INTRODUCTORY LETTER. 



The territory drained by the Kowak Eiver comprises a portion of Alaska lying north of 

 the Arctic Circle, and is a region heretofore unknown to explorers. With the exception of the 

 immediate vicinity of the river mouth, the entire region is mountainous. Forests of spruce, white 

 birch, poplar, and cotton wood are found along the river banks, and the open portions are covered 

 with a luxuriant growth of vegetation. 



The following ornithological notes, collected during a reconnaissance of the river, are incom- 

 plete. Inasmuch as all, or nearly all, the birds are migratory during the winter months, the 

 discovery of new species was not to be expected. It is believed, however, that the present paper 

 will give a good idea of bird life in that region. Other species will undoubtedly be added to the 

 list when further research is made. The StrigidiB, Falconidse, Scolopacidse, and Aiiatida;, enumer- 

 ated in the present paper, are not a complete list. In certain instances where doubt existed, and 

 no specimens were obtained, the bird has been excluded from the list. 



The geographical distribution of several species has been enlarged, and in other cases the 

 northern limit has been established. The ornithology of Alaska is far from complete, and it is 

 believed that any addition will be welcomed by naturalists. 



Samuel B. McLenegan, 

 Assistant Engineer, U. 8. Revenue Marine. 



San Francisco, Cal., October 31, 1884. 



Ill 



