AUTHOR'S EDITION. 
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR. 
UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL SURVEY. 
F. V. HAYDEN, U. S. Geologist-in-Charge. 
ON THE PRESENT STATUS OF 
PASSER DOMESTICUS 
IN 
AXIE111CA. 
WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE WESTERN STATES 
AND TERRITORIES. 
BY 
Dr. ELLIOTT CODES, U. S. A. 
EXTRACTED FROM THE BULLETIN OF THE SURVEY, Vol. V, No. 2 
Washington, September 6, 1879. Art. XI.-On the Present Status of Passer doniesticus 
in America, with Special Reference to the Western 
States and Territories. 
By Dr. Elliott Cones, IT. S. A. 
Now that the enormous increase and rapid dispersion of the Euro- 
pean House Sparrow in America have resulted in the appearance of 
this objectionable bird in various portions of the Western States and 
Territories, it is time to consider what means may be taken to check 
its westward extension; for the agriculturists of that portion of our 
country have already enough to do to contend with the grasshopper 
scourge without having to guard their crops against a plague only less 
formidable and imminent. Should the noxious birds become as numer- 
ous and as widely diffused in the West as they are already in the 
thickly-settled portions of the United States, they would there prove even 
more destructive to the crops than they are known to be in the East. 
For here they still live for the most part in cities, towns, and villages, 
where they derive their subsistence chiefly from street-garbage, espe- 
cially horse-manure; but in the West, where such supplies are more 
limited, these granivorous birds would at once and continually prey 
upon the crops. I am not informed to what extent they may have mul- 
tiplied already in some of the places, as at Salt Lake City, to which they 
have been transported, and where they have obtained a foothold; but 
it may not be too late, if vigorous measures are taken at once, to stamp 
out the plague. The strongholds of the birds are few, comparatively 
speaking, and isolated to such a degree that the eradication of the 
birds from that part of the United States may not be now absolutely 
impracticable, as unfortunately seems to be the case in the East. The 
Great Plains offer a natural barrier to the westward progress of the 
birds from the Mississippi; and if pains be taken to destroy the advance 
guard as fast as they move westward, the evils now suffered in the East 
may be long delayed or even avoided. In most parts of the West 
where the Sparrows have appeared, it is believed that they have been 
imported, not that they reached these spots by spontaneous migration 
or natural dispersion. If this be the case, indeed, it may not be a 
matter ot the greatest difficulty to destroy them, root and branch, in 
tlie comparatively few places in which they have already become natu- 
ralized. Should this be done, and laws be passed prohibiting the intro- 
duction of the birds into the M estern States and Territories, immunity 
from invasion might be secured for a practically unlimited period. To 
175 176 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[VoZ. V. 
bring this matter to the attention of the people in the West, and to 
urge that such measures be taken without further dangerous delay, is 
the object of the present paper. 
This may seem an extreme course, to the few who still look favorably 
upon the presence of the Sparrow in America; but such may be assured 
that it is no more thau the exigencies of the case demand. Unless the 
Sparrows can be made to devour grasshoppers, there is absolutely no 
occasion for their naturalization in the West, not even the flimsy excuse 
for them that we sometimes hear made in the East. That they will not 
subsist upon grasshoppers to any extent, or upon potato-beetles, may be 
regarded as a foregone conclusion; and in the absence of other sources 
of food-supply, they will infallibly fall upon the crops. 
Though it must appear to all well-informed persons a work of super- 
erogation to point out what mischief the Sparrows have done, what 
worse evils are in prospect, and what thoroughly undesirable birds these 
are from every standpoint, yet the people of the West may not be fully 
apprised as yet of the actual state of the case. Their attention is there- 
fore called to the present status of the Sparrow in America, as fully 
exhibited in the following review of the situation. 
For it occurs to me that the facts in the case can in no way be more 
forcibly presented or more clearly illustrated than by the simple and 
lucid method of setting forth, in sufficient detail, the controversy which 
the introduction of the Sparrow into America has occasioned, and 
analyzing the mass of evidence we have accumulated. To such a 
record, moreover, attaches a degree of historical interest. Instead of 
expressing my own views, or of preparing statements which might be 
open to an even unfounded charge of prejudice, I have therefore thrown 
what I have to say into the form of a commentary on the record itself, 
leaving each one to form his own opinion on the subject. 
The following record forms a portion of a more elaborate article which 
I have in preparation upon the general subject. Though very incom- 
plete,-in fact, representing but a fragment of the literature which the 
Sparrow Question has occasioned,-it is sufficient for present purposes. 
It is compiled from al] available sources, without partiality or prejudice, 
and the commentary is written without fear, favor, or affection. It in- 
cludes every article which I have seen, and a few others, the titles of 
which I have taken from Mr. T. G. Gentry's book. For some, I am 
indebted to the kindness of Prof. C. V. Riley. Articles in favor of, as 
well as those unfavorable to, the Sparrow, have been collated with 
equal care; but those of the former character are so few and weak in 
comparison with those of the latter category, that if the contributions 
to the subject made by the eminent ornithologist, Dr. Thomas M. Brewer, 
be excepted, little remains on that side of the question. Additional 
titles of articles bearing upon the off side of the controversy are there- 
fore the special desiderata of this piece of bibliography; but any addi- 
tions to the list or corrections of errors which may be detected will be 
very acceptable to the compiler. No. 2. ] 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
177 
1867. Pickering, C. [On the Introduction of the European House Sparrow into 
America, as threatening a Great Evil. ] < Proc. Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist. xi. 
1867, pp. 157, 158. 
It appears from the record herewith presented that the credit of being the first in this 
country to foresee and predict the evil to result from the introduction of Sparrows into Ame- 
rica belongs to Dr. Charles Pickering. This article may be regarded as the entering-wedge; 
and as such it is entitled to special consideration. It was not, however, until 1874, that the 
controversy was fairly opened, though in the mean time several American writers ventured to 
express their apprehensions, and to give warnings which passed unheeded. Of., e. g., Bkuce, 
Amer. Nat. vi. 1872, pp. 469,470; Coues, Key N. A. Birds, 1872, p. 146. 
