66 Bird - Lore 
Something in the distinguished appearance and dignified demeanor of this 
wild beauty renders him conspicuous as a foreigner in his civilized environment, 
and induces the immediate appellation of “Wild Duck” from every one who 
sees him. The elevating influence that unspoiled Nature exerts over our lives 
is manifest in the charm that attracts hundreds of park visitors toward the little 
wild Merganser, and causes them to stop and gaze with admiration upon his 
beauty. He so far overshadows his humble domestic relatives in character that 
they are entirely ignored while in his presence. Such is the charm of the wilder- 
ness which envelopes every wild being, radiating its message with every pulse of 
its life. The beholder is spirited back to the wild, simple days of his own heritage, 
when sin, sickness and suffering were the exception, and his endeavor to live a 
pure, natural life receives a new impetus. 
I hope that the presence of the Hooded Merganser in this crowded city will 
emphasize the value of natural associations to mankind, and prove a powerful 
mission to the cause of bird protection. 
a 
Tika - Fe 
FLORIDA SCREECH OWL ON NEST 
Photographed by P. B. Philipp 
