Page:Bird-lore Vol 08.djvu/313

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State Reports 263 birds as before, or to disturb the nests. It seems that a greater effort should be made to encourage the organization of Audubon Societies in all schools, for when we have taught the children to love the birds we have done much toward accomplishing that for which the Society exists." — Miss JESSIE L. Whitman, Secretary. Missouri. — "I venture to state, without fear of contradiction, that no law has been enacted in this state, within recent years, which has received more favorable comment than the present bird, game and fish law. Its fearless and impartial enforcement has caused a marked increase of wild life. This convincing illustration has created favorable sentiment for bird protection even amongst those who, in former years, looked upon the enforcement of game laws as an infringement upon their rights and habits." — August Reese, Secretary. Nebraska. — ' The Nebraska Audubon Society is still in existence and hopeful, though I regret there is so little to report. Work among the children is most gratifying, and with them has been our chief efforts. Every year their sympathy is deeper, and their interest keener in bird life. There have been fewer cases of cruelty to birds reported this year than in any year in five. You ask if I have observed an increase in public sentiment for the protection of birds. Emphatically, yes. However, I have one painful obser- vation to make: The sad story of the White Heron, no matter how often repeated, seems to affect but little the demand for the aigrette of that unhappy bird."— Miss Joy M. Higgins, Secretary. New Hampshire. — " The work of our branch societies follows princi- pally educational lines. The systematic observation and study of birds is maintained through the season, and discussions are held and papers read at the regular meetings. The field days have proved occasions of great pleasure and profit. Occasionally activities have taken a more aggressive form. Cases of violation of the state bird laws have been followed up, with the aid of the Fish and Game Commission, convictions secured and fines imposed. In past years much of the trouble has been caused by unlicensed taxidermists. To the best of our knowledge and belief, their operations have been finally checked. Many warnings for first offences have been given, and warning posters have been supplied to persons requesting them. " The circulation of our literature and that of the National Association has been continued. It is encouraging to note a marked increase in the demand for the Educational Leaflets. Requests for them have come from women's clubs, where such material is used in the preparation of papers, from teachers, from granges, and from private individuals. "A little circulating library of popular and instructive books on birds