1868. Brewer, T. M. The European House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. 
Monthly, May, 1868, pp. . 
Not seen. 
1868. Sweetapple, E. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in America. <( Zool- 
ogist, 2d ser. iii. 1868, pp. 1375,1376. 
1869. Forney, J. W. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Weekly Press (Phila- 
delphia), -, 1869. 
Not seen-incomplete title cited from Gentry. 
1869. Forney, J. W. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <The Press (Philadelphia), 
-, 1869. 
Not seen-incomplete title cited from Gentry. 
1869. Lesguillon, J. La Proscription des Moineaux [Passer domesticus]. 
raliste Canadien, i. 1869, pp. 58-64, 99-101. 
Poeme. 
1869. One Thousand Sparrows [Passer domesticus] Shipped. < The London 
Times, -, 1869. 
Not seen-incomplete title cited from Gentry. 
1869. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] in America. London Times, -, 
1869. 
Not seen-incomplete title cited from Gentry. 
1869. Take Care of the Birds [Passer domesticus]. Ledger and Daily 
Transcript (Philadelphia), -, 1869. 
Not seen-incomplete title cited from Gentry. 
1870. Collete, J. R. House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Amer. Nat. iv. No. 1, 
Mar. 1870, pp. 54,55. 
The naturalization of the species is considered in a Fair way of accomplishment, and to call 
for some notice and congratulation. 
1870. Glick, G. W. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Farmer, 
Mar. -, 1870. 
Queries whether the birds would destroy curculios. Editor's reply, that there is no evi- 
dence to favor such a supposition. 
1870. V[oelkel], P. Moineaux [Passer domesticus] au Canada. Soc. Acclim. 
2e sdr. vii. 1870, pp. 322, 323. 
From the London Field, Dec. 25,1869. 
1870-71. Thorpe, T. B. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <( Appleton's 
Journ. iv. Oct. 1870, p. 494; vi. Oct. 1871, p. 467. 
1871. S[oubeiran], J. L. Acclimatation des Moineaux [Passer domesticus] aux 
Ftats-Unis. <( Bull. Soc. Acclim. 2e sdr. viii. 1871, p. 582. 
From Report of the Commissioner of Agriculture for 1869, p. 300. 
1871. Nos Moineaux. < Naturaliste Canadien, iii. 1871, p. 51. 
Sur 1'acclimatation du Passer domesticus h Quebec. 
1872. J. P. The English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Country Gentleman, Aug. 1, 
1872. 
That they are not efficient destroyers of insects, but that they do drive away native birds. 178 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[ToZ. V. 
1872. Scott, Jas. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Magazine, 
Feb. 1872. 
"The English Sparrows get much credit for the extermination of the Span Worm in New 
York and Philadelphia. Is there proof that they had anything to do with the matter ? . . . 
The Span Worms have their periods, and come and go without thanks to the Spanow." 
1873. Lewis, E., jr. [The Naturalization of] The English Sparrow [Passer domes- 
ticus, iu America]. <[ Popular Science Monthly, Feb. 1873, pp. 508, 509. 
1873? Trimble, I. P. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. name 
and date unknown. 
Substance of an address before the American Institute Farmers Club, entirely unfavorable 
to the birds. " The judgment of the Club was that the Sparrows had better be exterminated." 
1874. Anon. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] at New Brunswick, N. J. 
Sportsm. v. Nov. 21, 1874, p. 119. 
1874. Anon. Le Moineau domestique [Passer domesticus]. < Naturalists Canadien, 
vi. 1874, pp. 286, 287. 
1874. Anon. Les Moineaux Europ6ens [Passer domesticus]. < Naturalists Canadien, 
vi. 1874, pp. 319, 320. 
1874. Anon. Indictment of the English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. 
Science Monthly, v. 1874, p. 763. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1874. Brewer, T. M. The European House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. 
Nat. viii. No. 9, Sept. 1874, pp. 556, 557. 
The opening of the controversy on the part of Dr. Brewer. "I regret very much that a 
naturalist generally so well informed as Dr. Coues, should aid in giving what my own observa- 
tions compel mo to believe to be an altogether wrong statement in regard to the house sparrow, 
published in the July number of the Naturalist. ... I submit that this is too impor- 
tant a question to be thus dismissed, especially by a gentleman like Dr. Coues, who has enjoyed 
no opportunity of knowing from his own observations whether the opinions he is so free to 
express are well founded or not. The statement of Mr. Gentry I entirely discredit." Dr. 
Brewer's own observations and opinions follow. 
1874. Brewer, T. M. The European House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <Amer. 
Sportsm. Oct. 24, 1874, p. 49. 
Of same tenor as his article in The American Naturalist, viii. No. 9, Sept. 1874, pp. 556, 557. 
1874. Brewer, T. M. Work of English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in Boston. 
Sportsm. iv. 1874, p. 179. 
Assertion of their good offices in destroying repulsive insects. 
1874. Coues, E. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Amer. Nat. viii. No. 7, 
July, 1874, p. 436. 
Having expressed, in the Key to North American Birds, p 146, (1872), apprehensions that 
the Sparrows would soon begin to interfere with the native species, Dr. Coues prints a state- 
ment from Mr. T. G. Gentry verifying the anticipation. Says Mr. Gentry, referring to Spar- 
rows in Germantown, Pa.: "They increase so rapidly and are so pugnacious, that our smaller 
native birds are compelled to seek quarters elsewhere." Dr. Coues continues: "I did not 
expect the bad news quite so soon. Probably it will not be long before we hear the same com- 
plaints from other places. . . . There is no occasion for them [the Sparrows] in this country: 
the good they do in destroying certain insects has been overrated. I foresee the time when it 
will be deemed advisable to take measures to get rid of the birds, or at least to check their 
increase." 
