. Chimney Swifts and P.arn Swallows, while not so
intimate, nest almost exclusi\ely about man's buildings.

Thus, whether we ha\e sensed it or not. the songs of birds, the
color of their ])lumage, and their grace of tlight and interesting
wa\ s ha\ e meant a great deal to us.

All Nature is an illimitable source of poise and happiness to every
human being. Xot all schools of philosophers agree that happiness
is a worthy aim of existence, but we somehow sense that an\'thing
w'hich makes us really hai)])ier is valuable to us.

. I

\ -

Photograph by Frank Pagan, VV'elisboro.

Fig. 8. BLUEBIRD AT NEST
Illustrating a well built and well placed rustic nesting box.

13
THE ECONOMIC VALUE OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Since birds are to be so highly valued for their aesthetic qualities
it is gratifying to find that most of them are also economical assets
w^ith'an important share in making the earth a habitable place for
mankind. The most uninformed layman if queried as to the food
of any small bird would probably answer, "Bugs". And caretul in-
vestigation has shown that insects form an overwhelmingly large

proportion of bird-food.

That the destruction of injurious insects by any agent whatever
is an economic benefit is only too evident to every farmer, gardener,
horticulturist or orchardist. To such men the insect problem is one
of the ever unsolved i)roblems of existence. A brief consideration of
insects is not out of place here, for a better understanding of their
place in nature, and a clearer estimation of the value of birds in

aiding in their control.

Of the million known species of insects many are such devastating
a-ents of destruction of plant life that they have threatened nations
w^ith starvation. It is not, however, the number ni injurious species
of insects which causes this so much as the appalling ability of any
single harmful kind to re])roduce to numbers almost beyond com-
prehension. When we know the capacity of each individual insect
to eat and therefore destrov, plant food, we begin to glimpse the
possible destructive force of any one species of insect in the world.
And when it is borne in mind that some of these injurious forms
live upon certain plants exclusively we can see that the very exist-
ence of grains, orchard-trees, and other food plants definitely de-
pends upon a constant regulation of the insects which feed upot,
them It has been determined that certain caterpillars consume
twice their own weight in leaves daily throughout their whole larval
existence. Some caterpillars, in the course of their thirty-day de-
velopment increase in size ten thousand times, as a result only of
leaf-eating. When it is learned that it is possible for a fema e
insect to be the ancestor of sixty million of its kind in a single
season we can see that regulating destructive forces must be ever-
lastinglv at work, or the very earth would soon be an impenetrable
mass of insect life. The Ignited States Department of Agriculture
at Washington has determined that agricultural losses through in-
sects each vear amount to. if they do not exceed, ten per cent o
the entire production. In some States this loss is even higher, and
during some years this is true in Pennsylvania.

DESTROYERS OF INSECTS
It is evident then, that in view of our dependence upon vegetable
food, injurious insects are among the most serious enemies of
man Birds are a powerful factor in the regulation of insects. The

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

14

rearing of the young: birds occurs usually during early summer, at
the time of the greatest abundance of insects. Young birds require,
like the caterpillars, a tremendous amount of food, and sometimes eat
considerably over their own weight each day. The food of young
birds is, as a rule, insects. Therefore the increase of birds, by the
production of their young in the spring, parallels the increase of in-
sects, and definitely prevents the development of an insect scourge.
During winter millions of eggs and dormant forms of insects are
eaten by birds. This winter-consumption is an important part of the
insect-regulating program of bird-life.

Without the least desire to under-rate the value of birds as in-
sect regulators it is only fair to call attention, however, to other
factors of control of which bird students in particular, are too often
unaware. It is correct for us to value birds as indispensable to
human existence, but for us to form the notion that the life of our
field and forests, and indirectly that of man, depends entirely upon
birds, is failing to acknowledge the importance of one of the great-
est insect-regulating factors there are — namely the insects them-
selves. It is so easy for us to value these birds which we like, and
so easy to class as undesirable all insects (whether we know them
or not) because we do not like them, that we take no account of the
insects whose existence depends wholly upon and whose ceaseless
efforts are expended in devouring other insects — predatory beetles
which attack the ground-inhabiting species; dragon flies and their
relatives which patrol the air; wasps, some of them microscopic in
size, whose perpetuation of species depends upon the parasitism of
caterpillars, and a host of other forms. Spiders are not especially
enjoyed by us; and yet a little thought will bring to mind their
countless webs which have been woven for a principal purpose — the
capture of insects. The average ornithologist can easily forget in
his zeal for defense of birds, that bats are wholly insectivorous, as
are many other mammals — even some which are occasionally rated
as carnivorous "vermin". Fish also eat insects. Any friend of the
common garden toad will ceaselessly praise him for his insect-kill-
ing propensities, and there are numerous reptiles which live on prac-
tically nothing but insects. When we consider, therefore, first that
all insects are not, as so many suppose, undesirable, and second that
there are many other forces which are regulating insect life aside
from birds, we can see that statements which lead us to regard birds
as our only saviours from starvation, are wrong. And yet not for an
instant uo we lesss ni^niv iCf;rt»n kj^t o^^^j. .»-- a. . .^ — ^
simply understand the situation better, and are more magnanimous
in our decisions.

Nevertheless a more detailed account of the part birds play in
regulating insects may well be considered here. Birds, like most

4

" ^

^

r I

15

animal forms, are adapted to particular habitats. Some are equipped
with long muscular wings, bodies built on speed lines for the least
air resistance possible, and small feet,— all adaptations for an aerial
existence; others have stiff tails which are to be used as props,
strong feet for clinging, and chisel-like bills and barbed tongues, for
an existence on tree trunks ; others have large and strong feet for
terrestrial life ; others have very long necks and legs, for searching
food in the water ; and the feet of others are webbed for swimming.
Whatever this adaptation to environment may be, it is concerned
chiefly with the matter of procuring food, since upon food depends

existence.

Insects too are adapted to these different environments. Thus
we find various types of birds preying upon, almost exclusively too,
the kinds of insects that are found in their environment. Swallows.
Swifts, and Nighthawks prey almost altogether on insects which
they find in the air. Woodpeckers, Creepers, and Nuthatches, which
are adapted to a tree-trunk existence are ceaseless in their search
for eggs of various insects which are hidden in the crevices, and for

Photograph by Robert J. Sim, Riverton, N. J.

Fig. 9. NIGHTHAWK OR BULL-BAT BROODING YOUNG
A beneficial bird which captures insects on the wing.

larvae and other forms of various woodboreia, for which they some-
times have to work considerably. Fly-catchers capture insects prin-
cipally on the wing, but they capture the species which inhabit
woodlands which the Swallows and Swifts would likely never see.
Warblers, Vireos, Tanagers and other arboreal birds search th€

16

leaves and outer twigs for small insects ; Cuckoos plunder the webs
of caterpillars; Thruj^hes and some Sparrows and Warblers patrol
the forest floor; Meadowlarks, Blackbirds and similarly built species
are more or less confined to the open fields, and there are particular
species which as a rule are to be found in our yards, or the orchard,
or the truck garden.

Thus the farmer, forester, or gardener who is interested in par-
ticular problems of insect control may learn to depend on the
aid of certain species of birds The potato-grower learns that Rose-
breasted Grosbeaks, Bobwhites, Ring-necked Pheasants and Wild
Turkeys eat potato beetles; the orchardist, that Black-billed and
Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Baltimore Orioles, and others may be de-
pended upon to destroy caterpillars; the farmer, that Meadowlarks,
Robins and even the oft-maligned Bronzed and Purple Crackles,
destroy a great many cut-worms, and that some Hawks and Owls
are almost confined in their food habits to capturing mice or grass-
hoppers !

Our study of the vast and intricate relationships in nature is still
in its infancy. But we have gone far enough to know that food
habits of birds are variable not only throughout the year but also
in dififerent sections, and that the truly wide-awake farmer must
himself determine to what extent his birds are helping or hindering
him. But his finding Bronzed or Purple Crackles in a young corn
field, or even seeing them pull up the blades, should not without
careful investigation be proof to him that the birds are eating his
corn. Only too often are such blackbirds searching cut-worms, and
their only reason for pulling out the corn is that the stalk has already
been cut off by the grub and the way must be cleared for capturing

the insect !

Even the Crow, whose reputation is usually very black, has been
found to destroy the large tomato and tobacco worms, which, partly
on account of their size, are not eaten by most birds.

WEED-SEED CONSUMERS

Not only are birds a powerful factor in the regulation of insects,
but many species are of value in eating weed-seed. In all fairness
we must again make an admission, however, in our consideration of
the bird's value as a weed-seed eater. As has been stated before
there is a tremendous overproduction in Nature which insures the
nprnptnation of snecies of plants and animals in spite of all the
normal agencies that are arrayed against them. Seeds of plants
are exposed to so many adverse circumstances that biologicalH' an
overproduction is necessary to their very existence. Again we must
remember that birds are only one of the many factors which regulate
weeds. In all fairness it must be admitted too that certain hard-

V. «

-

17

shelled seeds of some small fruits, when eaten by birds are not
destroyed by the digestive process, but are simply carried about
by the birds and deposited favorably for subsequent germination and
growth. Some birds,, however, are almost restricted, particularly at
certain seasons, to a diet of weed-seeds, which are destroyed when
eaten. Many Sparrows eat almost nothing else during the winter.
Bobwhites, Mourning Doves, and various smaller birds of the open
fields and brushy fence rows, depend on weed-seeds for a portion,
and sometimes most of their food. Therefore the farmer is not to
forget that his winter bird visitors are helping him in his problem of
w^eed control to a recognizable degree.

REGULATORS OF OTHER PESTS

Many hawks and owls capture field mice and other small mam-
mals which are enemies of the farmer. While the food of such birds
of prey is not often strictly limited to these creatures, it is safe to
state that whenever field mice are especially abundant the food of
all predatory species at once consists chiefly of them, and at such
times some birds, like the Crow, which do not ordinarily figure
prominently in such matters also include mice in their diet. In a
biological understanding of the regulation of field mice and similar
pests we should not forget, however, that snakes and certain
carnivorous mammals also have a share.

GAME BIRDS

We can hardly overestimate the importance of game birds and
mammals to our forefathers. In early days the food problems
of the settlers were sometimes difficult to solve, and there is no
doubt that Wild Turkeys, Ruffed Grouse, and other splendid game
birds at times actually saved the frontiersman from starvation. To-
day we do not depend upon our game birds for food, for we have an
abundance of meat of other varieties; but the presence of game birds,
and their luring of sportsmen to the open air and its valuable life-
giving qualities, means a good deal more to Pennsylvania's citizens
than is ordinarilv supposed. Our State's 600,000 hunters are better
men because thev make contacts with the out-of-doors annually;
and it is because' we have succeeded in maintaining an adequate
supply of game that these men are interested so deeply in the pro-
tection and increase of game bird-life.

The toregoing discussiuii, as wc btaicu ui. i.ii^ wtk^^ww, .. ,^^ ..wi.
award our birds unqualified praise. In our remarks we have at-
tempted to be fair to all wild-life. Such a conception of Nature is
slowly dawning upon us, and anything we can do to aid in such an
understanding of our wild creatures is worthwhile. We have learned

18

•y

Photograph by Ralph B. Simpson, Warren.

Fig. 10. NEST OF RUFFED GROUSE

One reason game birds are able to persist in spite of their many enemies

is that they lay large sets of eggs.

that birds are a welcome part of the existence we are enjoying
in the world ; that they are constantly helping us in our problems of
living, and that we therefore wish to protect them. May we not then
deem it worthwhile to study the needs of birds that we may better
know how to protect and attract them?

• I

I "

-

19
THE ENEMIES OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

If we are to understand birds and help them we must acquaint
ourselves with their problem of existence. The foregoing discus-
sion has stressed heavily the food-supply of birds, for finding of
food is the principal problem in the life of all living creatures. Of
but slightly lesser importance however, is the problem of evading
or overcoming enemies— and every living thing is faced with this

problem also.

Disease of birds is sometimes serious; but our regulation of such
disease is in the nature of the case almost impossible. Abrupt
changes of the weather such as freezes just after rains may cause
great loss of bird-life, just as tornadoes, hail-storms, and hurricanes
sometimes do; but these factors are largely beyond our control.
Forest f^res are terrific scourge, and every possible means should
be used to prevent them. Although we cannot regulate tempera-
ture, we may save our bird-life from actual starvation at times when
ice or deep snow has covered their food-supply, or where for some
reason or other their normal food is scarce.

