246 YEARBOOK OF THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



At least 10 species of foreign birds have been recorded as enemies 

 of the codling moth, and there has been considerable agitation for 

 the introduction of one or more of them. The importation of for- 

 eign species is, however, notoriously dangerous, and if successful 

 would result in crowding out native species probably of greater value. 



Exaggerated claims have been made for all sorts of natural enemies 

 of insects, including birds, but all that can be truthfully claimed for 

 them is that their influence is to lower the number of insect pests and 

 hence is for the good. The amount of good done varies in different 

 cases, and admittedly the bird enemies of the codling moth deserve 

 the best protection and encouragement in recognition of their rank 

 as the chief natural enemies of the pest. 



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