TO THE READER 



It is with sincere pleasure that I acknowledge the support of an 

 already considerable number of subscribers, to the present edition 

 of the " Birds of America," among whom are many highly valued 

 and esteemed friends, as well as eminent persons, both in our 

 country and Europe — to all of whom I offer my heartfelt thanks. 



The many letters I have received from our distinguished natu- 

 ralists, assure me that this publication has progressed — as every 

 work should do — improving with each succeeding number — this I 

 owe, independent of my constant desire to please my patrons and 

 the world of natural science, to the talents, perseverance, industry 

 and care of all engaged on the work. To them, therefore, I offer 

 my thanks, accompanied, as I believe, by those of many of the 

 subscribers. 



Although this work has been issued so far, under, perhaps, more 

 than the ordinary difficulties generally attending the beginning of 

 every similar publication, I am gratified to say that it has appear- 

 ed with regularity, and that the 15th number, commencing the 

 2nd volume, is now before you. 



John J. Audubon. 

 New York, August, 1840. 



Vol. II. 2 



