No. 161.] 
13 
manded, not merely from a proper feeling of respect for her own 
sovreignty, bat alike benefitting her sister states, and conveying 
accurate and useful information to our European brethren. From 
a hasty estimate, it is supposed that the various forms of anima- 
ted nature exist in about the following proportions: 
Mammalia, 60 
Birds, 275 
Reptiles and fishes, 250 
Mollusca, 200 
Insects, 3,000 
Among all these classes, although the labors of Say, Harris, Le 
Conte, Harlan, and others have much enlarged the sphere of our 
knowledge, yet enough remains to occupy the attention of natural- 
ists for an unlimited period. 
In conclusion, the undersigned has to state that he has prepared 
a circular, which he proposes to distribute through the various 
counties of the State. From his slight past experience, he is en- 
couraged to hope that the intelligent people of the State will cheer- 
fully lend their aid in furthering his inquiries. 
All which is respectfully submitted. 
JAMES E. DE KAY. 
His Excellency Governor Marcy. 
J^eW'Yoi% December 3, 1836. 