1874. Coues, E. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] War. Sportsm. v. Nov. 
21, 1874, p. 113. 
"Several articles which have lately appeared in The American Naturalist and American 
Sportsman, from my pen and others, indicate that a pretty lively contest is likely to result. 
Much as I dislike controversy, ... I am just as willing to stand corrected as to prove any- 
. body else wrong. The personal aspect of the question is a matter of the utmost indifference 
to me. ... It is a more important question than it looks at first sight, and it is daily grow- 
ing more so. Now let us accumulate evidence." No. 2.1 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
179 
1874. Gentry, T. G. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus], Nat. viii. No. 
11, Nov. 1874, pp. 667-672. 
Attesting the molestation of various native American birds by the Sparrows, in amplifica- 
tion of his previous testimony to the same effect (tom. cit. p. 436); and denouncing as ground- 
less the charges of misrepresentation brought against E. Coues and himself by T. M. Brewer 
(tom. cit. p. 556). The article is notable among those opening the controversy. 
1874. Gentry, T. G. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <Amer. Sportsm. v. 
Nov. 14, 1874, p. 98. 
From the American Naturalist, viii. No. 11, Nov. 1874, pp, 667-672. 
1874. Gould, Samuel. English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <C Amer. Nat. viii. 
No. 11, Nov. 1874, pp. 692, 693. 
Statement of the quantity of kitchen vegetables he was able to raise by using netting to 
prevent the Sparrows from doing serious damage. 
1874. Gould, Samuel. [English Sparrow. Passer domesticus.] < Amer. Sportsm. v. 
Nov. 21, 1874, p. 113. 
From the American Naturalist, viii. 1874, pp. 692, 693. 
1874. Gregory, J. H. Are European Sparrows [Passer domesticus] to be a Pest? 
< Moore's Hural New Yorker, Oct. 10, 1874. 
Affirmative: . . . "that to reduce the number of caterpillars on a few thousand shade 
trees in deference to the weak nerves of over-nice individuals, we had opened a perfect Pan- 
dora's box, and let fly through the land destruction to the grain crops of the country to the 
value of millions annually." 
1874. Lamberton, A. B. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Controversy. <Amer. 
Sportsm. v. Dec. 26, 1874, p. 200. 
"I am fearful lest they do much towards driving away from our cities our best and sweetest 
song birds. ... It is high time for us to declare war against the foreign intruders." 
1874. "Ollapod Quill." The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Forest and 
Stream, iii. Nov. 12, 1874, p. 212. 
Discountenancing its propagation in the United States. 
1874. Ridgway, R. A Contribution to the " Sparrow [Passer domesticus] War." 
<Amer. Sportsm. v. Dec. 12,1874, p. 161. 
Pugnacity of the species, which is stated to have driven away the Song Sparrows from the 
Smithsonian Grounds in Washington. Witness of the attack of Sparrows upon a Snowbird. 
1874. Sweetapple, E. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in Philadelphia. 
<[ Zoologist, 2d ser. ix. 1874, p. 4197. 
1874. Wade, J. M. Pet Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Journal and Poul- 
try Exchange, i. 1874, p. 118. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1874. Wade, J. M. War on the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Fancier's Journal 
and Poultry Exchange, i. 1874, p. 426. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1874. Willard, S. L. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and American Birds. 
Moore's Rural New Yorker, Apr. 25, 1874. 
Statement that the birds are not as beneficial as they had been supposed to be, and their 
injurious reaction on native species. 
1874. Wilson, E. R. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] rule the roost. < Amer. Sportsm. 
v. Nov. 7,1874, p. 91. 
Disappearance of Swallows and other birds with the advent of Sparrows at Syracuse, N. Y. 
1875. Anon. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and Fruit-Growers. Agric. 
Feb. 1875. 
" That they destroy insects there is no doubt, but their work is not entirely beneficent; and 
melancholy accounts have been told of loss to the farmers by the havoc Sparrows make in 
their grain." « 
1875. Anon. Sparrows [Passer domesticus], Moles and Toads. < American Garden, 
Feb. 1875. 
"The charge of driving away our native birds is an inexcusable libel upon them." 180 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[Tol. V. 
1875. Anon. Concerning English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Oologist (Utica, 
X. Y.), i. 1875, p. 6. 
Apparently extracted from Moore's Rural New Yorker, April 25, 1874. 
1875. Anon. Those Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Hod and Gun, vi. June 5,1875, 
p. 155. 
Quoted from Cleveland (Ohio) Herald: aggressions of Sparrows against Orioles. 
1875. Batty, J. H. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] on L.fong] Island. < For- 
est and Stream, iv. Mar. 25,1875, p. 101. 
Increase of the birds in that region, and their pugnacity. 
1875. Bendire, C. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <Amer. Sportsm. v. Jan. 9, 
1875, p. 227. 
Results of two years' observations of Sparrows at St. Louis, Mo. No molestation of native 
birds observed. "I must say, however, that in myopinion the usefulness of the English 
Sparrows as insect-destroying birds is greatly over-rated, and that we have many native spe- 
cies who destroy more noxious insects in a single day than a Sparrow will in a week." 
1875. Brewer, T. M. The European House-Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <Amer. 
Sportsm. v. Feb. 6,1875, p. 298. 
From the Atlantic Monthly for May, 1868, on the habits of the birds in America. 
1875. Brewer, T. M. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Sportsm. v. Feb. 27, 
1875, p. 341. 
Sustaining its character as a useful bird in Europe. M. Florent Prevost's results are cited 
here, as at frequent intervals throughout the controversy. 
1875. Brewer, T. M. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. and Gun, vi. June 12, 
1875, p. 171. 
Defending the birds from charges brought against them by R. Deane, tom. cit. May 29,1875. 
1875. Brewer, T. M. [By error, Codes, E.] More Sparrows. Hod and Gun, vi. July 
10,1875, p. 232. 
1875. Codes, E. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Amer. Sportsm. v. Jan. 23, 
1875, p. 264. 
