73



Correspondence.



on that pure and unrenumerative science which is the forerunner

of economic science to which in the twentieth century we owe

so much.


THE WEATHER*


This is a small pamphlet dealing in a very concise and

popular manner with weather instruments and how to use them.

Although hitherto very little work has been done in observing

the behaviour of animals in correlation with the climatic con¬

ditions to which they are exposed, we are convinced that a wide

field of experimental study might be carried on on these lines.

For instance we had at the beginning of this season no less

than ten litters of rodents (of 3 species) born within four days.

The animals had been paired two months previously and had

been kept out of doors and all fed on similar food ; the only

variable element was the climate and had a careful note of the

temperature and humidity been kept we should probably have

had some clue to work on.


Aviculturists, therefore, who can afford the time might

well take up weather observing in relation to the behaviour of

their captives.



CORRESPONDENCE, NOTES, ETC,


PROTECTION OF THE QUAIL,


Sir, —The Field of Oct. 1st contains an able and moderate statement

by Mr. F. C. Selous on the need that England should join the international

combination to protect Quail, if these are to be saved from extermination.

Many such appeals to our supposed national love of fair play have been

made in the past, but England remains the chief marplot to the scheme

which most other countries have long ago put in force, namely, to jointly

respect the breeding season of these little migrant game birds, which, in¬

cidentally, are highly useful to agriculture.


I write to suggest that we aviculturists, who love birds well enough

to include them among our penates, should set an example, and make a

beginning to check, at least during the spring and summer, the present

abuse of Quail, with its attendant cruelty aud enormous waste.


Will not you, Mr. Editor, publish a list of those of our members who



Weather Instruments and how to use them. —G. D. W. Homer, F. R. Met. Soc. 48pp.

(illustrated). Loudon: Whiterby & Co. Sixpence net.



