METHOD AND EQUIPMENT 33 



be chosen, how birds start on migration, where 

 they spend the night, bird psychology, etc. In such 

 ways earnest workers may contribute to science and 

 gain recognition therein. 



A few suggestions as to clothing may not be amiss, 

 though in bird-study there are no fashions or conven- 

 tions along this line to be respected. The most use- 

 ful of all articles I find to be a pair of long rubber 

 boots. Those that merely reach to the knees will 

 neither keep one dry in a marsh, nor in long grass or 

 snow. Clothing had better be of subdued hues, to 

 blend inconspicuously with the outdoor surroundings; 

 browns or grays are best. Even in severe winter 

 weather it is well not to be impeded with a long or 

 heavy overcoat. It must be pretty cold to chill one 

 exercising in a sweater. 



A suit and cap of corduroy are well-nigh proof 

 against cold, but they are too hot for use in the 

 warmer seasons. Then one might use something of 

 light canvas, though it is exactly as well to wear out 

 one's old clothes. A light rain-proof coat is also 

 needful. On long drives or extended trips I always 

 plan to carry one. There are times when most of us 

 " bird-cranks " wish to be out in the rain, and 

 equipped with waterproof coat, hat and boots, it is 

 real fun to defy the elements. Thus fitted out I have 

 had glorious times tramping the sea-beaches in the 

 northeast hurricanes or made splendid finds of nests 

 in wet grass or rushes when the birds were sitting 

 close. 



