122 



FLORIDA BIRD-LIFE 



It was with no small elation that I obtained this intimate 

 view of a Heron family and observed this so far as I am 

 aware before unknown method of administering to the 

 wants of its young. The prospect for making still further 

 additions to the life-history of the species, seemed admir- 

 able; but, the morning's work finished, I reached the border 

 of the forest just in time to see my tent in the pines ahead 

 burst into sudden flame, destroying everything in it but my 

 photographic plates which, being at one end, were rescued 

 by Mrs. Chapman. Paraffine used in water-proofing canvas 

 and a spark from the camp fire had proved a disastrous 

 combination, and work on the Herons was of necessity 

 abandoned. 



Water Turkey 

 They often assume this attitude while drying their plumage 



