HINTS TO OBSERVERS. 
WHEN you begin to study the birds in the fields and 
woods, to guard against scaring the wary, you should make 
yourself as much as possible a part of the landscape. Most 
birds are not afraid of man as a figure, but as an aggres- 
sive object. 
The observance of a few simple rules will help you to be 
unobtrusive. 
First. Avoid light or bright-colored clothing. A dull-col- 
ored jacket and an old leaf-colored hat that you can pull 
over the eyes or push back from the face as the light re- 
quires, will do excellent service if you do not wish a com- 
plete suit. 
Second. Walk slowly and noiselessly. Among the erisp 
rattling leaves of the woods, a bit of moss or an old log 
will often deaden your step at the critical moment. 
Third. Avoid all quick, jerky motions. How many 
birds I have scared away by raising my glass too suddenly! 
Fourth. Avoid all talking, or speak only in an undertone 
—a most obnoxious but important rule to young observers. 
Fifth. Tf the bird was singing, but stops on your ap- 
proach, stand still a moment and encourage him by answer- 
ing his call. If he gets interested he will often let you 
ereep up within opera-glass distance. Some of the most 
eharming snatches of friendly talk will come at such times. 
Sixth. Make a practice of stopping often and standing 
perfectly still. In that way you hear voices that would be 
lost if you were walking, and the birds come to the spot 
