66 THE AMERICAN NATURALIST. [Vou. XXXIII. 
useful handbook, containing keys for the determination of the species, 
as well as brief but sufficient descriptions of each bird undoubtedly 
observed within the confines of the state. By strictly following the 
nomenclature adopted by the American Ornithologists Union, he has 
avoided the necessity of synonymic lists, and on the whole the tech- 
nical matter has been reduced with commendable discretion to the 
smallest practicable compass, thus leaving ample space for observa- 
tions regarding distribution, habits, economic importance, etc. The 
technical matter is chiefly compiled from well-known manuals, for 
which due credit is given, and calls for no comment here, except 
that the compilation seems to have been done with care and judg- 
ment. 
The chief value of the book lies in the original observations of 
the author, and the student will here find a rich store of facts to 
ponder upon. The agricultural man will learn which birds to regard 
as friends, and which to treat as enemies; he will find many of his 
prejudices and superstitions combated, but he has been given large 
and convincing series of facts ascertained by the author, or gathered 
by him from other reliable sources, notably from the publications of 
Dr. Merriam’s division of ornithology of the United States Depart- 
ment of Agriculture. The lover of the feathered tribes will find 
many interesting bits of information concerning the habits of his 
favorites, and special attention has evidently been paid to the calls 
and songs of the various species. Young beginners and local orni- 
thologists will find the book a reliable guide among their specimens, 
and sportsmen have an easy means of identifying the contents of their 
bags. Ornithologists of wider sphere will find it a treasure of detailed 
facts relating to distribution and migration, which it will repay them 
to exploit. 
Ornithology is even now looked upon by many zoologists more as 
a pleasant pastime than a serious science, more fit for an amateur 
than for a working natural philosopher. It is true that ornithology, 
perhaps more than any other branch of zoology, is burdened with 
the ills resulting from a large number of irresponsible amateurs, but 
_I think it is equally true that no branch, on the other hand, is indebted 
to non-professional co-workers for most valuable help to the same 
extent as ornithology. The book before us not only illustrates this 
_ point to perfection, but a perusal of it will also convince the most 
sceptical that in exactness and methods the ornithology of to-day is 
of their habits. From the 22d Report of the Department of Geology and Natural 
a Resources moe frags 1897. W. S T State Geologist, pp. 515-1187. 
