17 
of Zoological Street to Girard Avenue in place of it, cut a 
narrow strip off from the northwest boundary of the 
grounds, and required the removal of the greenhouses, 
barn, and other service buildings. These were recon- 
structed during the spring. 
A double iron cage has been built near the Monkey 
House, with the intention of placing in it species which are 
able to endure our winters without other protection. 
A large honey-locust tree just outside the western en- 
trance of the Small Mammal House has been surrounded 
by a fence, forming a most attractive inclosure for raccoons. 
The tree has a large cavity at its base, and a hollow log, 
such as is a favorite retreat for these animals, was placed 
in the inclosure. With these natural retreats at hand, it is 
remarkable that the raccoons have chosen to pass the win- 
ter, even through its most severe storms, sleeping on the 
upper branches, forty or more feet above the ground. 
While the year has been a satisfactory one in most re- 
spects as to the extent and condition of the collection, the 
need for more enclosures of many kinds has been severely 
felt. Opportunities have been missed of securing speci- 
mens of interest and importance, through want of room. 
The chief need at present is, perhaps, of a considerable ad- 
dition to outdoor enclosures for native mammals and birds. 
With the limited means which can be yearly devoted to 
the purpose, the growth of this, from an educational stand- 
point most important part of the collection, must be slow. 
No extensive repairs have been required except the relay- 
ing of some asphalt walks in the central portion of the 
Gardens. 
For the many gifts and courtesies received the Directors 
extend their thanks. 
By order of the Board, 
ARTHUR ERWIN BROWN, 
Secretary. 
