X INTRODUCTION*. 



are covered with tjie same fuel which have converted 

 barren rocks in Scotland into sources of immense wealth, 

 might lead to important results. 



The great resources of our State in its fisheries are 

 already known. It cannot, however, be without its use, 

 even in an economical point of view, at the moment 

 when, by the opening of new markets, they are be- 

 coming still more valuable, to review their extent and 

 examine the details. There are those now living, who 

 remember the time, when, along a great portion of 

 the New England coast, the halibut, when taken, was 

 thrown away ; and the use of the flesh of the sword- 

 fish and skate, is of recent introduction. Several kinds 

 of fresh-water fish are rejected in some parts of the 

 country which are considered good eating in others. 



The examination of the habits of birds has led intel- 

 ligent persons to the conclusion, that it is doubtful, at 

 least, whether a single one is found in Massachusetts 

 which does not more good than harm to the farmer ; 

 and has made it certain that many, now looked upon as 

 enemies, are friends, of such importance, that without 

 them the business of husbandry could not go on. 



How many groundless fears will be removed from 

 the minds of anxious parents by a knowledge of the 

 fact that only a single venomous serpent is known to 

 exist in Massachusetts, and that one confined to certain 

 districts ; and that all newts, tortoises, and other rep- 

 tiles are perfectly harmless. 



The examination of the insects is held by all to be a 

 matter of the greatest moment. There are multitudes 

 whose habits are known so imperfectly, that we can do 

 absolutely nothing towards their extermination, and 

 which, were it not for the birds and reptiles, would 



