THE AUDUBON BULLETIN 15 

Photograph by Howard T. Middleton 
WELL Brep BLueEBirD BaBIES 
Bird Manners 
O YOU ask what is the test for manners? My answer is food. 
1D You have only to recall the actions of human beings under 
stress of hunger in support of this. It is the same, I believe, 
with all creatures in all time. 
Given feeding tables well placed, and time to observe the birds and 
your deductions will no doubt parallel mine. The only trait resembling 
unselfishness ever displayed is by mothers for their young. The only 
gallantry I have seen is by the Cardinal for his mate during their court- 
ing period when he feeds her as solicitously as if she were a helpless baby. 
Outside of this, the first law of life, which is self-preservation, rules 
with birds and all other wild creatures. Other birds will be driven from 
food first and even their own kind will be tolerated only if they are not 
too hungry. The Sparrows, being gregarious, will eat in flocks but keep 
a close watch on any invasion of personal rights. Blackbirds eat as 
families but object to many relations. 
The most selfish, intolerant, and greedy of all birds is the Red-headed 
Woodpecker, who will eat so much that he looks like a pouter pigeon. 
When he can no longer stow away another crumb, he will act as police- 
man to keep other birds away. He also occupies his policing moments 
carrying food to the tree he frequents, tucking grains in holes and the 
bark for future consideration. He is utterly unlovable in every way, 
having a harsh and raucous voice to match his manners. 
The only bird that surpasses the Red-head in evil ways is the bellig- 
erent squawking Blue Jay, feared by all birds under the size of the Crow, 
