4- PREFACE. 



The illustrations were drawn from nature, by 

 the skillful pencil of Mr. Geo. H. Baker, of San 

 Francisco, and while they constitute the most ex- 

 pensive part of the book, they will doubtless be 

 found the most useful. The scientific names of 

 species are liable to some change as the science 

 advances, and the author begs indulgence in 

 cases where inaccuracies occur in respect to the 

 latest name. He has ventured, with much lies 

 it at ion, to propose English names for many of 

 the species, and trusts they may be found valua- 

 ble to some, to whom the Latin names appear 

 cumbersome. 



In conclusion, the little book is dedicated to 

 all who love to study these beautiful works of 

 the Creator, in the hope that many more may 

 become interested in this delightful science. 



Alameda, California, 



June, 1881. 