Predatory mammals including man, rapacious birds, and reptiles
are the most serious direct enemies of bird-life. In regions where
Wildcats, Raccoons, Foxes, Skunks, Weasels, Red Squirrels, Oppos-
sums, Rats, certain snakes and Snapping Turtles, some hawks and
owls. Crows, and occasionally other carnivorous birds are abundant,
any of these creatures may be a great menace. Often the ground-
nesting birds are particularly preyed upon. If there is an over-abun-
dance of these predatory animals a carefully managed campaign of
reduction seems to be our only means of improving conditions. Care
should be used, however, that blame be laid upon the proper animals.
Great injustice may be meted out to certain creatures unless it is
certain that these creatures are doing the damage ; and too often a
wholesale slaughter brings nothing but worse conditions in its wake
because the situation was not fully understood in the first place.

FEATHERED ENEMIES OF BIRDS

Not all birds of prey are enemies of birds. Among the hawks
the large Goshawk, somewhat smaller Cooper's Hawk and Duck
Hawk, and the small Sharp-shinned Hawk and Pigeon Hawk are
the principal enemies of birds. The Goshawk is usually not com-
mon but if it does occur is a particular enemy of the Ruffed Grouse.
During some winter^ there is a southward movement of Goshawks
which'' is a serious menace to Pennsylvania bird-life. The Duck
Hawk and Pigeon Hawk are also comparatively rare. The Cooper's
Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk are quite common locally and are
great destroyers of small birds. The Marsh Hawk, particularly dur-

18

PhotoRraph hy Ralph B. Simpson, Warren.

Fig. 10. NEST OF RUFFED GROUSE

One reason game birds are able to persist in spite of their many enemies

is that they lay large sets of eggs.

that birds are a welcome part of the existence we are enjoying
in the world ; that they are constantly helping us in our problems of
living, and that we therefore wish to protect them. May we not then
deem it worthwhile to study the needs of birds that we may better
know how to protect and attract them?

1 ■

*■ I

•

' \

•- I ^

19
THE ENEMIES OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

If we are to understand birds and help ihem we must ac(iuaint
ourselves with their i)n)b1cm of existence. The foregoing discus-
sion has stressed heavily the food-supply of birds, for iinding of
food is the principal problem in the life of all living creatures. Of
but slightly lesser importance however, is the problem of evading
or overcoTuing enemies— and every living thing is faced with this

problem also.

Disease of birds is sometimes serious; but our regulation of such
disease is in the nature of the case almost impossible. Abrupt
changes of the weather such as freezes just after rains may cause
great loss of bird-life, just as tornadoes, hail-storms, and hurricanes
sometimes do; but these factors are largely beyond our control.
Forest f^res are terrific scourge, and every possible tueans should
be used to ]u-event them. Although we cannot regulate tempera-
ture, we may save our bird-life from actual starvation at times when
ice or deep snow has covered their food-sui)ply. or where for scmie
reason or other their normal food is scarce.

Predatory mammals including man, rapacious l)lrds, and reptiles
are the most serious direct enemies of bird-life. In regions where
Wildcats, Raccoons. Foxes, Skunks, Weasels, Red Scpiirrels. Oi)pos-
sums. Rats, certain snakes and Snapping Turtles, some hawks and
owls, Crows, and occasionally other carnivorous birds are abundant,
any of these creatures may i)e a great tuenace. Often the ground-
nesting birds are particularly preyed upon. If there is an over-abun-
dance of these predatory animals a carefully luanaged campaign of
reduction seems to ])e our only lueans of improving conditions. Care
should be used, however, that blame be laid ui)on the proper animals.
Great injustice may be meted out to certain creatures unless it is
certain that these creatures are doing the damage ; and too often a
wholesale slaughter brings nothing but worse conditions in its wake
because the situation was not fully understood in the first place.

FEATHERED ENEMIES OF BIRDS

Not all birds of prey are enemies of birds. Among the hawks
the K'lrge Goshawk, somewhat smaller Cooper's Hawk and Duck
Hawk, and the small Sharp-shinned Hawk and Pigeon Hawk are
the principal enemies of birds. The Goshawk is usually not cotu-
mon, but if it does occur is a particular eneiuy of the Ruffed Grouse.
During some winters there is a «!outhward movement of (Goshawks
which is a serious luenace to Pennsylvania bird-life. The Duck
Hawk and Pigeon Hawk are also comparatively rare. The Cooper's
Hawk and Sharp-shinned Hawk are quite common locally and are
great destrovers of small birds. The Marsh Hawk, particularly dur-

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

20

21

Fig. 11.

Drawing from life by George Miksch Sutton.

GOSHAWK ABOUT TO ATTACK

The Goshawk is one of our most ferocious birds of prey; it is the arch enemy

of all small game birds and animals.

ing its nesting season, may be an enemy of swamp-loving and
meadow-inhabiting birds, but is usually not a serious offender.
Other hawks take birds only occasionally.

The Great Horned Owl is the chief killer of birds among his tribe.
He is a particular enemy of the Ruffed Grouse and when numerous
may be a terrific marauder. He is not usually abundant however.
The Screech Owl sometimes kills smaller birds but this habit is
largely restricted to the nesting season and is not serious otherwise.
The other owls which occur commonly in Pennsylvania are not
to be considered harmful. The Barn, Long-eared, Short-eared, and
Saw-whet Owls may be rated as beneficial birds. The big Barred
Owl is variable in food habits, and sometimes does damage.

*

■v

. S ..

^'<

f *■ M

J^

Photograph by Samuel S. Dickey, Cambridge Springs.

Fig. 12. GREAT HORNED OWL
A serious enemy of all game birds, including the Wild Turkey.

The Crow is destructive during the nesting season. There is no
doubt that he eats eggs and young birds. When Crows are too
abundant a certain amount of killing, regulated properly, has good
effect since there is little danger of exterminating Crows. This
statement is not to be construed, however, as sanctioning State or
Nation-wide Crow-killing contests, which may have very ill effects.

The Blue Jay, like the Crow, is occasionally a serious enemy of
smaller birds, in that he eats eggs and captures young birds. But
these atrocities do not seriously reduce the small-bird population

as a rule.

English Sparrows are chiefly to be censured for their domineering
traits. At the winter feeding-counter they combine in such a way
as to benefit themselves at the expense of other birds. In the spring
they are a constant menace at nesting-houses. I have watched
maie sparrowis at a vvicn ui Miu^.>..^. ^..kj^^^ ^w. ..
trusion appeared to be purely arrogant. There were about six male
sparrows which took turn all day annoying the wrens. The English
Sparrow does not deserve much praise or protection. It were better
had he never been introduced in America. If he can by any means

22

be exterminated without endangering our native birds, we will
benefit by it. Pehaps, however, the status of this introduced species

will change.

The Starling is relentless in stealing and occupying nesting sites
which should be the property of our native birds. Particularly
are the species which nest in cavities molested. I once saw a pair
of Starlings drive Flickers from their recently drilled nest, by
carrying straws in so fast that the Flickers were apparently be-
wildered and left. Were the Starling removed our native bird
population would benefit thereby. The Starlings are, it must be
admitted, beautiful and interesting birds, but they have not yet
proved themselves worthy of protection in Pennsylvania.

The Bronzed Grackle, Red-headed Woodpecker, and even the
House Wren may be accused of some damage to eggs or young
of other desirable birds. Crackles develop individualistic egg-eating
habits which are culpable. House Wrens sometimes puncture the
eggs of their feathered neighbors in a purely malicious way !*

But viewed from the standpoint of the smaller birds of our State
one of the most serious enemies is the Cowbird. As is well known,
this bird makes no nest. When the female Cowbird has found the
nest of a smaller bird where she intends to lay her own eggs, she
may remove one or two or all the eggs of the owner before deposit-
ing her own. Nor is this the whole story. Even if she does not
remove the other eggs, the young Cowbird after hatching is so
much larger that he is likely to crowd the rightful owners out of
the nest, or cause their starvation by claiming all the food. If the
Cowbird were especially beautiful or beneficial we might overlook
this habit, but as it is, he seems to be only a means of reducing
the numbers of other birds more desirable than himself. Neverthe-
less it must be admitted that the presence of the Cowbird has not
noticeably aflfected the abundance of the small birds into whose
home life it intrudes. .

THE DOMESTIC CAT

Among all the enemies of birds-^be it bird, beast, reptile, or even
man himself — there is no more cunning or promiscuous a killer than
the half-wild, half-fed (and even occasionally well-fed) house cat.
Their attacks on birds are often little short of fiendish. More than
once I have seen a well-fed house cat deliberately corner a fledgling
Robin to toy with it in a cruel way as long as permitted. Once I
rescued a screaming young cat-bird from a cat, only to find that both
wings had been torn off, and that the bird was nearly dead from loss

^his habit may be an effort on the part of the Wrens to so decrease the number of young
birds in their community that their own young may be more easily fed and reared. See Bird-
Lore, March-April, 1925, Volume XXVII, No. 2, for remarks on habits of the House Wren,
by Miss Althea R. Sherman.

23

>s-

Photograph by W. Card Conklin, Harrisburg.

Fig. 13. CAT WITH WARBLER
The house cat is a terrific foe of bird-life.

of blood. Cats are unusually serious because they are not only
naturally cunning, but have learned much from their association
with human beings. H such cats were especially beautiful creatures,
or in their half-wild state compensated in some way for the damage
done in eating birds, the case against them might not be so certain.
But observations have determined that the food of such cats is at
certain seasons almost restricted to young birds whenever such food
is av.iilable. Farmers value cats about their premises as rat and
mouse killers, and cats do to a varying degree help in this respect.
As a rule really well cared for cats which are house pets, do not do
serious d'amage to bird-life. But there can be but one solution to
the feral cat problem : Shoot the cat, or kill him somehow ; and com-
pel owners of cats to control them or pay for their neglect to do so.
Perhaps it is because the cat is not a native creature, and often
lives upon our wild-life without contributing economic benefit,
beauty or sportmanlike methods to his environment, that we dis-
like him so. The only safe cat is one absolutely under control at
all times, particularly during the nesting season.*

MAN

We who are interested in birds consider ourselves their greatest
protectors. But it must be admitted that Man has been and un-
fortunately still is in some regions a terribly destructive enemy of
bird-life. The gun is a dread weapon in the hands of the unscru-

- ♦See bulletin on "The Domestic Cat" by E. H. Forbush, State House, Boston. Massachusetts.

22

be exterminated without endangering our native l)irds, we wdl
l^enefit l)y it. Pehaps, however, the status of this introduced species

will chan<^e.

The Starlinj^r is relenlless in stealing and occupyinj,^ nesting sites
which should be the i)roperty of our native birds. Particularly
are the species which nest in cavities molested. 1 once saw a pair
of Starlings drive I'Mickers from their recently drilled nest, by
carrying straws in so fast that ihe hMickers were ai)parently be-
wildered and left. Were the Starling removed our native bird
pojiulation would benefit thereby. The Starlings are. it must be
admitted, beautiful and interesting birds, but they have not yet
proved themselves worthy of i)rotection in Pennsylvania.

The Jironzed (hackle, Red-headed Woodpecker, and even the
House Wren may be accused of some damage to eggs or young
of other desirable birds. Grackles develop individualistic egg-eating
habits which are culpable. House Wrens sometimes puncture the
eggs of their feathered neighbors in a i)urely malicious way!*

liut viewed from the stand])oint of the smaller l)irds of our Slate
one of the most serious enemies is the Cowbird. As is well known,
this bird makes no nest. When the female Cowbird has found the
nest of a smaller bird where she intends to lay her own eggs, she
may remove one or two or all the eggs of the owner before deposit-
in'*- her own. Nor is this the whole story. ICven if she docs not
remove the other eggs, the young C'ow])ird after hatching is so
much larger that he is likely to crowd the rightful owners out of
the nest, or cause their starvation by claiming all the food. If the
Cowl)ird were especially beautiful or beneficial we might overlook
this habit, but as it is, he seems to be only a means of reducing
the numbers of other birds more desirable than himself. Neverthe-
less it must be admitted that the i)resence of the Cowbird has not
noticeably affected the abundance of the small birds into whose
home life it intrudes. .

