average — an average which is beneficial to the species 

 itself; where the result is not destructive. Of course 

 singly, they cannot be considered, but as a whole, the 

 whole amount caused by the destructive forces versus 

 the natural or naturally caused increase. Where the 

 increase beyond the standard which I have spoken of 

 is less than the total destruction, as is the case with 

 regard to most species at the present time; then the 

 destructive force which is greatest and yet also least 

 useful in other ways — this force should be reduced, 

 at least temporarily. 



This is not a question which can be settled and 

 adjusted once and for all time. It is a matter re- 

 quiring careful attention, careful consideration and 

 a carefully drawn conclusion and basis for control. 

 Modification, not abolition, is what we are fighting 

 for. No one cause is to blame for the present lament- 

 able rarity of wild-life ; but together the result of the 

 various destructive forces is appaling. 



The Somerset Hills Bird Club is greatly indebted 

 to the National Association of Audubon Societies, 

 through the General Secretary, Mr. T. Gilbert Pear- 

 son, for the use of the colored plates of the Oriole 

 (cover), the Red-winged Blackbird, the House Wren 

 and the Bob White. 



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