Bird Day! Have you heard of it? Whether you have or not, we wish to
assure you that it is worthy the thoughtful consideration of all
teachers, and of all others interested in protecting and preserving our
sweet birds.
Bird day has already proved a great success in two cities of the United
States, both in the enthusiasm shown by the children in their friendly
study of birds and in the result of such study.
In 1894, Oil City, Pa., observed the day, and in 1896 it was celebrated
in the schools of Fort Madison, Iowa.
Of the results in his schools, Supt. Babcock, of Oil City, says, "There
has been a complete change in the relations existing between the small
boy and the birds."
Although we in Fort Madison have been engaged in bird study less than a
year, and have observed but one BIRD DAY, results similar to those
secured by Supt. Babcock are becoming manifest. Only a few days ago a
boy said to his teacher, "I used to take pleasure in killing all kinds
of birds. Now I don't wish to harm even an English Sparrow."
The object of BIRD DAY and the study that leads to it, is to diffuse a
true knowledge of the aesthetic and practical value of birds and to
arouse an interest in bird protection.
And it is high time that something be done. From all over the country
come reports of a decrease in native birds. In many places some of our
sweetest songsters and most useful insect destroyers have become very
scarce or have disappeared entirely. The causes are many, but the
greatest is an inexcusable thoughtlessness on the part of young and old
of both sexes. Johnny teases for a gun. His fond parents get it for him.
Result--Johnny shows his marksmanship by shooting several birds in his
vicinity. Or, perhaps, the ladies need new hats. Nothing except birds
for trimming will do, though ten thousand sweet songs be hushed forever.
The study of bird life is one of especial interest to children and if
properly pursued will develop in them sympathetic characters that should
make them kinder towards their playmates now and towards their
fellow-men in the coming years.