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SEEN ANY ODD BIRDS THIS SUMMER ? 

--No, we don't mean the kind that run around with binoculars and squeal: "Oh, 
look! A Double-breasted Seersucker!" We mean the birds that are unusual for this 
time of year, or that seem to be far out of their native haunts--such as a Mountain 
Bluebird in Moline, European Cormorant on Chicago's Lake Front, or Snowy Owl any- 
where in Illinois in July. Send in your "rare bird" records to our Field Notes 
Editor, Mr. Richard Hoger, 2 S 101 Park Boulevard, Glen Ellyn, Illinois. 
STARLINGS FASCINATED BY AIRPLANE ENGINES 
Ever since starlings were found in the engines of a turbo-prop Electra airplane 
after it crashed in Boston in October, 1960, scientists have puzzled over the 
peculiar attraction the plane holds for the birds. The Federal Aviation Agency 
Research Institute at Norman, Oklahoma, believes it has found a solution in the 
song of the cricket. These insects make a sound similar to the whine of Electra 
engines (the sound patterns are identical on an oscilloscope). Crickets satisfy 
the voracious appetites of starlings in October, which is the mating month for 
crickets--hence their month to be noisy. 
The scientists noted that when an Electra was taxiing, starlings became agit- 
ated and followed about 50 fect behind in a group, rather than flying in a loose 
pattern as usual. Tape recordings were made of all planes using Will Rogers Field; 
when played back, the noise from most planes frightened the birds, but the Electra 
sounds excited them, The men also made recordings of chirping crickets--and that 
noise had the same effect on the starlings as an Electra motor. 
Researchers recommend a change in the sound pattern of Electra engines. Other 
solutions include masking the sound or adding a sound repulsive to the birds. 
--From the NATIONAL OBSERVER, May 1962 
SILENT SPRING 
Rachel Carson, author of the best-seller, THE SEA AROUND US, has published 
three shocking articles in the NEi! YORKER magazine on the effects of pesti- 
cides and weedicides on our wildlife. Under the title, "A Reporter at 
Large," the articles appeared in the issues of June 16, 23, and 30, 1962. 
It is hoped that the articles will be republished in book form. Dr. Carson 
gives careful documentation of the devastating effects of D.D.T., weed- 
killers, heptachlor, crabgrass-killers, and other poisons that are being 
spread wantonly on ficlds, forests, roadsides, and lawns. Read her articles 
and then join the campaign to stop our chemical suicide before it's too late. 
KKK KKK KK KK * 
KEK KKK KKK KS 
NEWS FROM AFFILIATED CLUBS 
Mrs. K. V. Fiske, Secretary of the McHenry County Bird Club, reports that the mem- 
bership has increased to 37. This county is rich in wildlife and natural, undis- 
turbed areas. There must be many birders and conservationists who would welcome an 
invitation to join this club, Write to Mrs. Fiske at Cold Spring School, Woodstock. 

The Kankakee Valloy Audubon Society was organized in March. Temporary officers 
were elected to serve until May 19, when a permanent slate will be chosen. The 
officers pro tem are: President - Mrs. Robert J. Sprinkle; Secretary-Treasurer - 
Mrs, Donald Gore; Field Chairman - Mrs. Hazel Lory. The group plans to hold 
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