Recent Literature. 
85 
The Rathbun-Fowler list of the Birds of Central New York has already 
been noticed in this journal (Yol. Ill, pp. 34, 35). Its title is “ Complete 
List of the Birds of Cayuga, Seneca, and Wayne Counties.” Like Wil- 
lard’s list, it assumes too much. Ornithologists of larger experience are 
more modest, and seldom employ the term “ complete ” in connection 
with their own works. The paper in question, however, was evidently 
prepared with some caution, and when carefully revised (in which task its 
author is now engaged) will certainly constitute a valuable contribution to 
the Ornithology of the State. 
In the “Auburn Daily Advertiser” of September 3, 1877, under the 
heading “ Ornithological,” T. J. Wilson, M. D., remarks : “ I would 
make the following annotations to Mr. Frank R. Rathbun’s 1 List ’ from 
my own observations.” He then goes on to mention sixteen species ; and 
among other equally instructive sentences, occur these : “ Turdus muste- 
linus. Found breeding in great numbers on Howland’s Island.” “ Pams 
atricapillus. Fbund breeding along the river in numbers, in June 
’76.” “ Geothlypis triclias. Breeds commonly on Howland’s Island, but 
leaves for the South in July.” “ Gollurio borealis. A not uncommon 
winter visitor. I have one now taken by my brother in ’76.” Unfortu- 
nately the author does npt deem it necessary to mention, directly, to what 
portion of the State his list pertains (though “ Central New York” is evi- 
dently implied), but if “ Howland’s Island ” and “ the river” fall within 
the limits of the United States, the above information is certainly of great 
value ! He also states that “ Rallus crepitans ” was taken on Seneca River 
in August, ’75, but, if not too presumptuous, I would beg leave to suggest 
that the bird may prove to be R. elegans. The finding of a nest (two eggs) 
of the Black Rail (Porzana jamaicensis) “ in the reeds below Cayuga, May 
30, ’75,” is likewise mentioned, and, if correct, is really a valuable note. 
By far the best of these recent lists which I have seen, is that of “ The 
Summer Birds of the Adirondacks in Franklin County, N. Y.,” by Theo- 
dore Roosevelt, Jr., and H. D. Minot. Though not redundant with infor- 
mation, and mentioning but ninety-seven species, it bears prima facie 
evidence of reliability, — which seems to be a great desideratum in bird- 
lists nowadays. Based on the sound principle of exclusion, it contains 
only those species which the authors have themselves observed there, and 
consequently furnishes that which was most needed, i. e. exact and thor- 
oughly reliable information concerning the most characteristic birds of the 
limited region (Franklin County) of which they treat. 
For the benefit of those who have not had experience in this matter, • 
and who may be contemplating publication, I would suggest the observ- 
ance of four simple general rules, which, if adhered to, will place the 
authors of future “ Local Lists ” beyond unpleasant [criticism, and save 
much ill-feeling. 
1. Never mention a species unless you have positive proof that it has 
actually been killed in the region under consideration. 
