BIRD PROTECTION 309 



ever}' phase of nature study attendant upon the 

 back-to-the-land movement has found its order- 

 ly expression in wisely conceived and admirably 

 executed activities for bird-protection clubs and 

 societies. These organizations have taken up the 

 work with serious purpose which has already 

 brought about remarkable results. Winter feed- 

 ing of birds, planting of shrubs bearing berries 

 to their taste, protecting nesting sites, and the 

 placing of birdboxes, in short, being a real friend 

 of the birds has done much to increase their num- 

 bers and to bring them close about our homes, 

 both in city and country. So much interest has 

 been aroused it may even be said the crisis is 

 passed, the low-water mark reached, and the 

 tide is now at flood with a strong, deep current 

 of public opinion behind it, that makes quite 

 certain even better conditions year by year. 

 But earnest, united, and sustained action will be 

 necessary to keep the tide moving in the right 

 direction The fact that such a good beginning 

 has been made should occasion no laxity, but 

 serv^e as a stimulus to greater activity on behalf 

 of the birds. The great importance of conserving 

 all our material resources, of protecting beyond 

 the possibility of extinction the rich fauna with 

 which Nature has so generously endowed this 

 countr>% together with the dire need of protect- 

 ing food crops has given tremendous impetus to 

 this movement. 



Better protection of game birds. Ruffed- 

 grouse, Snipe, Quail, Woodcock, etc., is already 

 under way. Who can tell what favorable results 

 may be realized from encouraging Bob-white to 



