830 EXPERIMENT STATION EECORD. 



In connection with nearly all the species discussed the author insists 

 upon the fact that the feeding- hal)its of blackl»irds are during the 

 greater portion of the year benelicial, and that the damage to grain 

 crops is for the most part confined to limited seasons, and is especially 

 noticeable where the birds congregate in great numbers. 



Results of the biological reconnoissance of the Yukon River region, W. H. 



Osgood and L. B. Bishop ( U. X J)<2'f- -^'J''-j ^''"''•'•■"^" of Biologind Survey, North Ameri- 

 can Fauna Xo. 19, 2)p. 100, jjIs. 7). — This bulletin treats of the following siibjects: 

 Itinerary; a description of the faunal districts of the Yukon River region; a review 

 of previous work done in this region; an annotated list of species and subspecies of 

 mammals, some of which are described as new. The foregoing subjects are by W. H. 

 Osgood while L. B. Bishop contributed an annotated list of the species of birds found 

 in the region under discussion. 



Scientific names in natural history, K. Sajo {Prometheus, 11 {1900), Xos. 547, 

 pp. 417-420; 548, pp. 433-437). — The author criticises the habit of forming several 

 specific names in the same genus which have the same significance, although pos- 

 sessed of a different form. The publication of specific descriptions in little known 

 periodicals or those having a small circulation is also criticised. The author believes 

 that this habit is partly responsible for the undue multiplication of synonyms. 



The jackal plague {Agr. Jour. Capje Good Hope, 17 {1900), Xo. 9, i>p. 525-528). — 

 Brief notes on the extent of the depredations committed by jackals and foxes upon 

 the sheep industry. 



The value of birds to the commonwealth, F. 31. Chapman ( Connecticut State 

 Bfl. Agr. RpA. 1899, pjx 76-113, jigs. SO). — Brief poimlar notes on the economic rela- 

 tions of a number of common species of birds. 



A report on the family of bee-eaters ( Meropidae ) , K. A. Satuxix and F. F. 

 Kavraiski {TriKli Karhc. Srhelhrrod. ShintzU {T[tiis),9 {1900), Xo. 2, ptp. 5J).— The 

 authors investigated the feeding habits of Merops apiuster and M. persicus, the 2 com- 

 mon European species of bee-eaters. Extended observations were n:iade on these 

 birds at the apiary connected with the sericultural station, and a report is made on 

 the number of bees found in all the stomach contents which were examined, and 

 upon other insects which were found to serve as the food of these birds. Observa- 

 tions are recorded from a number of correspondents in the different governments of 

 Russia on the habits of the 2 species of birds in different localities. A map is given, 

 showing the distribution of the birds in Russia. 



Methods of destroying injurious animals, II. L. A. Blaxchox {IJArt de 

 detrulre ks animaux nuisibles. Farts: J. B. BaiUiere cO Son, 1899, x>p. 292, figs. 112) .— 

 In this book the author has brought together and discussed in a summary manner 

 the various methods which have been recommended for destroying noxious animals 

 of all kinds. The volume contams a consideration of the following subjects: General 

 methods of destruction and legislation against injurious animals; and special methods 

 adapted for the destruction of injurious mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, Crustacea, 

 moUusks, and worms. Injurious insects are discussed under the headings of insects 

 injurious to furniture, clothes and carpets, man and domestic animals, and field and 

 garden crops. 



Information concerning game: Seasons, shipment, and sale, T. S. Palmer 

 and II. W. Olds ( C. N. Dept. Agr., Dlris'ioa of Biological Survey Circ. 31, pp. 20).— 

 This circular contains a copy of the Lacey Act, a tabulated statement concerning the 

 close seasons, the shipment of dead and live game, and the sale of game in the differ- 

 ent States. 



Wild animals and birds which may be imported without permits, .T. Wilson 

 ( V. S. Dept. Agr., Division of Biological Survey Circ. 30, p. i).— This circular contains a 

 list of mammals, birds, and reptiles Avhich may be imported freely without permits. 



