4 
PREFACE. 
The illustrations were drawn from nature, by 
the skillful pencil of Mr. Geo. H. Baker, of San 
Francisco, and while they constitute the most ex- 
pensive part of the book, they will doubtless be 
found the most useful. The scientific names of 
species are liable to some change as the science 
advances, and the author begs indulgence in 
cases where inaccuracies occur in respect to the 
latest name. He has ventured, with much hes 
itation, to propose English names for many of 
the species, and trusts they may be found valua- 
ble to some, to whom the Latin names appear 
cumbersome. 
In conclusion, the little book is dedicated to 
all who love to study these beautiful works of 
the Creator, in the hope that many more may 
become interested in this delightful science. 
Ax^ameda, Caijeornia, 
June, 1881. 
dsi 
