[1] Among the interesting birds of this part of the world, there are a number which, though not often seen in our State, are yet occasional visitors, or else resident here in very small numbers. The noble wild turkey, for instance, is still found in small parties in the wilds of Sullivan, Orange, and Rockland counties, and also farther westward, in Alleghany and Cattaraugus; formerly it was known in large flocks from Mexico to Canada.
The fine, peculiar, Pinnated Grouse, though rapidly disappearing, is still seen in very small parties in Orange county.
The Mocking-bird is found on Long Island and in Rockland county. This bird, indeed, is said to range from 25° south of the equator, to 44 north. They are rare in our State, however, though a few arrive in the lower counties toward the last of May.
The brilliant Cardinal Grosbeak, with his scarlet coat, breeds in our State, and is said to be found in a county adjoining our own.
- ↑ We are none of us very knowing about the birds in this country, unless it be
those scientific gentlemen who have devoted their attention especially to such
subjects. The same remark applies in some measure to our native trees and
plants; to our butterflies and insects. But little attention has yet been given by
our people generally, to these subjects. In Europe such is not the case; many
persons there, among the different classes of society, are familiar with these simple
matters. Had works of this kind been as common in America as they are in
England, the volume now in the reader's hands would not have been printed, and
many observations found in its pages would have been unnecessary. But
such as it is, written by a learner only, the book is offered to those whose interest
in rural subjects has been awakened, a sort of rustic primer, which may lead
them, if they choose, to something higher.
If it will not be considered an assumption of importance, in a volume of the chit-chat, common-place character of that now before the reader, the writer will venture to express her thanks to Dr. De Kay and Mr. Downing, not only for their published works, but also for their kindness in directing her course on several occasions.
