

PREFACE. 



THE object of this book is not to treat the subject 

 of Ornithology scientifically, but simply to present 

 in a concise and familiar manner to the youthful 

 reader, some interesting facts relating to the birds 

 of our own country. Various works have been writ- 

 ten and published upon this subject, containing, 

 probably, all that the student or amateur could wish 

 to know; but being both voluminous and expensive, 

 they are quite beyond the reach of children. They 

 also contain, in connection with a variety of interest- 

 ing matter, an array of scientific details, which to 

 most young persons are unintelligible, and which can 

 only be appreciated by the more advanced student. 

 We have, therefore, while adhering strictly to an 

 approved systematic arrangement of the Genera and 

 Species, endeavored to avoid, as much as possible, 

 the use of all terms and expressions which would in 

 any degree confuse the reader, or detract from the 



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