THE DOMESTIC CAT

Among all the enemies of btrds— be it bird, beast, reptile, or even
man himself — there is no more cunning or i)romiscuous a killer than
the half-wild, half-fed (and even occasionally well-fed) house cat.
Their attacks on birds are often little short of fiendish. More than
once I have seen a well-fed house cat deliberately corner a fledgling
Robin to toy with it in a cruel way as long as permitted. Once I
rescued a screaming young cat-bird from a cat, only to find that both
wings had been torn off, and that the bird was nearly dead from loss

n^his habit may he an eflPort on the part of the Wrens to so decrease the number of young
birds in their community that their own young may be more easily fed and reared .See Bird-
Lore. March-April. 1925. Volume XXVII, No. 2, for remarks on habits of the House Wren,
by Miss Althca R. Sherman.

23

V-

Photograph by VV. Card Conklin. Harrisburg.

Fig. 13. CAT WITH WARBLER
The house cat is a terrific foe of bird-life.

of blood Cats are unusuallv serious because they are not only
naturally cunning, but have learned much from their association
with human beings. If such cats were especially beautiful creatures,
or in their half-wild state compensated in some way for the damage
done in eating birds, the case against them might not be so certain.
Hut observations have determined that the food of such cats is at
certain seasons almost restricted to young birds whenever such tood
is available. Farmers value cats abcmt their premises as rat and
mouse killers, and cats do to a varying degree help in this respect.
As a rule reallv well cared for cats which are house pets, do not do
serious d'amage to bird-life. P.ut there can be but one solution to
the feral cat problem : Shoot the cat, or kill him .somehow; and com-
pel owners of cats to control them or pay for their neglect to do so.
IVrhaps it is because the cat is not a native creature, and often
lives upon our wild-life without contributing economic benefit,
beautv or sportmanlike methods to his environment, that we dis-
like him so. The only safe cat is one absolutely under control at
all times, particularly during the nesting season.*

MAN

We who are interested in birds consider ourselves tlieif greatest
protectors. But it must be admitted that Man has been and un-
fortunately still is in .some regions a terribly destructive enemy of
bird-life, 'l^hc gun is a dread weapon in the hands of the unscru-

~V^7 bulletin on "The Dnmcstic Tat" by K. U. Forbush, State House, Boston, Massachusetts.

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

24

pulous. One has only to study the history of bird protection in
America to see what Man has done. The slaughter of game for the
market was, until only recently, unbelievably great, and sometimes
carried on with great cannon-like guns which killed at a single shot
whole flocks of ducks or shore birds. Man's part in the destruction
of the extinct Passenger Pigeon stands as evidence of his potency
as an enemy of birds. Every device conceivable was used for the
capture of these pigeons.

Photograph by Game Protector Miles Reeder, Mifflinburg.

Fig. 14. SPORTSMEN REGARD CROWS AS THE ENEMY OF GAME
State-wide Crow-killing contests are not to be encouraged, however be-
cause innocent birds too often suffer along with the guilty species. More-
over, Crows are not altogether bad.

Man's destruction of birds has been concerned not only with his
food supply, but also with what seems a most useless cause for
destruction— the millinery trade. The story of the development and
curbing of this amazing traffic, which has not by any means been
stopped, is one of the most shameful tales connected with human
afifairs. The destruction has been utterly vain. Our most beautiful
birds, only because they were beautiful, have suffered most severely
of all, and some of them have virtually been exterminated.

The craze for feather adornment led to the development of huge
slaughtering enterprises as part of the millinery trade. Entire
colonies of herons, gulls, terns, and other birds of America were
wiped out sometimes for only a small portion of the plumage of
each bird. Thus were only the nuptial plumes of American Egrets
and Snowy Herons stripped from their backs, the bodies thrown

25

aside to decay, and the motherless nestlings left to starve. Breasts
of Western Grebes were used, and only the wings of terns and
gulls. This millinery traffic has largely been stopped m North
America, but only sentiment against the wearing of bird plumage
will banish it completely.

Man has been an enemy of birds not only in his direct killmg
but he has caused their inevitable disappearance by invading and
dominating their normal range, by cutting or burning the forests
where they lived, by killing their food in the streams, and by drain-
ing and cultivating the places where they lived. Man cannot be
blamed too severely for this, for some of it is the most normal out-
come of civilization. But had care been used, when it was possible,
some of our vanished birds might still be with us.

We do not always realize that in killing certain birds and mam-
mals we thereby proportionately increase their destruction by natural
enemies, since these enemies, when permitted to live, have a smaller
supply of their normal food to depend upon and must therefore draw
more heavily on what is left. Thus when we find Great Horned
Owls killing Ruffed Grouse to the point of extermination we some-
times forget that through our efforts skunks, rabbits, and other
normal foods may have been so reduced that the owls are forced
to live almost altogether on the grouse. This is, however, no justi-
fication for permitting the owls to cause an extermination of grouse.

Fig. 15. VALUABLE BIRDS KILLED BY A FOREIGNER

4 Robins (I to 4); 1 Fh^kcr^ (5);^ Hairy^Woc^eckers^^^^^ Cedar

The foreign element in our population is a serious enemy of bird-
life Chief among these offenders are the Italians. The people of
that classically esteemed nation have so long regarded their smallest

26

and most beautiful birds as desirable only for food that the whole
Italian peninsula is almost devoid of birds— a condition which is
painfully evident to the traveller there. This is the result not so
much of a perverted or undeveloped sense of justice as it is of lazi-
ness. The food problem is an important one with peasants every-
where, and the Italians have chosen to make their song-birds direct-
ly valuable as a food item. These Italians in America are sometimes
difficult to deal with, since they are temperamental in nature, and
resent interference. Until they learn that our birds are regarded as
more valuable alive in the woods than as food in the pot, they will
have to be handled by the law until the truth dawns upon them—
namely that our valuation of wild-life is more than a mere matter

of sentiment.

The small boy who goes about with stones, sling-shot, or other
weapon, is not ahvays a serious enemy of bird-life, and he often
later becomes a splendid bird student and ardent conservationist
Nvhen shown that marvelous things can be learned about wild
creatures if they are closely observed rather than killed. The boy
who does chase about flinging stones here and there may eventually
become one of Pennsylvania's best citizens if his efforts are di-
rected into proper channels. We would prefer to see a thousand
hearty lovers of the outdoors developing in Pennsylvania— even
sportsmen who take their recreation outdoors— than half as many
men who have no interest in Nature. For our real sportsmen, far
from the ruthless killers they are often supposed to be, are among
the most sincerely interested nature-lovers and conservators we
have. They are interested not only in their own pursuits of pleas-
ure, but are truly in sympathy with the lives of the woods-creatures
and are doing a great deal for their protection.

After all, sportsmen are the men who for the past ten years have
been paying for the enforcement of laws which protect our wild-life.
If all bird-lovers each year paid for a license they might be in a
better position to criticize methods of enforcement and demand that
their views on protection of wild-life be heard. As it is now, too
many bird-lovers complain about the killing of game-birds and are
apparently not willing to do more than severely criticize the sports-
man for shooting the birds. Why should not all bird-students join
the sportsmen in defraying the expenses of law enforcement, winter
feeding, and maintenance of State refuges? Co-operation of this
kind might unite the forces of conservation in our State in a power-
ful way and lead to the realization of the very things which bird-
lovers most ardently desire.

A word concerning the collector of bird-skins is not out of place
here. As a rule the scientific collector is sincere and is worthy of

<■ V

^ I V

u ♦ ^

1-

27

all the help we can give him, because he, more than anyone else,
knows the value of birds, and is their ardent defender.

However, there is nothing more despicable than taking advantage
of a collecting permit to satisfy personal ends. Purely private col-
lections are not to be encouraged ; and if large series of specimens,
be they cared for ever so well, are not available to any student
who needs to use them, there is no justification for such a collection.

\ '

28

V-

'^.

S .

i.

Fig. 16.

Fig. 17.

Fig. 18.

Fig. 19.

^' "* li^HHjjliJHi^^^^^H

*'

^^KJEfi^^^tJ^^^A^Jng

3

-^r .^ ^Pr^

_ "**"

ki^

-<*'^— f " ' Jif

r-"

!^^Q^\:.

Fig. 20. Fig. 21.

Photographs by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

WINTER BIRD CUEST.S AT THE HOME OF MR. FRANK PAGAN OF WELLSBORO,
WINltK "ig^^J^Q^^.^^g'JjifFERENT METHODS OF ATTRACTING BIRDS

Fig. 16. Red Crossbills and a White-breasted Nuthatch (right). Fig. 17. Evening Grosbeak.
Fig. 18. Purple Finches. Fig. 19. White-breasted Nuthatch. Fig. 20. Tufted Tit. Fig. 21.
White-breasted Nuthatch, Red Crossbill, and Pine Siskin.

29

PROTECTING AND ATTRACTING PENNSYLVANIA

BIRD-LIFE

A study and regulation of the enemies of birds is essential if we
are to help our feathered friends; but the killing of any hawk or
fox, or the imprisonment of any law-violator, seems a negative
part of our work. How much more positive is the development of
a wholesome sentiment which will make violations of the law in-
frequent because people have come to see that they themselves
should preserve wild-life rather than waste it.

REFUGES

One of the greatest factors in the growth of such a sentiment has
been the game refuge movement. The establishment of game
refuges is, in a way, part of the fight against the enemies of birds
since these refuges afford a place where men cannot hunt, and where
all possible help is given the wild creatures in their feeding and
nesting problems. The refuge idea is a splendid one since more
than any other it is giving bird-life a chance to exist without moles-
tation. There are thirty-five State game refuges in Pennsylvania,
which total 77,817 acres. On each of these is a refuge-keeper
whose interest in the wild-life of the area is his paramount concern.
There are also sixty-eight auxiliary State game refuges, where simi-
lar protection is afforded. These refuges are directly the result
of efforts of the Game Commission, supported by the sportsmen of
Pennsylvania, and they are doing a great deal of good.

The refuge idea has taken several forms. Federal and State
parks are automatically closed to all hunting. There is a popular
movement toward making cemeteries and similar plots of ground
into bird sanctuaries, and there are numerous instances of the form-
ing of sanctuaries in widespread areas, where the people have united
in an effort to protect bird-life. Such an admirable item has been
part of the program of the Audubon Society of the Sewickley Valley
in Southwestern Pennsylvania, where courses of lectures w^ere given
through all the country schools, educational signs posted, and real
effort put forth in the execution of their plan. A slogan "The Se-
wickley Valley a Bird Sanctuary" was adopted. Hearty work such
as this will bring about the desired protection of birds. Education
of all the people on the subject is a crying need.

WINTER FEEDING

Setting aside plots of ground wherein bird-life is always protected
is a step in the right direction. But the feeding of birds, and their
care in other respects should be carried on more vigorously. Some-

28

M-

V.

Fig. 16.

FiR. 17.

Fig. 18.

Fig. 19.

Fig. 20. Fig. 21.

Photographs by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

VVINTFR BFRI) CTESTS AT TTTF. HOME OF MR. FRAXK I'Af'.AN (M' \VP:KLSB()R0,

wi.NjhK "'4\;;)^;)i5^/pi'^pkrp:nt methods of attracting birds

Fig. K,. Red Crossbills an<l a Whitc-brcastci Nuthatch (right) Fig 17. Evening Grosbeak.
Fiii. IS Purple Finches. Fig. 19. White-breasted Nuthatch. Fig. 20. Tutted fit. tig. -1.
White-breasted Nuthatch, Red Crossbill, and Pine Siskin.

29

PROTECTING AND ATTRACTING PENNSYLVANIA

BIRD-LIFE

A study and regulation of the enemies of birds is essential if we
are to help our feathered friends; but the killing of any hawk or
fox. or the imprisonment of any law-violator, seems a negative
part of our work. Ilow much more ])ositive is the development of
a wholesome sentiment whicli will make violations of the law in-
frequent because people have come to see that they themselves
should preserve wild-life rather than waste it.

REFUGES

One of the greatest factors in the growth of such a sentiment has
been the game refuge movement. The establishment of game
refuges is. in a way, part of the fight against the enemies of birds
since these refuges afford a place where men cannot hunt, and where
all possible help is given the wild creatures in their feeding and
nesting problems. The refuge idea is a splendid one since more
than any other it is giving bird-life a chance to exist without moles-
tation. There are thirty-five State game refuges in Pennsylvania,
which total 77,^X7 acres. On each of these is a refuge-keeper
whose interest in the wild-life of the area is his paramount concern.
There are also sixty-eight auxiliary State game refuges, where simi-
lar protection is afforded. These refuges are directly the result
of efforts of the Game Commission, supported by the sportsmen of
Pennsylvania, and they are doing a great deal of good.

