FOREWORD 



The purpose of this book is to give, simply, clearly, 

 and thoroughly, every possible suggestion and bit of 

 practical information which may be useful to those 

 who are beginning the fascinating study of birds in 

 their native haunts. 



Very many are undertaking it in these days men 

 who crave the excitement of the chase and yet dis- 

 like to kill, or who seek relaxation from the strain 

 of business ; women who are tired of being hothouse 

 plants, or whose nerves are at the breaking-point from 

 an unnatural sedentary life; boys and girls in the 

 schools who are finding that delight in the animal 

 creation does not cease when they are no longer little 

 children; teachers who realize the importance and 

 interest of the subject for the young, and desire to fit 

 themselves to interest their pupils in the birds. But 

 it is all new and perplexing, and there are a multi- 

 tude of things they want to ask about, all sorts of 

 inquiries as how to go to work to study the birds 

 afield. It is hoped that this book placed in their 

 hands may prove a ready friend to answer these 

 questions to their satisfaction and to start them upon 

 a happy career of outdoor delights among the wild 

 birds. 



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