Division of Entomology, Circular No. 18

In response to a Memorial presented to Congress by the American Ornithologists' Union, and through the efforts of others interested in the subject, a branch of Economic Ornithology has been established under the Division of Entomology of the Department of Agriculture; and Dr. C. Hart Merriam has been appointed as Ornithological Agent to take charge of this Divisional work.

The scope of the investigation will cover the entire field of the inter-relation of birds and agriculture, particularly from the entomological stand-point. The inquiry will relate primarily to the food-habits of birds, but will include also the collection of data bearing on the migration and geographical distribution of North American species. In this last inquiry the Department hopes to have the co-operation of the American Ornithologists Union, Dr. Merriam being chairman of the Committee on Migrations of said Union. The co-operation of farmers is solicited, and those having knowledge of food-habits which are beneficial or detrimental to agricultural or horticultural interests are requested to communicate the same to Dr. Merriam.

The assistance of persons wiling to aid in the collection of birds stomachs is particularly desired. Information is also wanted concerning the presence and habits of the so-called "English Sparrow" (Passer domesticus) in the Southern States and in the region west of the Mississippi.

Dr. Merriam will have his headquarters at Sing Sing, N.Y. until October 1, 1885, and after that date at this Department, and should be addressed accordingly.

C.V. RILEY,
entomologist.