44 BIRDS 



flapping in the wind. A similar rope must be run around 

 the sack at its junction with the ribs of the umbrella and 

 three or four pieces, each ten or fifteen feet long, tied to 

 it, these to be used as guy ropes to anchor the tent to 

 stakes, roots or any immovable objects. 



On two or three sides of the tent, on a level with 

 your eyes when standing, cut windows one foot by eight 

 inches, leaving the flap attached at the top side. Now in 

 these openings sew two thicknesses of green mosquito 

 bar. The tent should then be dyed a drab-green. At three 

 points cut vertical slits in the sides to correspond with 

 the size of the camera bellows and height of lens when in 

 use, and the tent is completed. Have plenty of safety 

 pins stuck into the goods for use while in the field. 



When taken down, the tent makes a small roll about 

 as long as an umbrella. All the parts should be kept in 

 one bundle by a couple of firm rubber bands. If you so 

 desire the umbrella cover may be removed, using only 

 the frame, and a circular hole left in the dome of the 

 tent for a ventilating flue. 



I have found that the umbrella, complete, has saved 

 me from several good soakings when I was overtaken 

 by rain storms while working in the field or woods. 



There can be no practical set rules governing the lo- 

 cation of the tent at all nest-sites. The judgment of the 

 individual at the time must decide that problem. This 

 much, however, it is safe to say ! Place the tent in such 

 proximity to the nest or bird as to insure a good-sized 

 picture, showing details on your ground glass. The loca- 

 tion and character of light must always enter into the 

 decision. The focal length of the lens in use will govern 

 the distance. The longer the focal length of lens the 

 greater the distance from which you may get a good 

 picture. 



Some birds disregard the presence of the tent, while 

 others are slow to accept its intrusion without much pro- 

 testing. Occasionally a bird is found that even abandons 

 its nest; especially is this true soon after the first or 

 second egg has been laid, or during early incubation. 



No detailed instructions are necessary on how to put 

 up the tent. Anybody can raise an umbrella. Then, 

 since it is an object that neither moves nor resembles any 

 known bird enemy, and is silent, it is soon accepted as a 



