The Audubon Societies 



273 



but the tree-trunk will often need an inverted tin funnel fastened about it, such 

 as is often used on the posts that support granaries. If this is not done, much 

 food that is supposedly eaten by birds will he taken in the early morning by the 

 rats, that have a wav of going where even cats will not be temi)tcd, while the 

 birds that we think well fed go breakfastless. 



I had such an experience with what had been a ver\- successful counter on the 

 top of a stone wall, which was a favorite place for the shyer birds until the rats 

 grew too bold. 



Regularitv in the suppl}' of food is the vital point after a feeding-station has 

 been established, for after the birds have been accustomed to regular rations 

 the lack of them will be all the greater hardship. Never go away in the hungry 

 season without leaving the suppl}'ing of the birds' table in reliable hands. When 

 all is running smoothly, what a zest is added to life by the waiting for and watch- 

 ing the hard\- winter troop. An}- day may bring a surprise, suddenly color will 

 liven the harsh iron-gray branches of the apple tree, and a flock of brilliant male 

 Purple Finches settle upon the dried currants that you had chanced to mingle 

 with the crumbled dog biscuits. 



This winter feeding is a lure not only for the birds but for ourselves — a motive 

 for bod\- and eye — outward and upward, and an outlet for gratitude and an inlet 

 for cheerfulness and winter sunshine. 



JAtVuLL FEEDING 

 Photographed by Clifford H. Pangburn, at New Haven, Conn., May 6, 1507 



