BIRDS OF INDIANA. 751 



which the young ate as soon as they touched the ground. These are 

 some of the innumerable ways in which Bobwhite attempts to help his 

 friend, the farmer. 



How soon will the farmer realize the situation? A dozen covies of 

 these birds upon a farm will do much to reduce the insect foes, and to 

 lessen their damage, and also to destroy the seeds of innumerable 

 noxious weeds. 



There have undoubtedly been many changes in the habits of the 

 Bobwhite since it came in contact with our race. Formerly they were 

 very sensitive about having their nests disturbed. Now my friend, Mr. 

 E. E. Quick, assures me they have, by reason of association, become 

 accustomed to man and will permit one to remove their eggs from 

 the nest and handle them. Prof. Cooke is satisfied the habit of 

 "lying to a dog" is acquired. He shows that in the western part of 

 Indian Territory, they no more think of stopping when they see a dog 

 than they would for a coyote; while, in the eastern part of the Terri- 

 tory, where they have become acquainted with dogs, they lie quite well 

 for them (Bird Mig. Miss. Valley, p. 102). Whether or not they have 

 the power to withhold their, scent was a long-disputed question. From 

 the experience of some close observers it would seem that they cer- 

 tainly think they have this power. 



Proper regulations should be made by legislation for their protec- 

 tion, and thorough education be given the people as to the value of 

 these birds. Mr. Thos. Mcll wraith informs us that some time ago the 

 government of Ontario passed an act prohibiting, under any circum- 

 stances, for a period of three years, the killing of quail. This law, co- 

 incident with mild winters, had the effect of increasing their numbers. 

 Afterwards they again became less numerous. Doubtless there should 

 be a law in our States protecting them for several years, and, after they 

 have been given a chance to increase, they should be guarded through 

 a close season, as at present. They are too valuable to permit them to 

 become exterminated. I desire to call particular attention to the 

 Hawks and Owls, which are treated later, in order that the reader may 

 become acquainted with the kinds for there are only certain kinds 

 that may be said to be destructive to our game birds. The really 

 harmful are: Cooper's Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Goshawk, and the 

 Duck Hawk. 



