2



One of our chief objects will be to endeavour to bridge over the gulf

which exists between the lover of live birds and the scientific ornithologist

—we believe that each has much to learn from the other. We want to infuse

a little science into the bird-keeper, and to interest the cabinet ornithologist

in the habits of birds.


A word as to our name. It seems desirable and even necessary, to

invent or acclimatize a word which shall denote “ a person interested in the

keeping and breeding of birds,” and Aviculturist (being analogous to

Horticulturist) will do perhaps as well as another. If any one will suggest

a better, we shall be glad to adopt it—till then, we beg to subscribe our¬

selves AvicuiyruRisTs.


We rely for the success of the Society upon the energ}' of the

members in inducing others to join, and in contributing to the Maga¬

zine. Those who are not prepared to write a formal article have

generally met with some little facts or fancies in their avicultural experience,

which will be of interest to others, and if they will note these down and

send them to the Secretary, they will place the rest of the Society under an

obligation. We want the benefit of the practical experience of all — we

neither expect nor want literary skill.


In order that the Society may be of real assistance to beginners,we have

arranged to give advice to members upon all matters relating to aviculture

by Post. The vexatious delay which arises when correspondents are only

answered in the columns of a magazine or newspaper will thus be avoided.

All lettersand questions must be sent to the Secretary, and contain a stamped

envelope for reply. The Secretary will forward the letters to those Members

of the Committee who are best qualified to deal with the subjects to which

they relate, and who are willing to undertake the task of replying to questions.

For the present, questions relating to Parrots will generally be replied to by

Mr. Camps or Dr. Simpson ; Insectivorous Foreign Birds will be undertaken

by Mr. Phillipps or Dr. Simpson ; Foreign Finches, by Dr. Butler or Mr.

Fillmer; and British Birds by Mr. Frostick or Mr. Swaysland. Those

questions and answers which appear to be of general interest, will be

published in the Magazine.


Dr. Simpson regrets that he cannot undertake post mortem examina¬

tions of birds, audit is particularly requested that bodies of birds be not

sent either to him or to any of the other officers of the Society. We

should be glad to hear from any member willing to undertake post mortems.


It has been suggested that a sale and exchange column should

be opened, and we are prepared to admit advertisements of birds at

the rate of 3d. for each insertion, of not more than two lines. Longer

advertisements will be charged in proportion. Advertisements of “ wants”

will be inserted free of charge. It is hoped that this arrangement will prove

of mutual advantage to our members, who will thus know with whom they

are dealing. We do not pretend to be exclusive, but we believe that under

our rules (which have been very carefully thought out, and will be vigilantly

administered), it will not be possible for any but honourable and straight¬

forward men and women to become members of the Avicultural

Society.


Signed on behalf of the Committee,


C. S. SIMPSON, Secretary.


H. R. FILLMER, Treasurer.