Presenting two letters in evidence: 1. From C. H. L[add], attesting that the Sparrows had 
driven birds away from Elizabeth, N. J. 2. From W. J. Hoffman, to same effect in case of 
Reading, Pa. 
1875. Codes, E. Sparrows-more evidence. < Hod and Gun, vi. July 17,1875, p. 249. 
Covering letter from W. J. H[offman] concerning spoliation of nests of native birds by the 
Sparrows. 
1875. Deane, R. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Bod and Gun, May 29,1875, p. 129. 
The quarrelling of the Sparrows with Chipbirds, Bluebirds, &c. 
1875. Hampton, C. J. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and the Canker Worms. 
<[ Moore's Hural New Yorker, Jan. 23, 1875. 
" English Sparrows have had no agency in the disappearance of the worms " in Seneca 
County, N. Y. Editor continues: "At the very time of their introduction into New York City 
and Brooklyn, a small ichneumon fly had already lessened very materially the number of span- 
worms, which were so disagreeably abundant in these cities, and it is very probable that the 
insects would have disappeared without the aid of the birds." 
1875. H[ayes ?], J. L. More about the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. 
Sportsm. v. Jan. 9, 1875, p. 228. 
1875. K[eene],S. W. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. and Gun, vi. Apr. 3, 
1875, p. 11. 
Charge of molesting Song Sparrows. 
1875. "Mortimer." The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Amer. Sportsm. v. Jan. 9, 
1875, p. 227. 
* Witnessing the fact that the Sparrows drive away native birds. 
1875. R. W. H., and Editor. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and Fruit Culture. 
< Gardener's Mag. June, 1875. 
Presenting both sides of the question. No. 2. | 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
181 
1875. S. O. T. [i. e. Keene, S. W. ] Caution to Coues. < Amer. Sportsm. liar.-?, 1875. 
Lest the Sparrows combine to attack him. Henry Ward Beecher later produced a squib of 
the same kind. 
1875. Sterling, E. [Sparrows. Passer domesticus.] < Amer. Sportsm. Jan. 23, 1875. 
"They are a most pestiferous bird, driving all our native birds away, aud at the same time, 
destroying no insect life that preys upon our roadside trees." 
1875. Sterling, E. Those Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Rod and Gun, vi July 
31, 1875, p. 266. 
Repeated spoliation of nests of Robins and Orioles by the Sparrows. 
1875. W. B. C. Sparrows [Passer domesticus], <RodandGun, vi. June 19,1875, p. 187. 
Ejectment of different birds from their homes by the Sparrows. 
1875. Wade, J. M. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Journal 
and Poultry Exchange, ii. 1875, p. 638. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1875. Wade, J. M. Story of a Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <( Fancier's Journal and 
Poultry Exchange, ii. 1875, p. 334. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1876. Anon. [English Sparrows, Passer domesticus, eating crocuses.] and 
Gun, viii. Apr. 29, 1876, p. 71. 
1876. "Bob." [Roberts, T. S.] English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in [Minne- 
apolis,] Minnesota. <[ Forest and Stream, vii. Dec. 7, 1876, p. 277. 
1876. "Dog. Whip." My English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <Rodand Gttn, vii. 
Feb. 26, 1876, p. 341. 
1876. J. C. K. [History of a tame English Sparrow.] Forest and Stream, vi. Mar. 
2, 1876, p. 52. 
1876. "Major." The Sparrow [Passer domesticus]-A Farmer's Complaint. 
<( Moore's Rural New Yorker, May 6, 1876. 
Attesting the destruction of measuring-worms by the Sparrows, and the greater destruc- 
tion of grain. "The city people knew when they imported the greedy, fighting songless 
sparrow, that they were introducing one pest to exterminate another." 
1876. Muench, F. The European House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Rural World, 
Apr. 19, 1876; reprinted N. Y. Weekly Sun, May 24, 1876. 
"Nothing eatable, if possibly accessible, is secure from his attack-garden products, as 
well as all kinds of fruit, cherries and grapes in particular; wheat fields . . . what barns, 
stables aud houses contain, if not carefully guarded-will become his prey." 
1876. Van Fleet, W. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Watsontown 
Record (Watsontown, Northumberland Co., Pa.), Mar. 10, 1876. 
In answer to a pseudonymous article in same paper of February 11, 1876, being an ex- 
tended presentation of the pernicious results of introducing the bird into America, much 
irrefragable evidence being adduced. "I think the above terrible array of evidence will con- 
vince any one, not absolutely wooden-headed that at no distant day this apparently trivial 
question will become one of National importance; and that if some means is not promptly 
taken to check the unparalelled [sic] increase of this destructive bird, they will become a pest 
only equalled by the grasshoppers of the West." The article includes a long letter from Mr. 
R. Ridgway, to the same effect. Says this ornithologist: "In answer to your inquiry whether 
I regard the introduction of the European House sparrow into the country as likely to prove 
a benefit, my answer is, most emphatically, that I deeply regret the mistaken policy that 
caused the importation of this extremely undesirable bird." 
1877. Anon. About the English Sparrow. < Popular Science Monthly, No. 64, 1877, 
p. 506. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1877. Anon. About Sparrows. <Scientific American, xxxvii. n. s. 1877. 
Not seen-title from Gentry. 
1877. Anon. [Brewer, T. M. ?] Another Ornithological Experiment. < Boston 
paper, name unknown, about June, 1877. 
The anonymous writer, d propos of the introduction of the European Starling into America, 
takes occasion to enlarge upon the services of the House Sparrow, and to compare the use- 
fulness of the two birds in favor of the latter. [VoZ. V. 
182 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
1877. Anon. [Brewer, T. M.] The Sparrow Question [Passer domesticus]. <The 
American Cultivator (Boston, Mass.), June 23, 1877. 
An ambushed attack upon T. G. Gentry, in which the latter is satirized, ridiculed, and 
abused for his remarks upon the subject in his "Life-Histories of the Birds of Pennsylvania." 
