Page:Bird-lore Vol 07.djvu/98

80 birds' eggs for sale, as was the custom formerly. On August 3, all the birds, young and old, from the other keys and sand spits in the immediate neighborhood were gathered on Sand Key and were estimated to number about four thousand. They remained until the 7th, when they left about 4 o'clock in the afternoon.

A new warden, Benjamin Peacon, who was recommended to the Committee by Capt. Geo. A. Bicknell, U. S. Navy, Commandant Key West Naval Station, was employed during the breeding season on the Dry Tortugas. The warden resided on Bird Key from May 10 to July 23, and reports that the Terns had an undisturbed season and made a normal increase. It is his opinion, however, that, unless a warden is stationed on Bird Key every year, the colony will be systematically robbed of their eggs, as the sentiment in that locality is decidedly against prevention of egging.

The following interesting and important report by Mrs. Marrs, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Florida Audubon Society, gives a very clear idea of the excellent work that is being done in Florida, and it also contains a most pertinent suggestion regarding the prohibition of Pigeon shooting at traps. This is a cruel and debasing practice, and the Florida Audubon Society will only be doing its duty when it takes up the matter with the legislature and press of the state. "An increasing membership shows a more general interest in the state for bird protection. Membership, including all grades, 750. Leaflets and pamphlets distributed, 10,000. Warning notices sent out for posting, 2,000. Some 800 letters have been written." Original leaflets published during year, 6, making the total number of Florida leaflets 14. A large card has been printed giving a summary of the 'Bird Laws of the State' (arranged by Mr. R. W. Williams, Jr.); 600 have been sent for posting in merchandise stores, express offices, stations, hotels, etc. Sixty-seven teachers are enrolled as members. There are 8 local secretaries, who have in charge for use of schools 30 Massachusetts Audubon charts. Prizes were offered at close of the school year for Bird Chart compositions. Ten prizes and several rewards of merit were given. Of these prizes 4 were books, 5 were subscriptions to, 1 to 'American Birds.' The average age of children 11 years. is also offered gratuituously, on application, to the principal of any Florida college, institute or school. Ten prizes of $2 each were given for articles written on Florida birds at the 'Student Help Fair' held in Jacksonville in May. 'The Palmetto Club' at Daytona, and 'The Rosalind Club' of Orlando, have each paid a 'Sustaining Membership.' The Florida State Federation of Women's Clubs have a sub-committee on the 'Preservation of Birds.' The Sunshine Society of Florida lends us a helping hand. All such organizations are urged to become members, to more widely establish an interest.