52 REPORT ON INJURIOUS INSECTS FOR 1905. 



The Jackdaw. I think the worst charge that can be brought 

 against this bird is that of an egg thief. Looked at from the 

 farmer's point of view, it is distinctly beneficial. A large number 

 of stomachs have been examined of this bird during the past four 

 or five years, and the contents have invariably consisted of insect 

 larvae, beetles, earthworms, sheep ticks, and millipedes. 



The Magpie and Jay. Both egg thieves, but, fortunately, they 

 are fond of the eggs of the woodpigeon, stockdove, and black- 

 bird, and do much to check the increase of these birds. 



The food contents of their stomachs include slugs, beetles, 

 insect larvae, worms, etc. 



In view of the above expressed opinions, I would strongly 

 advocate the most stringent measures for exterminating sparrows, 



FIG. XXXII. THE STARLING. 



woodpigeons and stockdoves. In the interests of farmers and 

 fruit-growers, no effort should be spared to keep down their num- 

 bers. Landowners are often to blame for the large increase of 

 woodpigeons by not permitting tenants to use firearms. In his own 

 interests, no man should have anything to do with farms or 

 orchards where such conditions obtain, but leave those who are 

 foolish enough to farm or cultivate the same. 



I am strongly in favour of permitting (indeed, encouraging) 

 the taking of the eggs of the Chaffinch, Greenfinch, and Bullfinch. 

 The remaining species are, in my opinion, beneficial, provided they 

 are not permitted to unduly increase. 



In the case of the Owls, Swallows, Flycatchers, Wagtails, and 

 all such birds, no effort should be spared to protect and encourage 

 them, and every inducement offered to them to increase in number. 



