14 THE “A-U D-U'B:O:N: BU Daye 
Our hawk-density on the southbound trip was .108 per 
mile, and averaged .158 on the return trip. These were computed 
from only those birds actually seen as we were driving. The dis- 
tribution seemed spotty at times. There were areas where we saw 
as many as 5 or 6 Red-tailed hawks in a two to three-mile 
stretch. 
While in Arkansas, we searched the cotton and rice country 
south and west of Forrest City. Here we found Red-tailed and 
Marsh hawks to be abundant. Two of the Buteos observed were 
of the sub-species Krider’s Red-tail (see Peterson), having white 
heads and breasts and whitish tails. We also found a roost of 
about 15 Turkey vultures (Cathartes aura). There were large 
flocks of Bronzed grackles, Red-winged blackbirds and Starlings, 
and we observed about 25 Loggerhead Shrikes. 
From our observations, I have concluded that Red-tailed, 
Marsh and Sparrow hawks are fairly abundant. Since these 
species feed primarily on mice, it appears that they may not be 
affected by pesticides to the degree that accipiters and other bird 
hawks have been in recent years. Let us hope, at least, that this is 
the case! 
POSTCARDS 
FOR BIRD LOVERS 
Here is an attractive gift for 
anyone who loves birds. Full-colc 
postcards like this one are 
available from the IAS Bookstore. 
Card shown here is half actual 
size. To place an order, 
write to the Illinois 
Audubon Society, 1017 Burtingto! 
Downers Grove, Ill. 60515. 
The price? You can get 20 mixe 
cards of most of the bird species 
seen around Illinois for only 
$1.30. Order today. 
