46
YARRELL'S BRITISH BIRDS.
Many of our readers may have read the observations on the Sparrow in the second volume of this work, the fourth edition of which is just completed. As the work is in deserved esteem, and the editor, Professor Newton, is a very accurate observer, the following short extract is taken:
'It may freely be admitted that in many instances the damage done to peas and ripening grain is incalculable; but equally incalculable is the service as often performed by the destruction of insect-pests. Not only are the young, during the earlier part of the breeding-season, mainly fed on destructive caterpillars, but the parents, for their own sustenance, then capture, even on the wing, a large number of noxious insects in their perfect stage.'
Most of the readers of this little book will probably think that Mr. Gurney and Colonel Russell have well reckoned up the 'incalculable service' rendered by sparrows in the destruction of injurious insects. Perhaps Professor Newton himself might admit that Mr. Gurney and Colonel Russell have bestowed more time and labour in the investigation of the habits of this particular bird than Professor Newton has found possible.
In a note on page 96 of Yarrell, Professor Newton refers to the introduction of the sparrow in North America, New Zealand, Australia, etc., and adds, 'in most of these places it will of course oust some of the indigenous species, and will most probably in a few years
