4 DH A. U DU BION] (Bet Telia 
was predicted that the dove population in late August and early September 
would be from 40% to 60% under that of a year ago. Events during the 
hunting season amply confirmed the biologists’ earlier prediction. . . Every- 
one will agree that if there is any doubt as to how much additional pro- 
tection should be given the dove, the decision should be in favor of the 
dove and not the hunter.” 
After the new Governor of Illinois is inaugurated, it would be wise to 
write to him a second time, asking him to direct his new Conservation 
Director to support actively the bill to close the dove season. The governor 
may then be addressed as follows: Hon. William G. Stratton, Executive 
Mansion, Springfield, Illinois. As soon as a mourning dove bill is brought 
up in the State Assembly, I. A. S. members will be shown a map of the 
legislative districts in Illinois and will be asked to write to their repre- 
sentatives in support of the bill. 
So far, the Illinois Audubon Society, the Conservation Council, and 
the Chicago Ornithological Society have adopted resolutions favoring 
abolition of the hunting season on doves. The Bulletin will continue to 
given news of the progress of this program as new developments arise. 
4835 Wabansia Avenue, Chicago 39, Illinois 
ia ft fl 
Audubon Christmas Census — 1952 
EACH MEMBER OF the Society is urged to participate in the annual Christmas 
Census of birds in his vicinity, to be taken during the week of December 
25, 1952 to January 1, 1953. Get in touch with your local bird club or 
nature society to learn where or when their hike is planned, or if there 
is no organization in your area, make your own arrangements. Some of 
the best observations have been made by lone bird-watchers. 
The Chicago Ornithological Society expects to start its traditional 
Christmas bird walk at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, on Sun- 
day, December 28. The usual meeting place is the Administration Build- 
ing at 9:30 a.m., but it is advisable to call the Field Chairman, Mr. Albert 
Campbell, 345 W. 72nd Street, at ABerdeen 4-9199, to be sure of the exact 
place and time. The walk is held regardless of weather conditions; warm 
clothes and a substantial lunch are recommended equipment. 
Census Reports should be sent early in January to the Bulletin Editor, 
4835 Wabansia Avenue, Chicago 39, Illinois. Copies will be forwarded to 
the National Audubon Society if so requested. Please follow the form used 
in previous Reports; see the March, 1952 issue of the Bulletin for examples. 
The information should include terrain covered, miles by foot or auto, 
weather, time spent in observations, species seen (listed in A. O. U. check- 
list order), and names of persons participating. Reports should be typed 
double space on one side of 84% by 11 paper. Please be sure that your 
group submits its report to the Editor. 