The refuge idea has taken several forms. Federal and State
parks are automatically closed to all hunting. There is a popular
movement toward making cemeteries and similar plots of ground
into bird sanctuaries, and there are numerous instances of the form-
ing of sanctuaries in widespread areas, where the people have united
in an eff'ort to protect bird-life. Such an admirable item has been
part of the program of the Audubon Society of the Sewickley Valley
in Southwestern Pennsylvania, where courses of lectures were given
through all the country schools, educational signs posted, and real
effort jHit forth in the execution of their plan. A slogan "The Se-
wickley \'alley a F.ird Sanctuary" was adopted. Hearty work such
as this will bring about the desired protection of birds. Education
of all the ])eople on the subject is a crying need.

WINTER FEEDING

Setting aside i)lots of ground wherein bird-life is always protected
is a step-in the right direction. But the feeding of birds, and their
care in other respects should lie carried on more vigorously. Some-

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

30

how it seems natural to think of aiding birds particularly in the
winter. What is suggested here as regards feeding devices may
apply to refuge or sanctuary, farm, garden, or city yard, wherever
there may be birds.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 22. JUNCOS AT WINDOW FEEDING-SHELF

This photograph admirably illustrates a delightful method of feeding birds

in winter.

All manner of clever feeding devices have been made by interested
students, bird-lovers, and game protectors. But it is preferable to
suggest here only the general principles which should guide one
in one's winter feeding. A natural feeding place seems preferable in
many ways to a built counter, although birds do not seem to object
to artificial devices. Birds may be lured to a feeding place more
readily when there is a great deal of snow, because most of their
natural food is covered. Therefore it is suggested that special
efforts to feed the birds be made when a snow has fallen. A de-
sirable place for feeding should be sheltered well, and should be open
to sunlight if possible. It is advisable to watch the natural move-
ments of the birds in determining where they will most likely occur.

During seasons when snow is constantly falling it is wise to place
the food in a cleared space on the ground below a rudely built roof
which catches the snow. Such a roof may be made by fastening
several slender stiff cross pieces of brush horizontally to a sapling
about four or five feet from the ground and thickly piling upon this

i.

. I.' ^

v.

31

framework all sorts of available material such as brush, corn stalks,
or weeds. If these are not heavy enough to withstand the wind,
they may be bound together with wire or cord.

This type of shelter has many advantages. It affords a convenient
roosting place for small birds. There is almost always an open space
below the shelter where the snows do not drift in. The sapling
trunk affords a place where suet may be attached for woodpeckers
and other birds, and the ground features appeal to game birds such
as Bobwhites which are too often neglected by us in winter. Such
a device may be employed almost anywhere, and, on a small scale
will be found eft'ective in a sheltered spot in the yard, although a
simpler station is desirable in town.

If a large fallen log is available, and brush is piled over the wind-
ward side leaving a sheltered space on the opposite side, the haven
thus formed is often successful as a feeding ground. And the most
promiscuous throwng of grain or other food even though not to be
encouraged, will possibly have its good effects.

In the yard in town where birds are to be fed, a simple shelf on
a tree trunk, a table with a single central leg, or even a widened
windowsill may be very effective, but it should always be remem-
bered that a sheltered, sunny spot is desirable.

If a tree with a few shrubs at its base is chosen as a Tikely feed-
ing-station, the snow should be cleared away before food is placed
on the ground for Juncos, Tree Sparrows, and other ground-feed-
ers ; a neat shelf on the lee side of the trunk may be erected for
birds which prefer to feed there, such as Cardinals, Chickadees, and
Tufted Titmice. To the trunk or limbs various devices for holding
suet and other desirable winter foods may be attached. At the feed-
ing counter during winter the following items will be appreciated by

the birds :

Grit: Grit is an important item which is too often omitted. It
is needed more by game birds than by smaller species, but should
be present at all feeding places. It may take the form of broken
shell, coarse sand, or other hard material, and should be mixed with
the grain or other food used.

Grains: Cracked corn, wheat, buckwheat, millet, and other native
grains are desirable both on the shelf and on the ground. Most
winter birds will find this food very acceptable. Field corn on
the cob is appreciated by Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkeys, and Ring-
necked Pheasants, and a simple upright stick into which the cob
may be thrust is an effective means of keeping the corn above the
snow during winter.

Seeds: Sunflower seed is greatly enjoyed by Goldfinches, Purple
Finches, and members of the Sparrow tribe. This seed may be put
out loosely, with other grains, but it is especially acceptable if left

30

31

how it seems natural to think of aidin^^ birds particuhirly in the
winter. What is sug^gcsted here as regards feeding devices may
apply to refuge or sanctuary, farm, garden, or city yard, wherever
there may be birds.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 22. JUNCOS AT WINDOW FEEDING-SHELF

This photograph admirably illustrates a delightful method of feeding birds

in winter.

All manner (»f clever feeding devices have been made by interested
students, bird-lovers, and game protectors. But it is preferable to
suggest here only the general principles which should guide cme
in one's winter feeding. A natural feeding place seems preferable in
many ways to a Iniilt counter, although birds do not seem to object
to artificial devices. P.irds may be lured to a feeding place more
readily when there is a great deal of snow, because most of their
natural food is covered. Therefore it is suggested that special
efforts to feed the birds be made when a snow has fallen. A de-
sirable place for feeding should be sheltered well, and should be open
to sunlight if possible. It is advisable to watch the natural move-
ments of the birds in determining where they will most likely occur.

During seasons when snow is constantly falling it is wise to place
the food in a cleared space on the ground below a rudely built roof
which catches the snow. Such a roof may be made by fastening
several slender stiff cro«s pieces of brush horizontally to a sa])ling
about four or five feet from the ground and thickly piling upon this

■ ■

f

> I «^

framework all sorts of available material such as brush, corn stalks,
or weeds. If these are not heavy enough to withstand the wind,
they ma_\' be bound together with wire or cord.

This type of shelter has many advantages. It affords a con\ enient
roosting place for small birds. There is almost always an oi)en si)ace
below the shelter where the snows do not drift in. The sapling
trunk alfords a place where suet may be attached for woodpeckers
and other birds, and the ground features appeal to game birds such
as P»ol)whites which are too often neglected by us in winter. Such
a device mav be employed almost anywhere, and, on a small scale
will be found effective in a sheltered spot in the yard, although a
simpler station is desirable in tow^n.

If a large fallen log is available, and brush is piled over the wind-
ward side leaving a sheltered space on the oi)posite side, the haven
thus formed is often successful as a feeding ground. And the most
promiscuous throwng of grain or other food even though not to be
encouraged, will possibly have its good effects.

In the yard in town where birds are to be {^i\, a simple shelf on
a tree trunk, a table with a single central leg, or even a widened
windowsill may be very effective, but it should always be remem-
bered that a sheltered, sunny spot is desirable.

If a tree with a few shrubs at its base is chosen as a likely feed-
ing-station, the snow should be cleared away before food is placed
on"" the ground for Juncos, Tree Sparrows, and other ground-feed-
ers; a neat shelf on the lee side of the trunk may be erected for
birds which prefer to feed there, such as Cardinals, Chickadees, and
Tufted lltmice. To the trunk or linds various devices for bedding
suet and other desirable winter foods may be attached. At the feed-
ing counter during winter the following items will be appreciated by

the birds :

Grit: (irit is an imi)ortant item which is too often omitted. It
is needed more by game birds than by smaller species, but should
be present at allfeeding i)laces. It may take the form of broken
shell, coarse sand, or other hard material, and should be mixed with
the grain or other food used.

Grains: Cracked corn, wheal, buckAvheat, millet, and other native
grains are desirable both on the shelf and on the gnmnd. Most
winter birds will find this food very acceptable. Meld corn on
the cob is appreciated by Ruffed Carouse, Wild Turkeys, and Kin.fr-
necked Pheasants, and a simple upright stick into which the cob
may be thrust is an effective means oC keeping the corn a1x">ve the
snow during winter.

Seeds: Sunllower seed is greatly enjoyed by Goldfinches, Purple
Finches, and members of the S])arr()W tril)e. This seed may be put
out loosely, with other grains, but it is especially acceptable if left

t

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

32

33

in the head, which may be nailed or wired to a trunk, branch or
shelf. Canary-bird seed is enjoyed by some species but it is not
necessary to go to the trouble of getting it if the other suggested
foods are available.

r i

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 23. A ROBIN TAMED BY MR. AND MRS. PAGAN
Birds respond quickly to kind treatment.

Nut Meats: Cracked black walnuts, hickory nuts, and others
are highly prized by Woodpeckers, Chickadees, Carolina Wrens, and
Tufted Titmice. Do not extract the meats of the nuts, because the
birds like to do this themselves. Peanuts (unsalted and preferably
unroasted), may be fed either shelled or not; it is sometimes amusing
to watch a chickadee at work on a peanut that has been suspended
from a bough by a wire or string. Mr. and Mrs. Francis H. Coffin
of Scranton have a string of whole peanuts fastened about the roof
of their window feeding-station. Fresh cocoanut is a good winter
food. Half a cocoanut shell, suspended by wires from a fairly high
branch may make a very good feeding receptacle. And a fresh
cocoanut with part of the shell removed may prove a valuable addi-
tion to the feeding-counter if the nut is suspended by wire or firmly
fastened to the shelf (see figure 22).

Suet: Beef suet is a wonderful winter food, appreciated by many
species of birds. A piece of this may be nailed direct to the trunk,
or placed in a secure open-meshed wire container and then either

^

.V I a

suspended from or attached direct to the trunk or branch. The
birds will pick at the food through the large meshes. Woodpeckers
and Nuthatches are particularly fond of suet. The so-called **bird-
stone" which is made of melted suet with which has been mixed
seeds, grit, nuts, and bits of bone is good. This mixture is poured
on twigs or on the shelf, or may be painted on the bark of trees.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 24. CHICKADEE AT COCOANUT FEEDING-STATION
A novel and attractive arrangement.

Many other winter foods have been suggested and employed suc-
cessfully, such as portions of various green vegetables, apples, hard-
boiled eggs, broken up sweet cookies, fresh boiled potatoes, bread,
and specially made meal cakes, but the above listed foods will be
found sufficient for most uses.

Certain bird-lovers have devised clever rotating weather-vane
feeding stations, in which three sides of the box are closed with or
without glass, and the open side is so weighted by windcatching
flanges that they always swing the whole box around with the
covered sides exposed to the wind, thus affording the birds and food
perpetual shelter (see figure 25).

A Christmas tree for the birds js an altraclive ana appealing way
of remembering our feathered friends during the cold season. This
may be a specially arranged tree, or it may be the one discarded by
the children after the holiday festivities, but if garlanded with var-
ious foods and placed in a suitable situation it should attract the
birds.

32

33

in the head, which may be nailed or wired to a trunk. l)ranch or
shelf. Canary-bird seed is enjoyed by some species but it is not
necessary to ^o to the trouble of getting it if the other suggested
foods are available.

Photograph by Frank PaRan, Wellshoro.

Fig. 23. A ROBIN TAMED BY MR. AND MRS. PAGAN
Birds respond quickly to kind treatment.

Nut Meats: Cracked black walnuts, hickory nuts, and others
are highly prized by Woodpeckers. Chickadees, Carolina Wrens, and
Tufted Titmice. Do not extract the meats of the nuts, because the
birds like to do this themselves. Peanuts (unsalted and preferably
unroasted), may be fed either shelled or not; it is sometimes amusing
to watch a chickadee at work on a i)eanut that has been suspended
from a bough by a wire or string. Mr. and Mrs. Francis IT. Coffin
of Scranton have a string of whole peanuts fastened about the roof
of their window feeding-station, b'resh cocoanut is a good winter
food. Half a cocoanut shell, suspended by wires from a fairly high
branch may make a very good feeding receptacle. And a fresh
cocoanut with part of the shell removed may prove a valuable addi-
tion to the feeding-counter if the nut is suspended by wire or firmly
fastened to the shelf (see figure 22).

Suet: I'eef suet is a wonderful winter food, appreciated by many
species of l)irds. A piece of this may l)e nailed direct to the trunk,
or placed in a secure open-meshed wire container and then either

' 4

suspended from or attached direct to the trunk or branch. The
birds will jjick at the food through tlie large meshes. Woodpeckers
and Nuthatches are i)articularly fond of suet. The so-called "l)ird-
stone" which is made of melted suet with which has been mixed
seeds, grit, nuts, and bits of bone is good. This mixture is i)oured
on twigs or on the shelf, or may be painted on the bark of trees.

