116 SUGGESTIONS FOR THE STUDENT 



growing, expansive species. The conflict is not over food, for all the 

 species are of different feeding habits, but over the nesting-site. We 

 cannot imagine that the Bluebird will, even through force of circum- 

 stances, exhibit the Sparrow's adaptability, and, in default of a normal 

 site, build in branches, vines, electric light hoods in short, any place 

 which will hold nest-material nor has it strength to compete success- 

 fully with the Starling. 



Let us, therefore, join forces with this gen tie- voiced messenger of 

 sky and earth, by providing it with suitable homes in which these ene- 

 mies, for whose presence we are responsible, shall not be permitted to 

 abide. 



SUGGESTIONS FOR THE STUDENT 



Habitat. Define the difference between 'Range' and 'Habitat.' Describe 

 the habitat of a given species. What are the more important factors in 

 determining the nature of a bird's habitat? Can you mention an instance 

 where a change in the character of the habitat has been followed by a change 

 in the character of the bird-life? Give instances of daily change in habitat. 



Habit and Structure. Name the principal functions of the bill, and 



g've illustrations of each. Describe the feeding habits of Woodpeckers, of 

 awks, of the Woodcock, of Flycatchers, of Sparrows in relation to the 

 character of their bill. What birds use the bill when climbing? In what birds 

 is the bill adorned by bright colors or appendages in the breeding season? 

 Name the functions of the wing. Describe the flight of Ducks, Quail, 

 Hawks, Vultures, Woodpeckers, Purple Finches, Swallows, etc. Describe 

 the relation between the shape of their wings and their manner of flight. 

 What relation exists between the size of the wing and foot? What North 

 American bird was flightless? What North American birds use their wings 

 as muscial instruments? Which use them under water? How are they used 

 in defence? Describe their use in sheltering the young. 



Name the functions of the tail. Which of our birds use it in display? 

 Which as a prop? Describe its relation to manner of flight. 



What are the functions of the feet? Describe the various means of 

 locomotion employed by birds. What birds use only the feet under water? 

 In what way is a Coot's (Fulica) adapted to its wants? Why is a Phal- 

 arope's foot webbed? In what birds does the structure of the foot change 

 with season? How is the foot held in flight by various birds? What is the 

 relation of length of foot to length of neck? (There is almost no limit to 

 the questions which may be asked in regard to the form and function of 

 birds, and the student is urged to draw largely on local material to stimu- 

 late his powers of observation in this direction.) 



The Senses. How do the senses of birds compare with those of man? 

 Is the sense of smell well developed in birds? Can you mention any in- 

 stances illustrating the bird's power of taste? Its powers of touch? Is the 

 power of hearing well developed in birds? Mention several instances. Do 

 birds learn quickly the significance of certain sounds? Mention several 

 instances illustrating the bird's power of sight. Define what is meant by 

 intelligence in birds. Are some species more intelligent than others? What 

 is the difference between intelligence and reason? What is Lloyd Morgan's 

 definition of "reason"? Have you found any evidence illustrating the bird's 

 ability to reason? Why is it desirable to base stories of bird-life presented 

 as "true" on known facts in their habits? 



Status of the Species. What are the most important factors in de- 

 termining whether a bird is rare or common? How may man directly or 

 indirectly affect the members of a species? Give illustrations. Why does 

 the English Sparrow present an interesting biological problem? How may 



