THE BIRD STUDY BOOK 



island in Indian River is reserved and set apart for 

 the use of the Department of Agriculture as a pre- 

 serve and breeding ground for native birds." 



The gist of this order, bearing the authorization of 

 the Secretary of Agriculture, was quickly painted on a 

 large sign, and placed on the island, where all who 

 sailed near might read. Imagine the chagrin of the 

 Audubon workers upon learning from their warden 

 that when the Pelicans returned that season to 

 occupy the island as before, they took one look at 

 this declaration of the President and immediately de- 

 parted, one and all, to a neighbouring island en- 

 tirely outside of the reservation ! Signs less alarming 

 in size were substituted, and the Pelicans, their feel- 

 ings appeased, condescended to return, and have 

 since dwelt peacefully under the protecting care of the 

 Government. 



Congressional Sanction. — In view of the fact that 

 some persons contended that the President had over- 

 stepped his authority in making a bird reservation, a 

 law was drafted, and passed by Congress, specifically 

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