278 BIRDS OF ONTARIO. 



is to be had. Early in April the northern migration begins, and the 

 birds may be seen daily, singly, in pairs, or in loose straggUng flocks, 

 passing toward the north-west. 



Much has been said and written in regard to the Crow and his 

 relation to the farmer, but so far no very satisfactory conclusion has 

 been drawn. It is matter for regret that the Crow was not included 

 in the list of birds handed to Dr. Fisher to report upon, for we 

 should then have had full details on the subject of his diet. More 

 than likely he would have appeared among those whose good deeds 

 balance the evil, for, though he takes eggs, chickens, sprouting com, 

 fruits and vegetables, he destroys immense numbers of mice, moles, 

 grubs, caterpillars and grasshoppers. He is subjected to continued 

 persecution, but he is well able to take care of himself, and that he 

 does so is evident by the increase which from year to year takes 

 place in his numbers. 



In regions where he ha.s not been molested, he comes about the 

 dwellings much after the manner of the Canada Jay, and where the 

 young are raised as pets they become quite familiar. Perhaps a 

 limited check is needed to keep the species in its proper position. 



