INTRODUCTION 



have been tempted to the earth for a brief rest. Then 

 there is the matter of observing the times of arrival and 

 departure of the many migratory species that visit London 

 regularly, either to breed or to spend the winter ; also 

 the numerous local movements of birds that are more 

 or less resident within our limits. In fact, London, 

 so far as its bird-life is concerned, is a self-contained 

 centre in many respects, and well worthy of systematic 

 observation. The gradual extension of range of certain 

 species within the Metropolis is another point of ex- 

 ceptional interest, the various favourable or unfavourable 

 influences aiding or checking expansion well repaying 

 careful and intelligent study. The distribution of many 

 birds within our radius is as yet very imperfectly known. 

 The magnificent parks and open spaces, the many 

 squares and gardens, the delightfully rural suburbs, 

 must ever prove increasingly attractive haunts for birds. 

 The waters are equally charming and alluring. The 

 care that is bestowed upon these places, the way they 

 are so constantly watched and guarded and their charms 

 preserved, all favour and encourage bird-life ; and if a 

 little greater vigilance could be shown in exterminating 

 rats and keeping cats (which should be shot at sight) 

 outside these beautiful spots, there seems to be no end 

 to the possibilities regarding birds that might be induced 

 to take up their quarters within London's limits. I am, 

 however, utterly opposed to the suggestions that have 

 been made with respect to the introduction of exotic 

 species. Our own avifauna can supply every need ; 

 and a little judicious management would, I am convinced, 

 induce many of our gayest and most charming birds to 

 take up their permanent residence in many of these 

 places. In some of the parks small aviaries have been 

 established, and it seems ungenerous to write a word 

 against them. I, however, am pleading for wild birds 

 alone. We cannot have too many in the Metropolis, 



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