Photo«raph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 24. CHICKADEE AT COCOANUT FEEDING-STATION
A novel and attractive arrangement.

Many other winter foods have been suggested and employed suc-
cessfully, such as portions of various green vegetables, api)les. hard-
boiled eggs, broken up sweet cookies, fresh boiled potatoes, l)read,
and specially made meal cakes, but the above listed foods will be
found sufficient for most uses.

Certain bird-lovers have devised clever rotating weather-vane
feeding stations, in which three sides of the box are closed with or
without glass, and the open side is so weighted by windcatching
flanges that they always swing the whole box around with the
covered sides exi)ose(l to the wind, thus affording the birds and food
peri)etual shelter (see figure 25).

A Christmas tree for the birds is an attractive and appealing way
of remembering our feathered friends during the cold seascm. This
mav be a specially arranged tree, or it may be the one discarded by
the children after the holiday festivities, but if garlanded with var-
ious foods and placed in a suitable situation it should attract the
birds.

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

I1

34

By all means care should be used to situate the feeding-station
in a place which will not be specially advantageous to a cat, for cats
will watch the winter movements of birds very closely.

English Sparrows are sometimes so numerous at the winter feed-
ing-station that they are a nuisance. Although a shelf on springs
has been suggested as sparrow-proof, I have not had pronounced
success with my own experiments in thus keeping them away. If
English Sparrows are too numerous they should be shot or captured
in a trap.

If the weather is especially cold it will do no harm to give some
water to the birds occasionally although they can eat snow if they
need water.

SHELTER FOR WINTER BIRDS

During the winter the bird-student will see the advisability of
allowing hedge rows, fences and thickets to remain uncut, for the
birds find in them the most perfect natural shelter. Therefore he
will see that care is used in the spring or autumn burning and
clearing so that some natural shelters may be preserved for the
winter birds. He will also see that some birds prefer grape-vine
tangles, and others coniferous trees, so that when he considers plant-
ing in the future he may bear the winter birds in mind.

^ ♦ -

Fig. 25 Fig. 26

Photograph by Stoffer Photo Co., Altoona. Pliotograph by Miss Florence L. Griscom, Roslyn.

Fig. 25. A WEATHER VANE FOOD COUNTER WHICH SWINGS
ABOUT SO AS TO PROTECT THE BIRDS WHICH ARE FEEDING

Erected by the Blair County Game, Fish and Forestry Association.

Fig. 26. CATBIRD AT FEEDING-SHELF
Even the insectivorous species may be attracted to food counters.

' I '

i, tt

35

NESTING HOUSES

As spring comes on, and the winter bird-visitors begin to return
to their northern nesting grounds, our familiar birds gradually ap-
pear, and we are faced with the problem of helping them in their

nesting.

The preservation of as many natural nesting places as possible
is urged most vigorously. If a large dead tree happens to stand
nearby, do not, unless unavoidable, cut it down. There are many
species of birds which prefer to use dead trees as nesting sites.

While some of us prefer natural nesting sites to man-made,
boxes, the birds quickly adopt these houses even when many natural
sites are available. We think that we have trained our birds to
nest in the houses which we have put out for them. But my friend
Dr. Alfred Emerson quickly dispelled this notion when he told me
of a bird-house which he erected in the wilderness of British Guiana.
This house was immediately claimed by a pair of South American
Wrens who had doubtless never heard of bird houses ! Rustic boxes
are chosen by most birds in preference to others, however. Success-
ful houses for Purple Martins may be very ornate, and any degree of
refinement and decoration does not seem to displease them at all.
On the other hand Martins often accept the most humble sort of
house if the environment satisfies them. Boxes for Robins are often
put up at the present time, but Robins do not seem to have any
difficulty in finding nesting sites. Also it seems doubtfully kind to

Fig. 27. DIAGRAM OF BIRD BOX MADE FROM SECTION OF TREE

1. Diagram of box showing position of nest. 2. Front half of log hollowed

out, showing entrance. 3. Back hplf of log hollowed out, showing groove

and holes for wire fasteners. 4. Finished house, showing sloping roof and

added base. 5. Complete plan, c, Entrance. 8, Screws, wf, Wire fasteners.

34

35

I'.y all means care should he u>e(l to situate the feedini^-station
in a place which will not he specially ad\ antaii^eous to a cat, for cats
will watch the winter movements of hirds very closely.

ICniL^lish S])arrows are sometimes so numerous at the winter feed-
in^"-station that they are a nuisance. Althou^s^h a shelf on sprinjj^s
has heen suji^i^ested as sparrow-proof, I have not had pronounced
success with my own experiments in thus keeping- them away. If
Eni^lish S])arrows are too numerous they should be shot or ca])tured
in a trap.

If the weather is especially cold it will do no harm to j^ive some
water to the birds occasionally although they can eat snow if they
need water.

SHELTER FOR WINTER BIRDS

Durinj^^ the winter the bird-student will see the advisability of
allowini; hedj^e rows, fences and thickets to remain uncut, for the
birds find in them the most perfect natural shelter. Therefore he
will see that care is used in the si)rinor or autumn burning and
clearing so that some natural shelters may be preserved for the
winter birds. He will also see that some birds prefer gfrape-vine
tangles, and others coniferous trees, so that when he considers plant-
ing in the future he may bear the winter birds in mind.

■ i

i

r.- .-i*

. . :<i

'V>f

vamB^m'^^^m

^IHWHTII

^ ^^ JH^HI

- A-^<^^ ^"I^H

'^^^^5

'•^tM^^WM^^*'^^ ^^SL^^^r a^^^^Bv^RlvJH^T^^^^B^ ^ ^^l^^^^l

^«r'^^ ■^Ku^ySnrinffioB^ft^ vR

x.'/r

mm

\wm^am .

j||

^•*'*-'. 'fi

' ■ • ^H Uir^'.' - ^^^Bl

'.Si ty

"^'^^ISUW'^^BIM

^■^SHas^&M

Fig. 25 Fig. 26

Photograph by Stoffer Photo Co., Altoona. Pliotou'rnpli liy .Miss Florenc*' L. Orisoom, Uoslyn.

Fig. 25. A WEATHER VANE FOOD COUNTER WHICH SWINGS
ABOUT SO AS TO PROTECT THE BIRDS WHICH ARE FEEDING

Erected by the Blair County Game, Fish and Forestry Association.

Fig. 26. CATBIRD AT FEEDING-SHELF
Even the insectivorous species may be attracted to food counters.

^ .

f

'. *

NESTING HOUSES

As spring comes on, and the winter bird-visitors begin to return
to their northern nesting grounds, our familiar birds gradually a])-
])ear, and we are faced v.ith the problem of helping them in their
nesting.

The preservation of as many natural nesting places as possible
is urged most vigorously. If a large dead tree happens to stand
nearby, do not, unless unavoidable, cut it down. There are many
species of birds which prefer to use dead trees as nesting sites.

While S(mie of us prefer natural nesting sites to man-made,
boxes, the birds (|uickly adopt these houses even when many natural
sites are available. We think that w^e have trained our birds to
nest in the houses w^hich we have put out for them. But my friend
Dr. Alfred Emerson quickly dispelled this notion when he told me
of a bird-house which he erected in the wilderness of I'ritish (luiana.
This house was immediately claimed by a pair of South American
Wrens who had doubtless never heard of bird houses! Rustic boxes
are chosen by most birds in preference to others, however. Success-
ful houses for Purple Martins may be very ornate, and any degree of
refinement and decoration does not seem to disi)lease them at all.
On the other hand Martins often accept the most humble sort of
house if the environment satisfies them. Boxes for Robins are often
put up at the present time, but Robins do not seem to have any
difficulty in finding nesting sites. Also it seems doubtfully kind to

Fig. 27. DIAGRAM OF BIRD BOX MADE FROM SECTION OI- TREE

1. Diagram of box showing position of nest. 2. Front half of log hollowed

out, showing entrance. 3. IJack h.df of log hollowed out, showing groove

and* holes for wire fasteners. 4. Finished house, showing sloping roof and

added base. 5. Complete plan, c, Entrance, s, Screws, wf, Wire fasteners.

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

36

furnish woodpeckers with finished boxes where old trees are avail-
able. It is no hardship for a woodpecker to make its own nesting
cavity, and perhaps it is wiser to allow them to build their own
cavity than to provide it for them.

A few general rules should govern the making and placing of
bird-houses. For Bluebirds, Chickadees, House Wrens, and other
species, old nesting cavities of Downy, Hairy or Red-headed Wood-
peckers, with a rain-proof roof and securely fastened to a tree or
post, will often be successful.

A section of tree trunk sawed lengthwise, hollowed out, drilled
with proper entrance hole, and then fitted together securely and
placed in a suitable situation will admirably meet the needs of wood-
peckers. Bluebirds and other species which use cavities. All boxes
should be roofed carefully to prevent the entering of rain, and if
possible the edges of the roof should protrude as eaves, under which
ventilating holes should be drilled to make the nest cooler in summer.
The interior of boxes should not be planed off, but should be
roughened so as to allow the young birds to clamber about with
ease. For Bluebirds, House Wrens, and others it may be wiser to
place the box on a pole or iron pipe in the open in a more or less
sheltered place rather than on a tree trunk ; but in any event a belt
of tin should be placed about the post or trunk to prevent cats from
climbing up. This tin should be wide enough and at a sufficient
distance from the ground to prevent cats from reaching or jumping
over it.

If many bird-houses are to be erected care should be used not to
place them too near each other, since this will keep some birds from
using the boxes, or will cause altercations of one sort or another
during the nesting season.

Although houses of one kind or another have been used and may
be selected by many species of birds for nesting sites, the species
listed below seem to appreciate and use boxes most extensively.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR BIRD-HOUSES

Robin: Boxes with two, three, or all sides open, with a rain-proof
roof may promptly be chosen by Robins as a nesting site. The
Robin box should be seven inches square and six or seven inches
high, and may be placed almost anywhere about the house or barn,
or on a tree trunk, from ten to twenty feet from the ground. The
rain-shedding roof of such a house may be carefully covered with
bark, or the whole box may be rustic. Robins often build their nests
on window-sills or on the frames above doors, about eave-spouting
in sheltered places, or under the roofs of porches. Bearing these
likely situations (which are not always satisfactory) in mind, boxes
may be placed for Robins to good effect.

'"

37

It is advisable to put out string, pieces of cloth or paper and
similar materials which the Robins may use in their nests. Robin
boxes should be in place by the last of March.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 28. BLUEBIRD AT NEST
The Bluebird is beautiful, friendly, beneficial and musical.

Bluebird: A simple rectangular or round box about five inches
in diameter, and eight inches deep (inside measurements), with an
inch and a half round entrance well toward the top of the box, with
or without a convenient perch attached, will meet the requirements
of Bluebirds, if the box is placed well in the open from six to ten
feet from the ground on a fence-post, pole, or iron pipe erected for
it, or attached to a tree trunk, or the corner of a building. Blue-
birds may begin nesting quite early— even late in March, so the
box should be ready for them by the middle of March. Ventilating
holes just under the roof are important, since Bluebirds may raise
as many as three broods in a season, and the last brood may suffer
with heat if the sun strikes the box strongly and there is no means
of good ventilation.

The old nesting-cavity of a Downy or Hairy Woodpecker, if care-
fully removed, provided with a weather proof top, and securely
fastened to a branch, trunk or post, will often attract Bluebirds.
Remember the tin band about the post or tree to keep the cats out.

Tufted Titmouse: A square or round box nine or ten inches in
diameter (inside measurements), with entrance one and one-fourth
inches in diameter well toward the top of the box will meet the de-
mands of Tufted Titmice, if placed from eight to ten feet from the
ground, in a rathtr isolated or well sheltered place. Titmice do
not always accept boxes placed in the open. Titmice are often

36

furnish woodpeckers with finished boxes where old trees are avail-
able. It is no hardship for a woodpecker to make its own nesting
ca\ity, and ])erhaps it is wiser to allow them to build their own
cavity than to provide it for them.

A few general rules should j^oxcrn tlie making;" and placinj^ (jf
bird-houses. For Bluel)irds, Chickadees, House Wrens, and other
species, old nesting cavities of Downy. Hairy or Red-headed Wood-
peckers, with a rain-proof roof and securely fastened to a tree or
post, will often be successful.