Anonymus charges Mr. Gentry with deliberately "concocting, publishing and corrupting 
the public mind by conclusions and statements " which, &c. There is a spice of Attic salt in 
such writing, which makes it very palatable, and tends to cement friendship and shorten 
controversy. No argument is made in this case, the article being a lampoon, chiefly directed 
against Mr. Gentry's alleged literary infelicities. 
1877. Anon. [Brewer, T. M.] Ornithological Papacy. < Boston Journal, June 5, 
1877. 
This is one of Dr. Brewer's most amusing tirades. He takes as his text that same para- 
graph of Coues and Prentiss's which gave him such offence, and discourses upon the subject 
at length. The burden of the grievance this time is the remarks of those gentlemen respect- 
ing the action Boston took in the matter of the Shrikes. Mr. Galvin reappears, as usual. The 
author " ventures to suggest " to them, that "Boston knows already what are alike her duties 
and her interests, as regards the sparrow." Lest the applicability of the title of this paper 
to the subject be missed, it should be explained that the writer charges Drs. Coues and 
Prentiss with an "assumption ... of infallible wisdom and knowledge on the subject, 
quite papal in tone." 
1877. Anon. [Commagere, F. Y.] [Au editorial iu favor of Passer domesticus iu 
America.] The Gazette (Washington, D. C.), May 27, 1877. 
Quoting Drs. Coues and Prentiss's recent article in Field and Forest, and reflecting upon it 
with mock severity. 
1877. Anon. Sparrows' [Passer domesticus] Power of Reasoning. < Chicago Field, 
Oct. 20, 1877. 
From the Hartford Times, date unknown. "A curious story, illustrative of the intelligence 
and reasoning power, and perhaps of the characteristic rascality also, of" the bird. A female 
stole a feather from another's nest, and hid it till she could get a chance to deposit it in her 
own nest unobserved. 
1877. Anon. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. York Herald, Aug. 11, 1877. 
"We believe Dr. Coues is right. . . . He points out, what is known to be true by every 
observing fanner near New York, that the sparrows are gradually driving away all the native 
birds." 
1877. Brewer, T. M. Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <The Gazette (Washiugtou), 
vol. xvii. No. 26, June 3, 1877. 
I have lost or mislaid the clip, and cannot give the substance of this article. It contained, 
however, something about a lie well stuck to being as good as the truth, with reference to 
some writings of E. Coues on the Sparrow question. The writer subsequently apologized. 
Cf. 1877, Brewer, T. M., and 1877, Coues, E. 
1877. Brewer, T.'M. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] again.-Another letter from 
the Distinguished Ornithologist, Dr. Brewer. <( The Gazette (Washington, D. 
C.), July 1, 1877. 
Personal and apologetic, courteously disclaiming as unintentional that reflection which he 
had been understood to cast, in a previous letter in the same paper, upon E. Coues's sincerity 
and veracity. 
1877. Brewer, T. M. Justice to the Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Boston Daily 
Advertiser, Dec. -, 1877. 
Denying the statements of fact made by H. A. P[urdie] in same paper of July 30, 1877, 
respecting Orgyia leucostigma. Mr. J. Galvin, the city forester, is produced as a witness. 
The upshot of a long narrative of his personal observations in Boston is: "It is not only my 
belief, but my knowledge, that the sparrow does eagerly and thoroughly destroy this trouble- 
some insect." 
1877. B[rewer], T. M. The House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Daily 
Advertiser, Dec. 8, 1877. 
Covering a letter from Dr. II. Hagen, defending the Sparrows, and one from S. Cabot, M. D., 
defending T. M. Brewer. No material point made in either case. No. 2. ] 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
183 
1877. B[rewer], T. M. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] once more. < Boston Daily 
Advertiser, Dec. 10, 1877. 
Covering a letter from Amos Binney to T. M. Brewer, testifying that the latter is "wholly 
right in the matter." Followed by a letter from "Z.", which, if accurate, would make Dr. 
Brewer wholly wrong in the matter. 
1877. Coues, E. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] once more.-Dr. Coues replies to 
Dr. Brewer. < The Gazette (Washington, D. C.), July 8, 1877. 
The retort courteous, accepting Dr. Brewer's disclaimer of intentional offensiveness, and 
restating his own positions. "I must not be understood to reflect in the slightest upon his 
veracity. I only arraign his inability to understand . . . the case," &c. 
1877. Coues, E. Letters on Ornithology. . . . No. 16-The English Sparrow [Passer 
domesticus]. <C The Chicago Field, July 21, 1877. 
"In this communication to my friends and the public, I wish to call serious attention to 
a subject of growing importance, the issue of which requires to be met squarely and fairly. 
I refer to the extraordinary multiplication of English Sparrows in this country, and to the 
consequences, immediate and remote, of their presence in such numbers." The article is a. 
full statement of the case from the writer's standpoint. With the exception of the "Ineligi- 
bility" article in The American Naturalist for 1878, it is the most extended and complete 
article which the controversy has drawn from this pen. 
1877. Coues, E., and Prentiss, D. W. [Note on Passer domesticus iu Washington, 
D. C.] < Field and Forest, ii. No. 11, May, 1877, pp. 192, 193. 
Though not a special paper, being merely one of some "Remarks on Birds of the District 
of Columbia," this note is here inserted in consequence of the unexpected commotion it 
occasioned and the stimulus it imparted to the controversy. The passages reappeared and 
were reprinted again in numberless places with an unaccountable degree of vitality. They 
are here reproduced, as something of a curiosity, considering to what career they were 
destined. 
" Passer domesticus, the nuisance, was introduced [in the District of Columbia] some years 
after our list [of the Birds of the District] appeared, and now these rowdy little gamins squeak 
and fight all through the city, to our great disgust. The introduction of these exotics 
clutters up ornithology in a way that a student of geographical distribution may deplore, and 
interferes decidedly with the 'balance of power' among the native species. Whatever may 
be said to the contrary notwithstanding, these Sparrows do molest, harass, drive off, and 
otherwise maltreat and forcibly eject and attempt to destroy various kinds of native birds, 
which are thereby deprived of certain inalienable rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of 
happiness after their own fashion. 
