PREFACE xi 



colonies of water-birds, from Maine to the Gulf of Mexico, and 

 elsewhere. Some of these breeding-resorts, through the repre- 

 sentations of this association, have been set off as government 

 reservations by President Roosevelt, than whom the birds 

 have no more friendly protector. 



It is a delightful experience for one who loves the birds to 

 visit these protected colonies, once nearly annihilated for the 

 millinery market, or in wantonness, but now swarming with 

 bird-life. Other localities are still suffering in the same way 

 as did these, largely because the " sinews of war" have not 

 been supplied for their protection. Here is a great economic 

 and humanitarian movement which consecrated wealth has 

 hitherto overlooked. If it could be properly endowed and 

 supported, immense good would result. Our fields, woods, 

 shores, and waters might abound afresh in beautiful wild life, 

 and agriculture, our basal industry, would be spared increas- 

 ing devastation and loss. 



If the portrayal of some of the delights which I have found 

 amid beautiful nature, in the haunts of the birds, shall help to 

 kindle in others the enthusiasm which has done so much for 

 me with its rewards of health and happiness, and serve to 

 gain new friends for the birds, I shall be more than satisfied. 



HERBERT K. JOB. 



KENT, CONNECTICUT. 

 April i, 1905. 