A section of tree trunk sawed lengthwise, hollowed out, drilled
with i)roi)er entr^uice hole, and then fitted together securely and
placed in a suitable situation will admirably meet the needs of wood-
peckers, Bluebirds and other species which use cavities. All boxes
should be roofed carefully to prevent the entering of rain, and if
possil)le the edges of the roof should protrude as eaves, under which
ventilating holes should be drilled to make the nest cooler in summer.
The interior of boxes should not be ])laned off, but sIkjuM be
roughened so as to allow the young birds to clamber about with
ease. For Bluebirds, House Wrens, and others it may be wiser to
j)lace the box on a ])ole or iron ])ipe in the ojien in a more or less
sheltered place rather than on a tree trunk; but in any event a belt
of tin should be ])laced about the post or trunk to prevent cats from
climbing uj). This tin should be wide enough and at a sufficient
distance from the ground to i)re\ent cats from reaching or jumping
over it.

If many bird-houses are to be erected care should be used not to
I)Iace them too near each other, since this will keep some birds from
using the boxes, or will cause altercations of one sort or another
during the nesting season.

Although houses of one kind or another have been used and may
be selected by many species of birds for nesting sites, the species
listed below seem to appreciate anrl use boxes most extensiveh'.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR BIRD-HOUSES

Robin: Boxes with two, three, or all sides o])en, with a rain-proof
roof may ])romptly be chosen by Robins as a nesting site. The
Robin box should be seven inches sfjuare and six or seven inches
high, and may be placed almost anywhere about the house or barn,
or on a tree trunk, from ten to twenty feet from the ground. The
rain-shedding roof of such a house may be carefully covered with
bark, or the whole box may be rustic. Robins often build their nests
on window-sills or on the frames aboxe doors, about eave-spouting
in sheltered places, or under the roofs of ])orches. T'earing these
likely situations (which are not always satisfactory) in mind, boxes
may be placed for Ro])ins to good effect.

c o

2>7

It is advisable to put out string, pieces of cloth or paper and
similar materials which the Robins may use in their nests. Robin
boxes should be in place by the last of March.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 28. BLUEBIRD AT NEST
The Bluebird is beautiful, friendly, beneficial and musical.

Bluebird: A simi)le rectangular or round box about 'i\\<i inches
in diameter, and eight inches deep (inside measurements), with an
inch and a half round eiU ranee well toward the toj) of the box, with
or without a convenient perch attached, will meet the re(|uirements
of liluebirds, if the box is placed well in the open fn.m six to ten
feet from the ground on a fence-post, pole, or iron pii)e erected for
it, r)r attached to a tree trunk, or the corner of a building. lilue-
birds may begin nesting quite early— even late in March, so the
box should be ready for them by the middle of March. \ cntilating
holes just under the roof are important, since I'.luebirds may raise
as many as three broods in a season, and the last brood may suffer
with heat if the sun strikes the box strongly and there is no means
of good ventilation.

The old nesting-cavity of a Downy or Hairy WV)dpecker, if care-
fully removed. i)rovided with a weather prof>f top, and securely
fastened to a branch, trunk or post, will often attract lUuebirds.
Remember the tin band about the post or tree to keep the cats out.

Tufted Titmouse: A «rnmre or round box nine or ten inches in
diameter (inside measurements), with entrance one and one-fourth
inches in diameter well toward the top of the box will meet the de-
mands of Tufted Titmice, if placed from eight to ten feet from the
ground, in a rather isolated or well sheltered place. Titmice do
not always accept boxes placed in the open. Titmice are often

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

38

surprisingly early nesters. Sometimes boxes put up for larger birds
will be used by them. They will often bring a great deal of rough
material such as leaves with which to fill a large space.

Chickadee: If an old Downy Woodpecker nest is not available,
a box eight or ten inches deep, and about four inches in diameter
(inside measurements) with round entrance hole one and one-eighth
inches in diameter placed well toward the top of the box, will at-
tract Chickadees. This box may be placed on the side of a house,
or on a tree trunk from eight to ten feet from the ground, in almost
any sort of place. Chickadees will use plant fibre, thread or bits
of cotton in the construction of their nest. More than once I have
located a Chickadee's nest by dropping cotton about which the birds
took while I waited.

White-breasted Nuthatch: Nuthatches often use natural cavities
as nesting sites. A box eight inches deep and four inches in dia-
meter (inside measurements) with one and one-fourth inch round
entrance toward the top of the box will suffice, if it is placed on a
tree trunk from ten to forty feet from the ground. Nuthatches often
nest much higher than either Chickadees or Titmice. They appreci-
ate bits of soft material that they may use in their nests. They
sometimes start nest building late in March.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock. Wyncote.

Fig. 29. HOUSE WREN AT NEST-BOX
A familiar dooryard bird whose habits bear watching.

39

House Wren : House Wrens may use almost anything as a nest-
ing site. They build in tin cans, pockets of old coats, gourds, jugs,

^ old woodpecker cavities, natural cavities, or boxes which are placed

for them. In making a House Wren box the size of the entrance
hole is rather important. This should be seven-eights of an inch

^ or a trifle more in diameter. Unless the entrance hole is made

small English Sparrows will enter and cause the wrens to desert.

■^ The box which may be four by four inches and six or eight inches

u ^ deep (inside measurements), may be hung on a branch, fastened

to a wall or trunk, or placed at the top of a pole or iron pipe. The

entrance to the box may be at almost any distance from the floor of

^. the cavity, but is preferable toward the top. It is well to provide

wren houses with perches on which the birds may stand.

"" More than once I have helped wrens in the building of their

^ nests by breaking twigs off for thein. I broke about a bushel basket

full for a pair once, and was amazed on returning next day to find
the twigs all gone. The nest was complete ; only a comparatively

^ small number had been used there. But the male bird had almost

filled a gallon paint can, several strawberry boxes, and other cavities
with the twigs ! ')

^ House Wrens may cause much trouble if their nesting boxes are

placed near nests of other birds.

" Bewick's Wren: If you are fortunate enough to have this little

known relative of the House Wren as a summer resident, by all
means cultivate its acquaintance. The bird is about the size of the

"* House Wren, but has a longer more loosely hinged tail which is

marked with light gray areas on the outer feathers. There is a
prominent whitish line above the eye also; but the principal differ-

^ ence in the species occurs in their songs. The Bewick's song may

^ remind you of a lightly given, somewhat abbreviated Song Sparrow's

outburst.

Bewick's Wrens will use about the same sort of box as the House
Wren ; but they occupy situations in wood piles, under porches,
and other sites very near the ground which House Wrens practically
never choose. For some reason or other Bewick's and House Wrens

-( never occur at the same place as nesting species. They are ap-

parently antagonistic in some way.* In certain sections the wren
population varies ; the usual number of House Wrens may be re-

* placed by Bewick's Wrens the following year, and vice versa. The

^ Carolina Wren is also to an extent variable. Bewick's Wren is

western part of the State, and rather regularly in the valleys of the
central mountain district as far north as Huntingdon County.

•Very likely the House Wrens cause the Bewick's Wrens to desert by breaking their eggs
or driving the birds from their nests.

38

surprising-ly early nesters. Sometimes l)oxes put up for larger birds
will be used by them. They will often bring a great deal of rough
material such as leaves with which to fill a large space.

Chickadee: If an old Downy Woodpecker nest is not available,
a box eight or ten inches deep, and about four inches in diameter
(inside measurements) with round entrance hole one and one-eighth
inches in diameter placed well toward the top of the box, will at-
tract Chickadees. This box may be i)laced on the side of a house,
or on a tree trunk from eight to ten feet from the ground, in almost
any sort of place. Chickadees will use plant fibre, thread or bits
of cotton in the construction of their nest. More than once I have
located a Chickadee's nest by dropping cotton about which the birds
took while I waited.

White-breasted Nuthatch: Nuthatches often use natural cavities
as nesting sites. A box eight inches deep and four inches in dia-
meter (inside measurements) with one and one-fourth inch round
entrance toward the top of the box will suffice, if it is placed on a
tree trunk from ten to forty feet from the ground. Nuthatches often
nest much higher than either Chickadees or Titmice. They appreci-
ate bits of soft material that they may use in their nests. They
sometimes start nest building late in March.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock. Wyncote.

Fig. 29. HOUSE WREN AT NEST-BOX
A familiar dooryard bird whose habits bear watching.

- 1

«••

4 ' O

39

House Wren: 1 louse Wrens may use almost anything as a nest-
ing site. They build in tin cans, pockets of old coats, gourds, jugs,
old woodpecker cavities, natural cavities, or boxes which are placed
for them. In making a House Wren box the size of the entrance
hole is rather important. This should be seven-eights of an inch
or a trifle more in diameter, l^nless the entrance hole is made
small English Sparrows will enter and cause the wrens to desert.
The box which may be four by four inches and six or eight inches
deep (inside measurements), may be hung on a branch, fastened
to a wall or trunk, or placed at the top of a pole or iron pipe. The
entrance to the box may be at almost any distance from the floor of
the cavity, but is i)referable toward the top. It is well to provide
wren houses with perches on which the birds may stand.

More than once I have heli)ed wrens in the building of their
nests by 1:)reaking twigs off for them. I broke about a bushel basket
full for a ])air once, and was amazed on returning next day to find
the twigs all gone. The nest was complete; only a comparatively
small number had been used there. lUit the male l)ird had almost
filled a gallon ])aint can, several strawberry boxes, and other cavities
witli the twigs!

House Wrens may cause much trouble if their nesting boxes are
placed near nests of other birds.

Bewick's Wren: If you are fortunate enough to ha\e this little
known relative of the House Wren as a summer resident, by all
means cultivate its acquaintance. The bird is about the size of the
House Wren, but has a longer more loosely hinged tail which is
marked with light gray areas on the outer feathers. There is a
I)r()minent whitish line above the eye also; but the principal differ-
ence in the si)ecies occurs in their songs. The l>c\vick's song may
remind you of a lightly given, somewhat abbreviated Song Sparrow's
outburst.

I'ewick's Wrens will use about the same sort of box as the House
Wren ; l)ut they occupy situations in wood piles, under porches,
and other sites very near the ground which House Wrens practically
never choose. For some reason or other ]'>ewick's and House Wrens
never occur at the same place as nesting species. They are ap-
parently antagonistic in some way.* In certain sections the wren
population varies ; the usual number of House Wrens may be re-
placed by Bewick's Wrens the following year, and z'icc versa. The
Carolina Wren is also to an extent variable. Bewick's Wren is
somewhat local in distribution but occurs sparingly in the south-
western part of the State, and rather regularly in the valleys of the
central mountain district as far north as Huntingdon County.

'Very likely the House Wrens cause the Bewick's Wrens to desert by breaking their eggs
or driving the birds from their nests.

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

40

Photograph by Samuel S. Dickey, Cambridge Springs.

Fie 30 NEST OF BEWICK'S WREN IN CORNER OF OIL
^' DERRICK

This photograph, which was taken in Greene County, shows the strange
situation in which this wren often builds.

Carolina Wren: This large handsome wren is restricted to the
southern and southwestern counties of the State. It is a brilliant
songster and is worthy of much attention. I have not had the best
results personally, in attracting these birds with nesting boxes.
Houses recommended by various authorities are virtually the same
as for House Wrens as regards size, although the opening should
be one and one-fourth or one and one-half inches in diameter. After
some study and experience with these birds the following surprising
suggestions are offered.

The box most often used was fastened three feet from the ground
to a post in a thickly weeded area at the border of a woods. This
box was entirely open on one side save for small strips at the top
and bottom an inch in width. The box was well shaded. The large
dome-shaped nest wab uuiil in the uox uut the iriatcrials stuCiC out
in all directions, and the cup of the nest proper was neatly hidden
deep in a lower corner. When I found the birds using this box I
carelessly tacked up a large soap box at a sloping angle on the back
of a shed and was surprised to see another pair of Carolina Wrens

u.

■»--,

^.\

•^

(4

41

instantly take possession; they nearly filled that box (which was
about two feet by three feet by one foot) with weed stalks, and
other nesting material and seemed to regard it an exceptionally
good find. And nesting boxes, the acme of neatness, apparently
were not preferable to such ramshackle abodes as these ! It should
be remembered, however, that Carolina Wrens like dark, sheltered
places in which to nest.

