THEIR PLACE IN NATURE 23 



Summary 



To summarize briefly: The greatest function 

 of birds in nature is the utilization of their vast 

 numbers to aid in the maintenance of the great 

 Balance. Their chief mission is to check the 

 spread of insects. They help to hold within 

 bounds the spread of vegetation and at the same 

 time oversee the establishment of plant life in 

 localities where it has been uprooted or is absent. 

 Through their efforts the enormous shoals of fish 

 are limited, and barren pools are stocked. 

 They reduce the number of crop-destroying 

 rodents. They act as food for the support and 

 growth of other animals. 



In other words, birds are efficient policemen, 

 successful executioners, careful husbandmen, 

 and faithful martyrs to their cause. They are 

 efficacious guards of the Balance of Nature; and 

 their work is well done. 



