iqo^ 1 DuTCHER, Report of Committee on Bird Protection. I4S 



Texas. 



Legislation. — An effort will be made to have the American 

 Ornithologists' Union model law passed during the next session 

 of the legislature, which convenes in January, 1903. While some 

 of the song, insectivorous and sea birds are protected under the 

 present law, many are not, and a large number of counties are 

 exempted from the statute. The large agricultural interests of 

 Texas imperatively demand that a comprehensive bird law shall 

 be enacted at once and strictly enforced. 



It is a pleasant duty to call attention to the very valuable work 

 being done by the Southern Pacific R. R. Co., through its Indus- 

 trial Agent, Prof. H. P, Attwater, who visits all portions of the 

 Commonwealth to lecture to farmers' clubs and granges ; this 

 gives him an opportunity to call attention to the value of all bird 

 life and thus create a sentiment in favor of its protection. The 

 Thayer Fund has furnished a large number of leaflets regarding 

 birds for distribution among the agriculturists and teachers of 

 Texas. 



Warden System. — It has not been deemed best to employ any 

 wardens on the Texas coast until a satisfactory law is in force. 

 If the next legislature enacts a good law wardens will be engaged 

 for the breeding season of 1903. 



Audubon Work — There is no Society in Texas at the present 

 time, but steps are being taken to organize one, and it is hoped 

 that before the next report is made a large and aggressive society 

 will be at work. 



Vermont. 



Legislation. — While the present law is a very good one in its 

 main features, it can be improved. An effort in that direction is 

 now being made, the A. O. U. model law being before the legis- 

 lature, which is now (November) in session. 



Wardeti System. — No wardens were employed by the Thayer 

 Fund. 



Audubon Work. — A society has been established about a year, 

 it having existed as a bird club for some time previous to organi- 



