2 PLAN OF THE WORK 



than with the part they play as the 'jewels of creation,' when, with 

 no loss of appreciation of the esthetic side of bird-life, we may make 

 our bird biographies a storehouse of exact and detailed observations 

 in regard to a bird's distribution, migrations, its manner of courting, 

 singing, nest-building, incubating, caring for its young, the relation 

 between its structure and habit, etc." 



The concluding lines were then expanded into an outline bio- 

 graphy representing the manner in which it was desired to treat each 

 species ; and it may at once be confessed that in only a small number 

 of instances have contributions been received which would permit 

 of the treatment proposed. Of observations on migration, numerical 

 abundance, local distribution, and nesting dates, there have been no 

 lack; valuable descriptions of haunts, actions, and, particularly, of 

 song have been sent, but the minute, intimate study revealing the 

 bird's inner life and relation to its surroundings has, in most 

 instances, yet to be made. Such studies result only from definitely 

 directed and prolonged observation, and, in the development of orni- 

 thological science in America, we are only just beginning to receive 

 contributions from naturalists who, not content with the mere ability 

 to name the birds of their own locality and describe their habits in 

 a general way, have chosen some particular subject or species for 

 thorough investigation. However, it is believed that the present 

 volume adequately reflects existing knowledge of the North American 

 Mniotiltidae and it is hoped, therefore, may prove a stable foundation 

 on which to build a more complete structure. 



At the outset the author disclaims any special knowledge of the 

 members of the family of which this book treats. Circumstances, 

 some of which have been before mentioned, have induced him to 

 undertake its preparation ; and only the generous cooperation of other 

 workers has enabled him to complete the task. 



A special effort has been made to acknowledge fully all sources 

 of assistance. Manuscript contributions have been marked as such, 

 while information which has been previously published is, when prac- 

 ticable, given in the words of its author. In this connection intro* 

 ductory and transition remarks and other editorial ear-marks, which 

 become tiresome through frequent repetition and tend to rob the 

 matter quoted of its own distinctive character through the needless 

 interposition of another personality, have been avoided as much as 

 possible. While the result may be a less finished, it is, to our mind, a 

 more effective whole. 



