THE PROTECTION OF BIRDS. 389 
native birds is found in all cities and most villages of the 
State. The introduced House or “ English” Sparrow comes 
first, and occupies the boxes. The Sparrow will nest in all 
boxes except those that are suspended by a wire or rope. 
Bluebirds and Tree Swallows will sometimes occupy such 
Sparrow-proof boxes; but the farmer 
need not use them, for he can keep 
his place clear of Sparrows by a 
vigorous use of the shotgun, and 
by putting up nesting boxes he may 
bring back the native birds. There 
are many localities where the Spar- 
row has never been very troublesome, 
and where native birds have contin- 
ued to breed practically unmolested. 
In such places we may put up fixed 
bird houses, with the confident ex- 
pectation that Tree Swallows or 
Bluebirds will nest in them, which is 
more than can be said of the swinging 
boxes. Nevertheless, where Spar- 
rows are very troublesome, the only rig.165.—sparrow-proof box, 
bird box that is practical is one that i oa ies 
is hung by wire. Sparrows seem to be afraid of any box or 
perch that is not firmly fastened. 
Wrens are not generally common, and the Purple Martins 
were so decimated by the storms of June, 1903, that people 
who can establish Martin colonies will be fortunate indeed ; 
but the Flicker, the Chickadee, and the Screech Owl are 
among the possibilities, while we may by chance attract the 
White-breasted Nuthatch, Crested Flycatcher, or little Saw- 
whet Owl. 
Let no one neglect to put up bird houses because of the 
expense. No money need be expended. Birds are not very 
fastidious about their quarters. Old, weather-beaten lumber 
seems to be more attractive to them than that which is newly 
planed or painted, probably because it resembles in appear- 
ance the weathered stumps or limbs in which they naturally 
find their homes. Very acceptable nesting boxes may be 