"We understand that in Boston, where the Sparrows are extremely numerous, the Butcher- 
birds (Collurio borealis) lately appeared in force, and feasted upon the birds, until the legis- 
lators, or whoever had authority in the matter, ordered them to be systematically destroyed, 
thus thwarting, with characteristic human short-sightedness, the first efforts Nature made 
to readjust the disturbed balance of her forces." 
1877. "Dom Pedro." Another Opinion of the Sparrows [Passer domesticus], 
est and Stream, viii. July 5, 1877, p. 360. 
Favorable to the birds. 
1877. Editorial. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus].-Is he a Blessing or a 
Nuisance? <[ Forest and Stream, viii. May 31, 1877, p. 261. 
Reproduced from the Boston Transcript, with brief •editorial comment. It consists of a 
letter from T. M. Brewer to J. Galvin, city forester of Boston, Mass., asking if he did not think 
so and so; and the reply of the latter, that he did think thus and thus; this being intended 
to settle the question. The article continues with a pseudonymous letter from "Arrow," 
testifying to the Sparrows' "idleness and general incapacity." 
1877. Editorial. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus] again. < Forest and Stream, 
viii. July 12, 1877, pp. 379, 380. 
An editorial make-up of extracts from various published articles for and against the birds. 
One correspondent says: ' ' Having dissected some thirty or forty birds in all, no sign of worms 
or injurious insects was found." Another calls the birds "infernal little frauds." "Dr. 
Brewer believes the sparrows to have been of incalculable benefit." 
1877. Elliott, C. W. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Boston Daily Advertiser, 
Dec. 11, 1877. 
Statement of evidence from the manager of Central Bark, N. Y., that the Sparrow banishes 
the measuring-worm, and does not drive away other birds. 184 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[VoLV. 
1877. Gentry, T. G. The Sparrow Question [Passer domesticus]. American 
Cultivator (Boston, Mass.), Oct. 27, 1877. 
A reply to T. M. Brewer, op. cit. June 23, 1877, which article compares in no favorable 
light with the less witty but more weighty statements of the person who had been ridiculed 
for his opinions, and abused for his observations of fact. Mr. Gentry shows the discrepancies 
between Dr. Brewer's alleged facts and the facts themselves, as attested by Messrs. It. Deane 
and H. A. Purdie. lie writes like a man laboring under a sense of wrong done him, and a 
conviction of the soundness of his position. 
1877. Loomis, E. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Mirror and Farmer, 
July 21, 1877. 
Views of "an English agriculturist, now travelling in this country," favorable to the 
Sparrow. 
1877. "O." The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] vs. the Caterpillar. < Boston Daily 
Advertiser, July 31, 1877. 
Endorsing Mr. Purdie's testimony, denying that the birds have anything to do with the 
decrease of the insects. 
1877. P[urdie], H. A. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] in Boston. < Boston Daily 
Advertiser, July .30, 1877. 
A clear refutation of the assertions of T. M. Brewer and others, that the Sparrow had been 
effective in destroying the Orgyia leucostigma, the trees being devastated by these insects, and 
the city forester having men at work still. "All over the boles of the elms, maples, lindens 
and other trees might be seen crawling the larvae . . . the completed cocoons were to be 
seen by thousands. . . . not one is molested by passer domesticus." The extracts from 
one of Dr. Brewer's articles, printed in the body of this paper, read very curiously in the 
face of the facts adduced. The writer had every opportunity for accurate observation. 
1877. Samuels, E. A. Butcher Birds aud Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <( Boston 
Transcript, Feb. 3, 1877. 
Denunciatory of the Sparrow, and advocating the Butcher Birds as destroyers of the nui- 
sance. "The bird will unquestionably prove as great a nuisance in this country as it has 
been found in Europe, aud I doubt not a bounty will at some time be offered for its head. 
. . . The English sparrow has driven away all our own pretty and interesting and musi- 
cal birds, and 1 almost wish for a visitation from some immense host of 'butcherbirds' to 
finish them." 
1877. [i. e. Henry Ward Beecher]. Star Paper.-Sparrows to the Rescue. 
<( The Christian Union, Aug. 8, 1877. 
The celebrated clergyman who here essays ornithology, in somewhat satirical vein, accuses 
E. Coues of having "incited a riot" against the Sparrows; denies the allegation that the 
Sparrows molest native birds; calls it "treason," and predicts that Hie ornithologist men- 
tioned "shall be known in the kingdom of birds as a public foe," with much more of the same 
sort. It is presumed that many uninformed or misinformed persons may agr ee with him. 
1877. The Starlings iu Central Park.-Some disparaging Comments about 
the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Forest and Stream, vol. viii, June 14, 
1877, pp. 307, 308. 
This is a composite article, consisting of letters from several persons. 1. Wm. "Walsh, of 
Brooklyn, N. Y., gives instances of the Sparrows harassing other birds, and states that he 
knows from experience that the Sparrow is "a good-for-nothing domineering bird." 2. II. 
G. Carey, of Indianapolis, weighs the evidence for aud against the birds, in a very im- 
partial manner, in fourteen distinct propositions. 3. "E." writes favorably of .the birds, 
though detailing their disputes with Bluebirds and Wrens. 4. "Bed Wing" states that the 
presence of the Sparrows makes very little difference with other birds. 5. Is from T. M. 
Brewer. 6. II. D. Alinot presents evidence against the birds in four distinct counts. 
1877. Further Evidence on the Sparrow Question., < Forest and Stream, vol. 
viii. July 26, 1877, p. 420 (see also pp. 261, 360, 379). 
Three letters from correspondents. 1. " Tanager" deems it not only a duty but a pleasure 
to add his testimony against the birds. 2. "Fidelis" wishes to say a few words for the dear 
companions of her childhood, the native birds, which the Sparrows had driven away. 
