JT 
PREFACE. 
‘THe establishment of the Zoological Society forms 
an era in the history of the science in England 
as regards the higher departments of animated 
nature. In its Gardens and Museum our coun- 
trymen in general, whether previously attached 
to Zoology or indifferent to its allurements, have 
found incitement as well as opportunity to make 
themselves familiarly acquainted with the appear- 
ance and manners of a large proportion of the 
animal creation. To the most extensive assem- 
blage of living Quadrupeds and Birds ever exhi- 
bited in this, or perhaps in any other, country, 
has been added the attraction of a delightful 
promenade ; and fashion has combined with other 
and more legitimate stimulants to render the 
Menagerie as popular as it is instructive. The 
Museum too has had its full share in promoting 
the objects for which the Society was instituted, 
by affording to individuals of more expanded 
views the means of enlarging their knowledge of 
nature through a closer examination of her works. 
