184 LIFE-HISTORIES OF BIRDS 



Stronger evidence could not be adduced to show 

 the modifying influences which civilization has 

 brought to bear upon indigenous birds. 



Hirundo horreorwn, Barton. 



No one of all our North American species is 

 more abundant and better known than the subject 

 of the present sketch. From its first appearance 

 in early May, till its departure about the I5th of 

 September, the immense good which it accom- 

 plishes should prompt us to accord to it a 

 generous welcome, and bestow upon it the full pro- 

 tection of the laws. The myriads of insects which 

 it destroys during its temporary stay, should com- 

 mend it to public favor. 



It frequents our pastures where the cattle are 

 grazing, and kindly relieves them of their dip- 

 terous tormentors, even alighting upon their backs 

 for this purpose; it puts an end to the insects that 

 infest our fruits and vegetables, and indirectly rids 

 man of many of his inveterate insect- foes. It may 

 be justly characterized as an unmixed good. Not 

 the slightest tinge of evil, we are happy to say, 

 exists in its nature, to mar the happy results which 

 flow from its labors. 



The solicitude which it manifests towards its 

 fellows is proverbial. Who has not descerned its 

 willingness and readiness to assist a comrade in 

 distress, and the piteous cries of appeal which it 

 utters when danger is imminent! These estimable 

 traits are too well-known to require any portrayal 



