IV 
PIU3FACE. 
should form themselves into a Zoological Record Associa- 
tion, and should invite the cooperation of zoologists generally 
to attain the desired object, the principle of the Association 
being similar to that of a small society of gentlemen who had 
by its means successfully carried on for more than a dozen 
years a scientific journal in which they were interested. 
The resolution of the Committee was favourably received by 
the zoological public; and when, on the 16th of March, 1871, 
a general meeting of the new Association was held to settle its 
fundamental rules, it was found to consist of nearly sixty mem- 
bers, among whom were most of the leaders in every branch of 
zoology throughout the United Kingdom. 
Thus much being said by way of explanation, I have to add 
a few words respecting the present volume. Deprived by one 
cause or another of the cooperation of some of my predecessor’s 
most valued contributors, I have had to supply their place by 
new Recorders; and the result has been a much larger infusion 
of fresh blood into the staff of the work than had occurred since 
it was begun. Some of these gentlemen have wished me to 
say a word on behalf of their inexperience when succeeding 
Recorders of proved capacity ; but this seems to me unneces- 
sary. Their work speaks best for itself ; and if any deficiency 
of execution through want of practice be detected, it may be 
thought to be more than counterbalanced by the introduction 
of new, and perhaps improved, modes of treatment. 
The late continental wiir, as might be expected, has seriously 
deranged the publication of many scientific journals, and in 
consequence the zoological literature of 1870 is considerably 
