PREFACE. 



The object of the present volume is to furnish a convenient 

 manual of North American Ornithology, reduced to the smallest com- 

 pass, by the omission of everything that is not absolutely necessary 

 for determining the character of any given specimen, and including, 

 besides the correct nomenclature of each species, a statement of its 

 natural habitat, and other concomitant data. 



Originally projected by Professor Spencer F. Baird, and based 

 essentially upon the grand National cabinet of American birds which 

 his energy, ability, and enthusiasm have developed from an unpre- 

 tentious nucleus into a collection unrivalled in extent and wholly 

 unique in scientific value, this work may be considered as, in a 

 measure, the consummation of a plan conceived by that illustrious 

 naturalist, whose works represent the highest type of systematic orni- 

 thology, and have furnished the model from which the younger gen- 

 eration of ornithologists have drawn their inspiration. Professor 

 Baird's great responsibilities and engrossing duties as Secretary of the 

 Smithsonian Institution and Director of the United States National 

 Museum precluded the possibility of his completing the work which 

 he had so long cherished, and had even begun, when called to the 

 high positions which he has filled with so much advantage to science 

 and honor to himself. 



Honored with the privilege of continuing the work commenced 

 by abler hands, the author has endeavored to fulfil his trust with 

 careful attention to the hope of its originator that the Manual of 



