INTRODUCTION 



This account of the Oberlin Grackle Roost is based upon three years' 

 more or less continuous study from the first appearance of the birds 

 in the trees to the final departure of the last one. Thus far the present 

 year (1897) has added little to what has already been learned, partly due 

 to a pressure of other duties during the early weeks of the gathering of 

 the birds, partly because it is yet too early in the summer for any marked 

 features in the habits to be looked for. 



The facts given are taken from notes written on the spot day after day, 

 and while I cannot hope that there are no errors of observation or inter- 

 pretation, I shall be satisfied if this account of a single gathering stimu- 

 lates others to a study of any similar gatherings within their reach. It 

 would be interesting and valuable to know in how many villages and 

 cities of each state such roosts occur, with the numbers inhabiting each 

 roost. There must also be many in swamps and woods far removed 

 from villages, in some parts of the country. Mention of such would 

 show in what regions the grackles still cling to old habits. 



It gives me pleasure to acknowledge the kindness of Mr. R. M. Strong, 

 who prepared the map of the College Campus, and whose friendly ad- 

 vice and encouragement have been greatly appreciated. Thanks are also 

 due the College Y. M. C. A., by whose kindness the map of Oberlin 

 village has been secured. Any acknowledgment of thanks would be 

 incomplete without mention of the kindly interest and valuable suggest- 

 ions of Professor A. A. Wright, and the enthusiasm of the students of 

 my ornithology classes, which have been a constant inspiration and incen- 

 tive to better and more faithful work. 



Lynds Jones. 



Oberlin, Ohio, July 30, 1897. 



