IOO 



Scott on tJtc ^Tig-rat 'ion of Birds. 



Area of triangle B, A, C, = 0.07020 miles. 

 Area of triangle b, A, c. =0.00439 miles. 

 Therefore b, B, C. c = 0.06581 = y-g^ mile. 

 Distance from A to B = four miles. 

 Number of birds seen per minute = 4A. 

 Number of birds per square mile per minute = 68. 



[Mr. Scott's novel and important observations definitely establish on a 

 scientific basis several points in relation to the migration of birds that 

 have heretofore rested almost wholly on conjecture and probability. 



We have, first, the fact that the nearest birds seen through the telescope 

 must have been at least one mile above the earth, and may have ranged 

 in elevation from one mile to four miles. It has been held that birds 

 when migrating may fly at a sufficient height to be able to distinguish 

 such prominent features of the landscape as coast lines, the principal 

 water courses, and mountain chains over a wide area. Of this, thanks 

 to Mr. Scott, we now have proof. It therefore follows that during clear 

 ^nights birds are not without guidance during their long migratory jour- 

 neys, while the state of bewilderment they exhibit during dark nights and 

 thick weather becomes explainable on the ground of their inability to 

 discern their usual landmarks, — points that have been assumed as probable 

 but heretofore not actually proven. 



These observations further indicate that many of our smaller birds 

 migrate not only at night but at a considerable elevation, — far beyond rec- 

 ognition by ordinary means of observation. A promising field is here 

 opened up, in which it is to be hoped investigation will be further pushed 

 not only by Mr. Scott but by others who may have opportunity therefor. — 

 J. A. Allen.] 



