286 Sketches of Some Common Birds. 



vultures are invaluable. While we can not admire the 

 habits of these birds, we should consider their utility. 

 Emerson tells us that *< Beauty rests on necessities," and 

 viewed in the light of their place in nature and the neces- 

 sity for their work, the turkey vultures are not so igno- 

 ble and repulsive as they are generally represented, but 

 they are rather servants worthy of our gratitude. 



