122 YEARBOOK, PUBLIC MUSEUM, MILWAUKEE [Vol. III. 



original, which is shown with its "leads" in position in figure 74, being 

 the most successful of the lot. 



Drop traps, as shown in the foreground of figure 75, were also 

 operated when we happened to be near. The automatics are prefer- 

 able, however, as it is only necessary to set them, and return, some 

 hours later if desired, to band the birds captured. All traps used 

 are entirely without bait. Sandpipers have a strong tendency to 

 follow a shoreline. In doing so they strike the trap itself or the 

 "leads" which guide them, still in the general direction they wish to 

 go, to the funnel. The low visibility of the screening allows them to 

 see through the trap, the continuation of the shoreline they wish to 

 follow, so they usually enter without much hesitation. 



In spite of a late start and the fact that traps had to be developed 

 and tried out, a few over a hundred shorebirds were banded, principally 

 Spotted and Semipalmated Sandpipers, but a few each of Sanderlings, 

 Sohtary Sandpipers and Semipalmated Plovers. One Baird Sand- 

 piper was also caught, which, due to its rarity, was saved for a 

 Museum specimen. 



As most of these Sandpipers migrate to Central and South America, 

 very interesting "returns" are possible. It is hoped that someone can 

 continue to trap here week-ends during July, August and September 

 of each year, it being considered likely that at that time the birds 

 touch this rich feeding ground on their visits to and from the north. 



While watching the traps, many interesting little scenes were 

 witnessed. The characteristic manner of feeding and bathing, and 

 the comical httle fights that frequently occur, particularly among the 

 Sanderlings and Spotted and Semipalmated Sandpipers, are good 

 subjects to record in motion picture during another season. The 

 fights are particularly amusing to the observer. Some of the birds 

 are regular bullies, lowering their heads and erecting their scapulars 

 and back feathers, and chasing or attempting to chase all others of 

 similar size from the short stretch of shoreline that they have chosen 

 for themselves. One Spotted Sandpiper was actually a nuisance, due 

 to his habit of chasing all others from the vicinity of the trap. This 

 individual became well known and was finally christened "Bully." 

 A person cannot study these little fellows intimately without being 

 impressed with their individuality, in some cases one might almost 

 say personality. 



The feathers of one Spotted Sandpiper became quite wet while in 

 the trap, and on being released, he attempted to fly and fell into the 

 lagoon. Quick as a flash he dove and swam under water a number of 



