Pelican Island Revisited 



7 



and I am glad of an opportunity to modify statements made in the article 

 previously mentioned, to the effect that all ground nests were composed 

 of grasses, while those placed in the mangroves were constructed of 

 sticks. There was, therefore, in 1898, a constant relation between the 

 nature of the nest and its location, showing either consistency in the 

 selection of a site or surprising adaptability in habit. 



In 1890, however, a number of ground nests were found to be made 

 of sticks, one evidently erected on another, rising to a height of nearly 

 three feet (see photograph on page 8). 



A CORNER OF PELICAN ISLAND 

 The nest on the young cabbage palmetto in the background, with a bird upon it, is shown in detail on opposite page. 



To yield to the temptation to redescribe the wonders of Pelican 

 Island would only result in a repetition of what I have already written. 

 I may, however, state that this second visit fully confirms my opinion 

 that Pelican Island during nesting time is by far the most fascinating 

 place it has ever been my fortune to see in the world of birds. But this 

 estimate of its charms only serves to increase the desire that this colony 

 of remarkable birds may be preserved. The island is very accessible, the 

 Florida law affords Pelicans no protection, and a party of quill -hunters 

 might easily kill practically all the inhabitants of Pelican Island within a 



