4< 



202 The Ottawa Naturalist. [Feb. ^ 



hand it should not be forgotten that they compensate to some 

 extent, at least, by destroying bush rabbits, and therefore, while 

 the sportsman would assuredly look upon them as an enemy, 

 the fruit grower, and those having an interest in forestry, might 

 well class them equally as a useful ally. 



February 12. There was a Richardson's Owl in the straw- 

 shed this morning. Later in the day we tried to feed it with raw 

 meat, but our efforts were unavailable, though it allowed a very 

 close approach, and in fact sat among the meat. 



February 19. Several Eagles, both Golden and Bald-, are 

 living upon rabbits along the Souris River. They are seen 

 almost daily and undoubtedly do much good by destroying a 

 pest which has no competitor among mammals injurious to 

 trees. Further up the river both species breed, according to 

 Mr. W. D. Black, of Margaret, Man., who says they are not 

 uncommon in that neighbourhood. 



It is indeed unfortunate that these fine birds, together wnth 

 several large hawks and owls, should be continually shot. Many 

 people seem to think they have done something exceptionally 

 meritorious when they relate the destruction of one of these 

 useful birds. But, it is time such deeds were painted in their true 

 colour, otherwise extermination will follow ignorance and the 

 country will suffer from the increase of numerous rodents such 

 as mice, rats, rabbits, etc., which in the past have been kept 

 within reasonable bounds. 



February 20. The Richardson's Owl mentioned above has 

 twice been up since that date. This morning it was found, as 

 usual, in the straw shed, and, ar is customary with these birds, 

 allowed me to approach within a tew feet. Later on I discovered 

 it with a house mouse in its claws, which it ate and then disap- 

 peared into the woods to sleep. 



March 18. The Canada Jays are now very much together. 

 They are apparently in search of a nesting site and go about very 

 quietly. Sometimes one, presumably the male, sings softly from 

 some low bush, and when they become separated both utter loud 

 cries. 



March 30. The Northern Shrike that has been about here 

 throughout the winter was shot to-day. It has on more than 

 one occasion made itself obnoxious by killing Chickadees, Red- 

 polls, and other small birds. As these had been specially 

 attracted by food, it was impossible to stand by and watch their 

 destruction; and so, after much threatening, the shrike has met 

 the fate he meted out for so many others. 



The economic value of these birds is questionable, for though 

 they destroy many mice and House Sparrows, they are most 



