Page:The Zoologist, 4th series, vol 1 (1897).djvu/310

282 shrubbery, and buildings," and the main object of the publication is to give "some information from actual experience on this subject, which I trust may induce others to do something for the preservation of our fast-diminishing wild birds."

Parts I. and II. are devoted to a résumé of the governmental edicts passed in this country for wild bird protection, and to the mediæval bird laws directed to the same purpose.

Part III. deals with the more important consideration of "Bird Nesting Boxes," in which the author not only details his own successful contrivances, but gives examples of similar measures pursued for the same purpose by other well-known naturalists and admirers of our native avian fauna. One observation is to be noted: "Many of our bird lovers seem to consider that success in attracting birds to nesting-boxes depends to a great extent on the aspect in which the boxes are placed, and probably a south or south-east aspect is the best, as the birds then get more sun; on the other hand, I have frequently found Flycatchers building against walls having a westerly and even northerly aspect, and Tits and Redstarts nesting in holes directly facing the north; so that it seems really to be of little moment in what direction a nesting-box or hole faces, if the bird finds the spot sufficiently quiet to carry on its nesting and family duties, and sufficiently sheltered from rain."

But with all care and contrivance three enemies must be reckoned with during the nesting season, viz. the small boy, the cat, and the House Sparrow. The evil propensities of the last-named bird as experienced by the author are clearly stated.

"No doubt remains that he is a determined destroyer of the eggs of other small birds, and to the House Martin he is an inveterate plague, taking possession of its nest, and appropriating it to his own use."

The volume concludes with an enumeration of "Orders applying to Counties, &c, under Wild Birds' Protection Acts."

The illustrations, the result of photography, give a peculiar charm to a remarkably interesting and useful little book.