form as before, but with gratifying increase in fullness. All 

 but 12 of the species recorded during the two previous years 

 have been reported in 1908 and 31 species hitherto unreported 

 in the survey have been added to the list, bringing the total 

 number of species now on record up to 215. This work has been 

 carried on by members of the Natural History Society and will 

 be presented in the form of a summarj^ in the February and 

 March issues of the Bulletin of the Museum. The following 

 more noteworthy records may be mentioned here: — the taking of 

 a Red-throated Diver on November 21, by Mr. Samuel Lap- 

 ham, Jr. ; the discoveiy of breeding colonies of the Snowy Heron, 

 by Mr. H. R. Sass; records for the American Coot in summer, the 

 Canvas-backed Duck (a rare winter visitant), the Least Bittern 

 in the City; and the breeding of Bachman's and Swainson's 

 Warblers, observed by Mr. F. M. Weston, Jr., in company with 

 Mr. Arthur T. Wayne, honorary curator of birds. 



In the maintenance of the collection of Hving snakes records 

 have been obtained for 14 species in this locality, making a good 

 beginning for this group. 



An interesting series of black rats {Mus rattus) and of hybrids 

 between this species and the brown rat (M. norvegicus) have 

 been obtained from localities in the city. Unsuccessful efforts 

 have been made to secure these rats alive for the purpose of 

 breeding experiments. 



Specimens of the cotton rat have also been taken in this vicin- 

 ity and as opportunity offers the survey of the rodents will be 

 extended. 



When the installation of the Museum in the new building is 

 further advanced much more rapid progress with the biologi- 

 cal survey will be possible. 



Paul M. Rea, Director. 



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