3. "Woman" attests the pluck of the Sparrow, &c. 
1878. Akhurst, J. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]-Letter from a Competent 
Witness. < Boston Journal, Mar. 15, 1878. 
"I believe the sparrow to be a very useful little bird, and I should be very sorry to see 
nim destroyed." No. 2. ] 
COVES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS 
185 
1878. Akiiurst, J. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus], < Forest and Stream, 
x. April 18, 1878, p. 196. 
Favorable to the bird. 
1878. Allen, J. A. The Nuttall Ornithological Club. < Boston Journal, Mar. 19, 
1878. 
A dignified and well-considered defence of the Club from the attacks made in the article 
entitled "History Repeating Itself," and elsewhere. "Neither the ideas, the similes, nor the 
phraseology of the article are new, having done service repeatedly in other Boston papers 
within a few weeks in a similar connection. Therefore the inference is natural, that they 
have emanated, either directly or indirectly, from a single source. The article in question is 
simply a presentation, in connected form, of the various anonymous squibs that have appeared 
repeatedly in other papers. . . . Unfortunate, indeed, is it if this purely practical and 
scientific question cannot be discussed on its merits, and that the defenders of the sparrows 
must confess their weakness by a persistent resort to such unsafe weapons as misrepresenta- 
tion and ridicule." 
1878. Allen, J. A. The Nuttall Ornithological Club. Transcript, Mar. 21, 
1878. 
A defence of the Club, which had been "referred to contemptuously as a body of 'Cam- 
bridge juveniles,' 'precocious boys,' ' over-modest youths,' " &c., including a statement of its 
organization and operations, and the real character of its membership. T. M. Brewer is 
mentioned as a member, and a contributor to the Bulletin of the Club. 
1878. Anon. [A Witticism.] <-Ewmwtj Transcript (Boston, Mass.),Nov. 6, 1878. 
"An eminent ornithologist [i. e. Dr. Brewer?], who evidently does not sympathize with the 
juveniles of Cambridge [i. e. the Nuttall Ornithological Club] in their diatribes against the 
sparrow, in a letter to a friend in this city writes, ' The three tailors of Toodle street, Bos- 
ton, have made their resolutions, committing the people of the United States to antagonism 
on the sparrow question.' " 
1878. Anon. [Editorial paragraph on Passer domesticus.] < Port Huron Times, 
Mar. 13,1878. 
Unfavorable to the birds. 
r878. Anon. History Repeating Itself. Boston Journal, morning edition, Mar. 14, 
1878. 
Opening with a reference to the "tailors of Toodle street," this article characterizes the 
Nuttall Ornithological Club as the "association of over-modest young gentlemen, comprising 
lads fitting for college and undergraduates, with a sprinkling of others a few years their 
seniors," overlooking the membership of some whose years, as well as their eminence iu 
science, should have entitled them to more respectful consideration than this. The article is 
entirely devoted to ridicule and abuse of the Club.-On begging to know its authorship, 
to complete my bibliography of the subject, I was informed by Dr. Brewer that he did not 
write it, and that, furthermore, he had never even read the published proceedings of the Club. 
Its peculiar vein of satire is, however, diagnostic of its authorship, whosever hand actually 
penned it; though doubtless the answer I received was true to the letter. It is a matter for 
surprise, however, that Dr. Brewer should have remained uninformed of the action of the 
Club in a matter in which he had previously, and has subsequently, shown himself to be 
interested. 
1878. Anon. Justice to the English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < The Country, i. 
Feb. 16,1878, p. 229. 
Congratulating the Nuttall Club on the result of their action. 
1878. Anon. Our Naturalized Bird [Passer domesticus]. < Chelsea (Mass.) Record, 
May 11, 1878. 
An unornithological editorial, favoring the Sparrows, and giving a fling at the Nuttall Club. 
1878. Anon. The House Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <Ohio Farmer, Mar. 3, 1878. 
Review of T. G. Gentry's book. 
1878. Axon. The Other Side [of the Sparrow Question]. < Boston Journal, June 18, 
1878. 
Entirely favorable to the Sparrow, but consisting largely of assertions, not statements of 
fact. The anonymous writer takes occasion to abuse Dr. Cones and T. G. Gentry for their 
views, which he quotes, though without mentioning names. 
Bull, v, 2 3 186 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[m v. 
1878. Anon. "History Repeats Itself, But Fools Profit Not by Its Teachings."- 
[Carlyle. <( Boston Evening Journal, July 19, 1878. 
Authorship unknown, but the style familiar. It reiterates the assertion that the Sparrows 
"have nobly done their part of the work" in destroying orgyia lercostigua [sic], 
1878. Anon. [Statement of the continued efforts of J. Galvin, with a force of 35 
men, to do what the Sparrows had been alleged to have done in clearing trees 
of Orgyia leucostigma. ] <( Boston Post, July 19, 1878. 
1878. Anon. Notes. < The (N. Y.) Nation, Aug. 8, 1878. 
Reviewing E. Coues's article in The American Naturalist for August, 1878, with a r6sum6 
of the points there made. 
1878. Anon. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <[ The Country (N. Y.), Aug. 10, 
1878. 
1878. Anon. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Question. <( Evening Tran- 
script (Boston), Aug. 13, 1878. 
Copied from the New York Nation of August 8, 1878, q. v. 
1878. Anon. [E. Cones as inimical to the European Sparrow.] Scientific Farmer 
(Boston), iii. No. 9, Sept. 1878. 
"Now that the doctor has classified the friends of the sparrow, who is wise or honest enough 
to argue the matter ? Plainly, only those who agree with him. What science! " 
1878. Appleton, G. L. The English Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in Georgia. 
<f Forest and Stream, Mar. 28, 1878, p. 135. 
Their arrival at Myrtle Grove, Bryan County, in March, 1878. 
1878. Aughey, S. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. First Ann. Bep. U. S. 
Entomological Commission, 1877, p. 349. 
