PROTECTION AND PRESERVATION OF BIRDS 135 



Audubon wild pigeons were so numerous that they formed 

 flocks that were miles in length and actually darkened the 

 sun. Nowadays they are rare. 



The unrestricted shooting of game has driven many kinds 

 to less settled regions or almost destroyed them. Such 

 shooting is especially destructive in the breeding season, and 

 an element of unnecessary cruelty and wantonness is added 

 when the young birds are left to starve because the parents 

 are killed. 



On the seacoast much harm is done the birds by the col- 

 lection of eggs, often by boat-loads, from the rocky islets and 

 cliffs. These eggs are eaten, or are used in tanning and 

 other industries, but the birds that are robbed are discouraged 

 and driven from their accustomed breeding places, and, of 

 course, the multiplication of the species is curtailed. 



Even our harmless or useful song birds are killed. Through 

 ignorance or prejudice, farmers and others destroy them be- 

 cause they take a httle grain or fruit. Hawks and owls, 

 which are as a class very beneficial, are generally killed as 

 chicken thieves. The small boys with air-guns, sling-shot, or 

 other weapon do a great deal of harm in the name of pleasure 

 or sport. Such "sport" is very reprehensible, and should 

 be severely checked by parents, teachers, and civic authori- 

 ties. In many cities laws are passed prohibiting the killing 

 of song birds. Animals in parks are generally thoroughly 

 protected for the benefit and pleasure of those who go there, 

 and this principle should be extended to the wild birds 

 everywhere. 



Our schools, by sensible and sympathetic study of the 

 birds, can do much to counteract their destruction. More 

 correct ideas can be taught about their harmfulness and use- 