Tree Swallow: In some parts of Pennsylvania, notably in the
northern and more mountainous counties (and usually near lakes
or water-courses) the Tree Swallow occurs as a nester. These
Swallows will occupy a box whose inside measurements are five by
five inches, by five or six inches deep, placed from ten to twenty
feet from the ground, either on a dead tree or open pole not among
leafy branches. The entrance to the box may be drilled almost
any distance from the floor of the cavity, but is perhaps best three
inches or more above so that the nest may be built below the en-
trance.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 31. PURPLE MARTINS AT HOME

Most of the birds shown in this photograph are immature; the young birds
wander about the house a good deal before learning to fly.

40

41

Photograph by Samuel S. Dickey, Cambridge Springs.

Fie 30 NEST OF BEWICK'S WREN IN CORNER OF OIL

DERRICK

This photograph, which was taken in Greene County, shows the strange
situation in which this wren often builds.

Carolina Wren: This large handsome wren is restricted to the
southern and southwestern counties of the State. It is a brilliant
songster and is worthy of much attention. I have not had the best
results personally, in attracting these birds with nesting boxes.
Houses recommended by various authorities are virtually the same
as for House Wrens as regards size, although the opening should
be one and one-fourth or one and one-lialf inches in diameter. After
some study and experience with these birds the following surprising
suggestions are offered.

The box most often used was fastened three feet from the ground
to a post in a thickly weeded area at the border of a woods. This
box was entirely open on one side save for small strips at the top
and bottom an inch in width. The box was well shaded. The large
dome-shapcil ne.->t was built in the box but the materials stuck out
in all directions, and the cup of the nest pro])er was neatly hidden
deep in a lower corner. When I found the birds using this box I
carelessly tacked up a large soap box at a sloping angle on the back
of a shed and was surprised to see another pair of Carolina Wrens

1 •"•

w d

£. U^

f \ -.

instantly take possession ; they nearly filled that box (which was
about two feet by tliree feet by one foot) with weed stalks, and
other nesting material and seemed to regard it an exceiHionally
good find. And nesting boxes, the acme of neatness, apparently
were not preferable to such ramshackle abodes as these! It should
be remembered, however, that Carolina Wrens like dark, sheltererl
places in which to nest.

Tree Swallow: In some i)arts of Pennsylvania, notably in the
northern and more mountainous counties (and usually near lakes
or water-courses) the Tree Swallow occurs as a nester. These
Swallows will occupy a box whose inside measurements are five by
fixe inches, by five or six inches deep, placed from ten to twenty
feet from the ground, either on a dead tree or open pole not among
leafy branches. The entrance to the box may be drilled almost
any distance from the floor of the cavity, but is perhaps best three
inches or more above so that the nest may be built below the en-
trance.

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 31. PURPLE MARTINS AT HOME

Most of the birds shown in this photograph are immature; the young birds
wander about the house a good deal before learning to fly.

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

42

43

Feathers are used extensively as a lininj^ in the nest of a Tree
Swallow, and with a little care you may have delightful experience
in giving? feathers directly to the birds. The birds soon seem to
realize what you are about, will learn to wait for your appearance,
and may almost take the downy bits from your hands.

Purple Martin: Tliese much sought-for birds may nest in sepa-
rate pairs at times, but seem to prefer associating in communities.
Therefore large h.ouses with many compartments are often most
successful. Whether a single compartment or many are provided,
however, the inside measurements of these should be about six by
six by six inches, with a two and one-quarter inch entrance not more
than an inch above the floor. The house may be fastened to a
human dwellini,- or dead tree, but is more sightly and perhaps oc-
cupied more readily if placed on a stout pole from fifteen to twenty-
five feet from the ground.

Martin houses should l)e cleaned yearly; therefore some device
which will easily alhnv taking down and putting up the box is

/ Wooden Upridhf

^Wooden Upngh/-

Cement ^

Fig. 32. DIAGRAM OF SUPPORT FOR MARTIN HOUSE
This will allow easy lowering of the house by the removal of one of
the bolts.

desirable. A cement holder for the base of the pole should be used
to prevent rotting of the wood from contact with the damp soil. A
clever device for lowering and raising the Martin house is shown
in the accompanying cut. The upper or lower bolt may be re-

X.

».- -•

w

I*

7

V

IT*

. J

■I-

4^

moved. This will allow the upper and loose part of the pole to
swing over on the fastened bolt as a hinge, and permit lowering and
raising of the house with ease.

Martins are uncpiestionably partial to some communities; if they
do not like a certain environment for any reason it is virtually im-
possible to lure them ; but if they find a location favorable they
will nest in anything available.*

^ ^^.^^m

■ "*^' — '."r 1 ""

4'?^ ' - •> -, ■

^^K • J^^

> ^X

^'T^'^^^B'^ lfK^4B &i

5 iL*,

'*' " "^^^^^^^f^^ Ct-;^:.;

_• j^

/£^ T j^^y .f*sf

^.^^

^J/^BH^^^K^/ . .^^M ^^^l/^^m J^^^K-^^W ■

t^mrkm

:^ -/M^y ^Sm9M

*r f-mL . ^VzM

;?#

TW^Kt -^^'^Bfc^ ^tT'''

iV'ifial; -

I^^^E ''^ M^lfeL^'^o

w^^

|^H| ' j^ff^^f"^/^

1

K i^il mL2

Photograph by Miss Esther Heacock, Wyncote.

Fig. 33. FLICKER AT NEST
Flickers feed their young by regurgitation.

Flicker: A box with inside measurements six by six by twelve
to eighteen inches deep, with an entrance two and one-half inches
in diameter ])laced near the top may be used by Mickers even though
it be placed only four or five feet from the ground. It may well be
placed higher, however. Flickers should be given such a box if
they show indications of drilling in the gable region of a dwelling,
to avoid damage to the weather-boarding. Such a box should be
placed directly at the site they have chn^^cti. '!^he wood used in a
Flicker house should be quite thick since the birds may wish to
peck at the inside themselves.

•For further instructinti c niucrning the making and placing of Martiw houses Mr. J. Warren
Jacobs, of VVaynes!)urg, should he consulted.

44

Crested Flycatcher: This characterful species is partial to a
well wooded nesting ground, but with an attractive box may come
to comparatively open situations. The box with inside measure-
ments six by six by eight inches deep should be placed from ten
to twenty-five feet from the ground, either in the open or fairly
well hidden among foliage. The entrance to the box, which should
be well toward the top, should be about two inches in diameter.
These assertive birds will use a great deal of soft material in their
nests and may take everything of that nature which is put out for
them. If Crested Flycatchers nest near a chicken yard there is
almost no chance for a hawk to do any damage, for the Flycatchers
sound a warning note which the fowls soon learn to heed.

Phoebe: It is scarcely necessary to put up a special box for
Phoebes (erroneously called Pewee, locally) since a convenient rock
ledge, cool spring house, old well, or shaded porch is almost certain
to be used as a nesting site. However if there is a sheltered porch
or open porti(m of a shed where Phoebes might nest, a simple
little shelf, or mere piece of board about two by four inches placed
about six inches from the ceiling will give them something to which
they may fasten their mossy structure. Phoebes become attached
to certain nesting places and will leave only when driven away or
when they can find no projection to which they can fasten their
nest.

Red-headed Woodpecker: The box for this species should be
six by six by twelve to fifteen inches in inside measurements, and
should have a two-inch entrance near the top. The box for best re-
sults should be placed rather high, and preferably along the open
trunk of a tree.

Red-bellied Woodpecker: The Red-bellied Woodpecker occurs
chiefly in the southern, southwestern, and locally in extreme western
Pennsylvania. I'oxes for this s])ecies should be the same size as
for the Red-headed ; the Red-bellied often nests higher, however.
The box for this species may be fairly well hidden by foliage and
branches.

Hairy Woodpecker: A box six by six by twelve inches deep
(inside measurements), placed rather high and with an entrance one
and one-half inches in diameter drilled well toward the top of the
box should meet the recjuirements of this species. Hairy Wood-
peckers are locally rather wild, however, and may not be very
amenable to boxes. They sometimes nest very early, and may drill
their holes as earlv as the latter part of March.

Downy Woodpecker: A box with inside measurements four by
four by twelve inches deep, with an entrance one and one-half inches
in diameter well toward the top of the box will do for the Downy.
The box should be placed from ten to twenty feet from the ground.

A'

f

W n

^ "^

r ^

\

•V'

f

45

Screech Owl: A natural cavity is often used by these little owls:
but a box with inside imeasurements eight by eight by twelve to
fifteen inches deep with a three inch entrance well toward the top
of the box, if placed fifteen to forty feet from the ground may be
used by them. Such a box should be placed in the fall since the
birds may select their future nesting site during the winter. The
box should be placed in a situation where it will not often be struck
by direct rays of the sun, and it is well to place ventilating holes
under the roof.

Sparrow Hawk: The same sort of a house as is built for a
Screech Owl will be used by Sparrow Hawks. In placing a house
for use of these harmless little hawks, however, an open situation
should be chosen, such as the top of a telephone pole. In putting
up a house in the open be sure of proper means of ventilation.

Barn Owl: While we do not often have opportunity to furnish
these beautiful and beneficial owls with houses, we may do so if we
learn that they live in the vicinity. The box should be ten by ten
by eighteen inches deep in inside measurements and should have
a six inch entrance about five inches from the floor of the cavity.
Such a box may be placed high in a large tree, near the trunk, but
may also be used if placed in the sheltered gable of a barn or in
a similar situation. Barn Owl nesting boxes should always be
placed at considerable distance from the ground.

Wood Duck: Occasionally this beautiful bird nests with us. A
box similar to that for a Barn Owl (ten by ten by eighteen inches
deep), if placed in a wooded situation from four to twenty feet from
the ground and near the water may be used by this or a rarer
species of duck, the Hooded Merganser, which may nest with us
rarely. These birds of course demand a certain isolation and we
cannot expect to lure them to civilized sections.

BIRD-BATHS

Birds bathe more than the unobservant i^erson might sui)pose.
This contact with water doubtless aids in the actual cleanliness of
the bird's body, but also helps to regulate the body-temperature in
mid-summer when the heat is often excessive. Sometimes the sup-
ply of drinking water is so scant that this, too, is a real problem
of the bird's existence. Therefore a well made, regularly cleaned
and filled bird-bath will serve both ends — drinking fountain and

bathing pool.

The designing of bird pools is subject entirely to the individual's
own tastes, means, and implements, but useful and beautiful pools
may be made at little expense.

I

46

If it is possible to erect a bird-fountain or some such bit of real
art on your premises, well and good, and the birds will show their
appreciation of it. But most of us must be content with, other de-
vices not so elaborate. *

Photograph by Frank Pagan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 34. A ROBIN AT HIS BATH

A comfortably shallow, well-placed bath will attract many birds.

A few general principles should guide us in the making and
situation of a bird pool. If possible the pool should be near enough
to easy water supply to allow frequent changing. If the slope of
the land will allow adequate drainage for a very small overflow, and
it is possible to feed the pool by direct faucet, pipe or hose, this is
ideal. Otherwise the pool should be filled periodically, and oc-
casionally cleaned. The pool should, if possible, be in the shade,
and yet not so near dense shrubbery as to allow the convenient
approach of a cat.

The simplest pans, bowls filled with stones, and other such re-
ceptacles if firmly set on or actually sunk into the ground are very
good. But the construction of a cement pool is neither expensive
nor difficult. Such a pool should slope in gently from all sides, and
should not be more than two and one-half to three inrhe*; depo in
the middle if the diameter of the water surface is not more than
three or four feet. It is desirable to have the cement surface set
with stones not only for a rustic effect but to give the birds particu-
lar points at which to bathe, where the depth of the water may suit

v

«- -*v

u.

t

(-

/^

r

47

them. Some birds will not bathe if they think they are going to
slip in. An inverted garbage-can lid carefully sunk in the sod has
been known to make an admirable pool, and a porcelain wash-bowl
filled with rocks so as to allow a sloping edge all around is usable.
A little observation of birds at the bathing pool will reward us
with an intimate knowledge of their characteristics. Robins are
among the most constant bathers, and when they have finished may
be completely drenched. Other birds are more dainty and restrained.
If the bathing pool happens to be near a year-around feeding-counter
in a favorable situation, such a combination is very likely to increase
the local bird population considerably.

Photograph by Game Protector W. L. Wright, Trauger.

Fig. 35. WILD TURKEYS FEEDING ON A STATE GAME REFUGE
Refuges mean food, shelter and safety for game birds.

PLANTING OF FOOD-BEARING PLANTS

In the spring a row of sunflowers may be planted somewhere at
the edge of the garden or along a building. These plants after going
to seed are certain to attract Goldfinches, and in winter will furnish
a valuable addition to the feeding-counter. Goldfinches also like
lettuce and cosmos seed very well; perhaps some lettuce plants may
be left to develup seeua for tlicm.

