PREFACE. 



As introductory to this little book, I think it is desirable 

 that its object should, in the first place, be explained. It is 

 intended solely for the purposes of reference in the field, and 

 has been very carefully compiled hy the combined aid of well- 

 known ornithological works, coupled with practical observa- 

 tions and notes made by myself from time to time in various 

 parts of the British Isles. The book is of a small size, and 

 should be carried in the pocket, where it would always be 

 handy. 



I am aware that an alphabetical arrangement has much to 

 commend it, but I have refrained from adopting such for the 

 very reason that, in the field, as elsewhere, the mind should be 

 trained to regard birds as creatures belonging to some distinct 

 order and family; accordingly I have adopted a scientific 

 arrangement similar to that set forth in Howard Saunders's 

 admirable ' Manual of British Birds,' a comprehensive work 

 that all lovers and students of Ornithology, requiring more 

 complete information, should at once consult. 



Information will be found about all British birds that breed 

 in these islands, and those that are regular visitors at one time 

 of the year or another. 



Bare species in some cases irregular stragglers and perhaps 

 unwilling visitors hardly come within the scope of this book, 

 as the chances of seeing them during a country ramble are 

 very slight. 



Dismissing at once those species of which only a few speci- 

 mens have been observed or obtained in this country, there yet 

 remain a goodly number of rare birds, and a short note about 

 them is given, either because in many cases, though irregular 

 in their visits, they may be seen in considerable numbers when 

 they do come, or because, though admittedly rare, they so 

 closely resemble other commoner kinds, that it is quite possible 

 they may have been overlooked. 



The various local names and some species enjoy a long 



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