316 CALIFORNIA ACADEMY OF SCIENCES [Proc. 4th Ser. 



both opened to the public during the year and it may be noted 

 that the artistic finish of the background paintings by Capt. 

 Chas. B. Hudson, has received much favorable comment 

 and so, too, the general arrangement and the grouping of the 

 birds by Mr. Paul Fair. A number of the smaller groups, 

 too, have been added in this hall. 



For large exhibits the space in the Bird Hall is now ex- 

 hausted, and there are but two alcoves not yet in use in the 

 Mammal Hall. The space which the new building provided 

 a few years ago, is already practically in full use. The 

 Academy needs an auditorium. This is evidenced by the 

 large attendance at the popular Sunday afternoon lectures, 

 for which the space temporarily provided is not well suited. 

 This space should be added to the Bird Hall. The need is 

 pressing, in other words, for another section of the Museum 

 building. May we not hope that, recognizing this need and 

 the earnest endeavor of the Academy to be of public service, 

 that some one or more of those of this community who have 

 the means to do so will come to the Academy's aid in this 

 matter and provide the funds which would enable an expan- 

 sion of its museum and of its general activities. 



The activities in the several departments are fully set forth 

 in the reports of the Director of the Museum and of the 

 Curators. I need only say that the work that is being done 

 is creditable to the Academy and that there is no lack of in- 

 terest and endeavor to meet the task which the Academy has 

 made its own. 



The time has now come for making some effort to increase 

 the membership of the Academy. Our dues are nominal, only 

 $5.00 per annum, and there is no admission fee. Any one 

 interested in science or desiring to aid in the advancement of 

 science is eligible to membership. The Council plans to name 

 and maintain a membership committee and requests that 

 notice be sent of any person desiring to become a member. 



On behalf «f the Officers of the Academy, I desire to again 

 express their appreciation of the support which they have 

 received from the membership in their efforts to make the 

 Academy useful and of service to the public. I take pleasure, 

 too, in acknowledging the faithful service which has been 

 rendered by its staff of employees. 



