Bird Enemies.
Our bird friends have much to contend with in raising their broods, and it is here we can render them valuable assistance.
The cat, the greatest enemy of birds, must be attended to diplomatically.
The shot gun method will not do here or we may find ourselves haled into court upon the complaint of some neighbor.
The best way is to guard the tree trunks with tin as suggested in several ways in Plate19. For tramp cats, having no home or owner, the trap shown in the same plate will be found efficient.
Spikes may be driven in part way about a pole so that the row of heads prevent the cats getting by.
Fig. 11. Children Starting Out to Put Up Houses.
Fig. 11. Children Starting Out to Put Up Houses.
Fig. 11. Children Starting Out to Put Up Houses.
English Sparrows are another sworn enemy of our song birds and they should be exterminated in every way possible.
Traps, air guns and any other means, no matter how diabolical, are all too good for this feathered pest. Their nests should be pulled down and the young destroyed whenever and wherever found. They are persistent and must be continuously harassed.
Squirrels and snakes also steal both the eggs and the young and they should be driven from localities frequented by birds.