region where its parental duties are little interfered with. Though today more 

 numerous than the marbled godwit, its destiny is equally sure and almost as 

 imminent. Nothing short of absolute protection for a term of years will save 

 the species from extinction. L'nder the I'edcral regulations, the liudsonian 

 godwit, like some of its relatives, is given a close season till 1918. Such regula- 

 tions are easy to enact, but arc difficult of enforcement, especially in remote 

 districts, and unless the cordial co-oj)eration of the devotees of the shotgun can 

 be secured, the fate of this species, and some others as well, is only too certain. 



To a Woods Wren 



By W. F. Lcavell 



Tiny bird, so wee, ])ut friendly. 



As you hop about so near. 



With your ])laintive notelet clear; 

 It is well the woods are quiet. 



Else I had not known you here. 

 Miles from human habitation, 

 How so free from trepidation ? 

 Why your pert investigation, 



And for me your lack (jf tear? 



You, of birds, if not the smallest. 



Are most wonderfully frail : 



But the jiride that you exhale 

 Worthy is of something larger. 



If criteria do not fail, 

 You're indulging in reflection : 

 "Smallness is itself protection ; 

 But take note of my perfection — 



It tooks years to grow this tail.'' 



Animated, feathered atom, 



As a bluffer you excel ; 



How you perk and strut and swell. 

 As you look askance, so knowing. 



From the brush heap where you dwell ! 

 Though, in truth, your look pedantic 

 Seems to me a joke gigantic. 

 And I smile at each brave antic ; 



Little bird. I wish you well. 



— Dumb Animals. 



855 