But planting for the birds should include various trees, shrubs,
and vines whose fruit the birds like in summer, fall or winter. Some
of these plants may not be particularly desirable about the premises,
but will do no great harm, and at times are largely responsible for

46

If it is possible to erect a bird-fountain or some such bit of real
art on your premises, well and ^ood, and the birds will show their
appreciation of it. But most of us must be content with other de-
vices not so elaborate.

Photograph by Frank Pasan, Wellsboro.

Fig. 34. A ROBIN AT HIS BATH

A comfortably shallow, well-placed bath will attract many birds.

A few g^eneral principles should guide us in the making and
situation of a bird pool. If i)()ssible the pool should be near enough
to easy water supply to allow frccjucnt changing. If the slope of
the land will allow adequate drainage for a very small overflow, and
it is possible to feed the pool by direct faucet, pipe or hose, this is
ideal. Otherwise the pool should be filled i)eriodically, and oc-
casionall\- cleaned. The pool should, if possible, be in the shade,
and yet not so near dense shrubbery as to allow the convenient
approach of a cat.

The simplest pans, bowls filled with stones, and other such re-
ceptacles if firmly set on or actually sunk into the ground are very
good. But the construction of a cement pool is neither expensive
nor difficult. Such a pool should slope in gently from all sides, and
should not be more than two and one-half to three inches deep in
the middle if the diameter of the water surface is not more than
three or four feet. It is desirable to have the cement surface set
with stones not only for a rustic effect but to give the birds particu-
lar points at which to bathe, where the depth of the water may suit

\' I >r

'■ *i

.^- • ,n

.11

-i

47

them. Some birds will not bathe if they think they are going to
slip in. An inverted garbage-can lid carefully sunk in the sod has
been known to make an admirable pool, and a porcelain wash-bowl
filled with rocks so as to allow a sloping edge all around is usable.
A little observation of birds at the bathing pool will reward us
with an intimate knowledge of their characteristics. Robins are
among the most constant bathers, and when they have linished may
be completely drenched. Other birds are inore dainty and restrained.
If the bathing pool happens to be near a year-around feeding-counter
in a favorable situation, such a ct)mbination is very likely to increase
the local l)ird population considerably.

Photograph by Game Protector W. L. Wright, Tranter.

Fig. 35. WILD TURKEYS FEEDING ON A STATE GAME REFUGE
Refuges mean food, shelter and safety for game birds.

PLANTING OF FOOD-BEARING PLANTS

In the spring a row of sunflowers may be planted somewhere at
the Qi\i:^i: of the garden or along a building. These i)lants after going
to seed are certain to attract (ioldfmches. and in winter will furnish
a xaluable addition to the feeding-counter. (loldfincbes also like
lettuce and cosmos seed very well ; perhaps some lettuce plants may
be left to develop seeds for them.

But planting for the birds should include various trees, shrubs,
and vines whose fruit the birds like in summer, fall or winter. Some
of these plants may not be particularly desirable about the premises,
but will do no great harm, and at times are largely responsible for

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

48

the attracting- of unusual bird visitors. Often the presence of such
fruits will keep the birds away from cultivated cherries, and other
fruits which we prefer they leave untouched.

Coniferous trees furnish a direct food supply to only a few birds,
and the species which eat such cones are rare and irregular in ap-
pearance— such as the beautiful White-winged and Red Crossbills,
and Pine Grosbeak. Cedar berries are much appreciated by wax-
wings and occasionally other species, and the presence of Gold-
finches and Pine Siskins about hemlocks and tamaracks indicate
they may be finding special food there.

The principal value of evergreens to the birds, however, is that
they form excellent shelter. Always are evergreen clumps a favorite
rendezvous, and numerous winter birds prefer such places to almost
any other situation.

Trees which attract birds on account of their fruit w^hich is de-
sirable as food include the various cultivated small fruits, Russian
Mulberry, Red-Haw, Mountain Ash, Dogwood, Wild-Cherry, Box
Elder, Beech, White Ash, and others. Birds may seriously damage
certain small fruits in yard or orchard occasionally, but if such trees
as mulberries are a\ ailable most birds will flock to them for food in
preference to all others.

Among shrubs which furnish food for birds may be mentioned
Elder-Berry, Black-Haw, Spice-Bush, Sumac, Shad Bush, Japanese
liarberry, Wild Rose, High-climbing Cranberry, Privet, Wild Rasp-
berry, Snowberry, and others. Vines such as Wild Grape, Bitter-
sweet, Virginia Creeper, Honeysuckle and others are sought. And
certain annual berries, such as the Poke Berry, are highly prized.

CLEARING OF LAND

The occasional weed patch or clump of briars along the fence
means more to the local bird population than most of us realize.
While we all enjoy the appearance of lands which are well cared
for, we should remember that the birds must have places of refuge
if we expect them to live near us. Therefore, in burning or clearing
areas it is well to leave all the hedges or fences well upgrown with
the weeds, briars, sumac, grapevines and shrubs that have naturally
grown there, and even in some cases to plant food-bearing plants
which we know the birds will appreciate. Some of these fruit-
bcaiing plants are appetizing to human beings, and thus they will
serve a two-fold purpose. If the best protection for birds is sought,
evergreens or such hedge plants as bois d* arc (osage orange) and
other thorn trees are admirably suited as shelters since hawks and
owls are not usually able to penetrate such havens with ease.

(^ iV^

r H

I

P

i-

•1

•vliV

•I wr

49

Certain species of birds, such as the Towhee, practically depend
on wood lots or such brushy areas as nesting grounds. Therefore
if birds are sincerely desired such little plots of ground where Nature
is allowed to develop according to her own moods, are indispensa-
ble.

OBSERVATION OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Those who know birds best are their most ardent protectors.
Therefore an educational campaign for accurate bird observation is
a wholesome protective measure.

Some of us are well enough acquainted with birds to know that
they have many different call notes and songs; that the dates of
their arrival and departure are amazingly constant throughout the
years; that their habits vary with food supply or season; that there

Photograph by W. W. Wilt, Franklin.

Fig. 36. YOUNG TURKEY VULTURES
As an eater of carrion the Vulture is of great value.

, .„.fV ^--'Ven^s t*^ ev^^rv dnv of the bird's life: that much in-
tercst centers about the building of the nest and the rearing of young.
And most of us know just enough about these things to have a keen
craving to find out more. Therefore, in a brief way may we not
recommend and encourage the widest possible observation of birds?

48

49

the attractin^^ of unusual 1)ird visitors. Often the i)resence of such
fruits will keep the birds away from cultivated cherries, and other
fruits which we prefer they leave untouched.

Coniferous trees furnish a direct food su])ply to only a few birds,
and the s])ecies which eat such cones are rare and irrei^ular in ap-
])earance — such as the beautiful White-winded and Red Crossbills,
and Pine Grosbeak. Cedar berries are much api)reciated by wax-
win<»-s and occasionally other si)ecies. and the presence of (iold-
finches and JMne Siskins about hendocks and tamaracks indicate
ihev may be findinjj^ special food there.

I'he principal \alue of exerj^reens to the birds, however, is that
they form excellent shelter. Always are evergreen clumps a favorite
rendezvous, and numerous winter birds ])refer such places to almost
any other situation.

'JYees which attract birds on account of their fruit which is de-
sirable as food include the various cultivated small fruits, Russian
Mulberry, Red-llaw, Mountain Ash, Doj^vood, Wild-Cherry, I>ox
Elder. I'eech, White Ash, and otiiers. llirds may seriously damaj^e
certain small fruits in yard or orchard occasionally, but if such trees
as mulberries are axailable most birds will Hock to them for food in
preference to all others.

Amonj.;^ shrubs which furnish food for birds may be mentioned
I'Jder-JUrry, ]^>lack-IIaw, Spice-P>ush, Sumac, Shad lUish, Japanese
P.arberrv, Wild Rose, 1 li^h-climbinij^ Cranberry, Privet, Wild Rasp-
berrv, Snowberry, and others. \'ines such as W ild (irape, I^»itter-
sweet, \'iri;inia Creei)er, Honeysuckle and others are souj.^ht. And
certain annual berries, such as the Poke Berry, are highly prized.

CLEARING OF LAND

The occasional weed i)atch or clump of briars along the fence
means more to the local bird po])ulation than most of us realize.
While we all enjoy the appearance of lands which are well cared
for, we should remember that the birds must have places of refuge
if we expect them to live near us. Therefore, in burning or clearing
areas it is well to leave all the hedges or fences well ui)grown with
the weeds, briars, sumac, gra])e\ ines and shrubs that ha\ e naturallv
grown there, and even in some cases to plant food-bearing plants
\vhich we know the birds will appreciate. Some of these fruit-
bearing plants are a])i>ettzing' to human beings, and thus they will
serve a two-fold purpose. If the best ])r()tection for birds is soitght,
evergreens or such hedge plants as bois d' arc (osage orange) and
other thorn trees are admirably suited as shelters since hawks and
owls are not usually able to penetrate such havens with ease.

I

V

MP'<

I

Certain s])ecies of birds, such as the Towhee. i)ractically depend
on wood lots or such brushy areas as nesting grounds. Therefore
if birds are sincerely desired such little plots of ground where Nature
is allowed to dcvclo]) according to her own moods, are indisi)ensa-

ble.

OBSERVATION OF PENNSYLVANIA BIRD-LIFE

Those who know birds best are their most ardent protectors.
Therefore an educational cami)aign for accurate bird observation is
a wholesome ])rotective measure.

Some of us are well enough ac<|uaintc<i with birds to know that
they have many different call notes and songs; that the dates ni
their arrival and departure are amazingly constant throughout the
vears; that their hal)its vary with food supply or season; that there

rhotoKiaph l.y W. W. Wilt, Franklin.

Fig. 36. YOUNG TURKEY VULTURES
As an eater of carrion the Vulture is of great value.

• • • 1 . ;.. „,.^ — ,1..,- ,,r th^ hirrl'v life- that much in-
afe ciraniaiic huhu in.^ mi c\\.i,> v,^^. . . .^

terest centers alx ut the building of the nest and the rearing ot young.
\vi\ most ..f us know just enough about these things t(» have a keen
craving t<. find out nmre. Hierefore, in a brief way may we not
recommend and encourage the widest jx-ssible ob^ervali. n ot birds?

INTENTIONAL SECOND EXPOSURE

I

50

i

There are innumerable facts about our commonest birds which are
not yet known. This should be encouraging to the student who
feels that he cannot accomplish anything worthwhile unless he
travels far to swamp, mountain, or seashore! Only by continued
eflfort of observers in widely separated localities will the facts of the
seasonal movements of birds be fully ascertained. In this matter
the popular bird-banding movement under the auspices of the United
States Biological Survey is accomplishing much that is worthwhile.
Organizations among the school children, such as Junior Bird Clubs,
are doing much good, as are too the groups made up of older people.
The Yearbook of the Scranton Bird Club, which is at hand, shows
clearly what wideawake, thorough work such an organization may
do; a recent bulletin of the Audubon Society of Western Pennsyl-
vania evinces the interest that organization has in its work, and
such well manned and progressive groups as the Audubon Club of
Norristown, the Audubon Society of the Sewickley Valley, Buck
Hill Nature Club, Doylestown Nature Club, North East Nature
Club, West Chester Bird Club, Wyncote Bird Club, Baird Bird
Club, Ulster Nature Club, and others are excellent examples of or-
ganizations which exist for a real purpose. The development and
possible unification of such organizations throughout Pennsylvania
is strongly to be recommended, for the cooperation of such observers
and workers is certain to result in increased protection of the birds.

It is urged that whatever notes taken in bird observation be as
accurate as possible. There exists among some observers such a
mania for large lists that birds which are very rare or unknown to
the region will be listed without positive identification. The good
bird student soon learns that it is just as important, we might even
say, not to have some birds in this list, as it is to have others. But
the problems of bird-study are manifold and had better be left for
further treatment elsewhere.

In our brief study of certain phases of Pennsylvania bird-life we
have found that these feathered creatures are valuable to us aestheti-
cally and economically, and are worthy of our encouragement and
protection. It is hoped that the pages of this bulletin may have
stimulated a desire not only to protect and care for the birds in the
ways suggested, but to develop further means of increasing the
numbers of our feathered friends.

W

r

<'

a

END OF NUMBER