57 
But apart from these considerations, it must be admitted that 
the destruction of certain groups of birds tends to derange that 
nicely-balanced harmony which is everywhere apparent in the 
dominion of Nature. Ample proof of this has been experienced in 
our own country, where the banishment of owls has been known to 
result in an inordinate increase of the various species of field mice, 
which constitute the ordinary food of these useful birds, and also 
in other countries, where the disappearance of insectivorous species 
has been followed by insect plagues—these examples, and many 
others which could be cited, tending to shew that Nature’s plans 
are, at least, incapable of amelioration through man’s interference. 
To advocate the protection of eagles and falcons, therefore, for 
a time at least, would appear to us to be but a reasonable duty ; 
and to influence our landed proprietors, with whom the power 
chiefly lies, in their favour, we would regard as only a just com- 
pensation for injuries already inflicted. It is certainly a matter of 
regret that some of our Scottish proprietors should actually have 
lent their influence against the protection of bird life. From these 
nothing can be expected but an unwilling obedience to laws already 
enacted for the preservation of certain maritime species that throw 
themselves entirely on the mercy of man during the breeding 
season; and naturalists may indeed congratulate themselves that 
the recent opposition brought to bear against the passing of this 
humane and salutary law was signally defeated. 
We still cling to the hope that similar enactments may yet be 
framed for the protection of land birds, from the soaring eagle to 
the timid thrush; and until this takes place, proprietors would 
earn the gratitude of all true naturalists by resolving to discontinue 
the deadly practice of exterminating what their keepers have 
branded as vermin, and let our woods, fields, and mountain sides 
regain what has now for many years been wanting to give a charm 
to some of the finest, and, at the same time, the wildest scenery 
in the British Islands. 
In a volume of 220 pages now before us, relating to the “Game 
Laws of the principal States of the United States and Canada,” 
we find that Section VI. of the laws of the State of New York pro- 
vides for the protection of a large number of land birds, including 
the eagle, fish hawk, night hawk, whip-poor-will, swallow, oriole, 
woodpecker, bobolink, or any other harmless bird. The penalty for 
violating the provisions of this Act is stated at fifty dollars for 
H 