"Several persons have advocated the introduction of the English sparrow [in Nebraska], 
in order to mitigate our insect plagues. Such a policy, it appears to me, would be highly 
objectionable. . . . Where I have seen this bird in America it has gradually driven off 
our native birds. . . . Some years ago, . . . the English sparrows were introduced into 
Nebraska City, and have multiplied to a considerable extent, but the number of species of 
insects that they feed on, as has been anticipated, has been found to be small. This of course 
could have been endured if they were not so hostile to other birds, native to the soil, that do 
much better." 
1878. Ballou, W. H. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus] in Illinois. < The 
Country, i. Jau. 12, 1878, p. 149. 
1878. Ballou, W. H. English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < The Chicago Times, 
Sept. 8, 1878. Reprinted, Mexico (N. F.) Independent. 
Highly unfavorable to the Sparrows, which are denounced in unmeasured terms. 
1878. "Bird." The "English Sparrow" [Passer domesticus] Question. Massa- 
chusetts Ploughman, Aug. 3, 1878. 
Chiefly historical, with reference to legislative action in the case. "In March, 1877, an 
order was introduced in the Massachusetts Senate, by Senator Gregory, concerning the Eng- 
lish sparrows, and this order was referred to the Committee on Agriculture. The sparrow 
was, and is, protected under our laws. The idea of this order was to have this protection 
removed because of the character and habits of the sparrow." On a hearing, the evidence 
proved to be "almost entirely against the sparrow." A clear statement of the many counts 
against the birds follows: " The evidence was conclusive that, outside of cities and towns, 
in all countries where they exist, they are an undoubted nuisance to agriculturists. In Cuba, 
where they were in 1862 or 1863, and had become very numerous, they do immense damage, and 
are called 'Destroyers.' The bill seems however to have failed, from the opposition of Rep- 
resentatives from large townsand cities, 'who thought the trees would suffer without the 
sparrows.' " 
1878. Boner, J. H. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] in the Snow. 'By John Henry 
Boner, [n. d., n. p. Washington, D. C. Darby & Duvall. 1878.] Sq. 18mo. 
pp. 12, with eng. title and 4 other cuts. 
Poem. No. 2. ] 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
187 
1878. Brewer, T. M. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus].-A Note from Dr. Brewer. 
< Boston Daily Advertiser, Feb. 25,1878. 
"Protesting" against J. Dixwell's letter as "the extreme discourtesy on the part of a total 
stranger," who had presumed to state the results of his dissections of 39 Sparrows, and aver- 
ring that he [T. M. Brewer] has "neither the time nor the inclination to consider the opin- 
ions given hy the young gentlemen of the Nuttall Club." See 1878, Nuttall Ornith. Club. 
1878. Brewer, T. M. [On Orgyia leucostigma as food of Passer domesticus.] 
< Proc. Bost. Soc. Nat. Hist, for 1877, xix. 1878, pp. 260-262. 
It may be noted here, that Sparrows supposed to be devouring the eggs or larvae of this 
insect, may have been digging into empty cocoons. The article includes a note from Dr. H. 
Hagen, intimating his belief that the Sparrows do not interfere with native birds. See 1878, 
Purdie, H. A 
1878. Brewer, T. M. Defending the Sparrows [Passer domesticus].-A Distinguished 
Boston Naturalist Protests Against Their Extermination. <( The Post (Wash- 
ington, D. C.), Dec. 7, 1878. 
T. M. Brewer having been apprised of E. Coues's communication to the Commissioners of 
the District of Columbia, hastened to interfere, more suo. The present paragraph is a digest 
of his letter to the Commissioners, warning them against a proposition "so unjust to our 
benefactors, so unwise in itself, and so wholly unreasonable" as that made to them by Dr. 
Cones; imploring them to confer with "his life-long friend, Prof. Baird"; bringing F. Pr6vost 
this time to the front instead of J. Galvin; attempting to confound Dr. Coues out of his owu 
mouth by an incompleted reference to the latter's "Key to North American Birds"; and tak- 
ing issue on each point of Dr. Coues's "assumptions"; thus verifying one or more of the five 
categories of persons in which Dr. Coues had classed the Sparrows' defenders. 
1878. Brewster, W. The Nuttall Ornithological Club of Cambridge. << Boston 
Daily Advertiser, Mar. 20, 1878. 
A card representing the obvious inaccuracy of calling the members of the Club "boys," 
T. M. Brewer and others being of their number. 
1878. C. E. H[amlin]. The English Sparrows [Passer domesticus], < The Times 
(Bath, Me.), Feb. 26,1878. 
This is a report of the discussion of the Nuttall Club by a person who was present at the 
meeting, and a rdsume of the evidence supporting the charges brought against the Sparrow; 
with a long array of facts from personal observation. "1st. It is found wherever the spar- 
rows have become established, they are annually driving out more and more completely 
our most valued native birds." "2nd. The sparrows have been seen repeatedly to destroy 
the eggs and young of other birds by blows with their bills." "3d. Wherever the English 
sparrows have become abundant, it is found that they make foraging expeditions in flocks, 
from cities and villages which they prefer for abodes, into the grain fields of the surrounding 
farms." "4th. In the region about Boston, the sparrows fail to compensate for the evil they 
commit." These four propositions are supported by testimony of eye-witnesses. The article 
occupies two columns, and was written from Cambridge, Mass. 
1878. "Corvin." A Sparrow's Chirrup from Europe. <Forest and Stream, Nov. 28, 
1878. 
Being "much amused at the bitterness which the sparrow-war in America has assumed," 
the writer chirrups pleasantly on the subject. 
1878. Coues, E. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Pest. Country, Jan. 19, 
1878. 
Citing the observations of Dr. Sacc, Rev. et May. de Zool. xii. p. 94, in evidence of the extra- 
ordinary fecundity of these birds. A female laid 35 eggs in as many days. 
1878. Coues, E. The Ineligibility of the European House Sparrow [Passer domesti- 
cns] in America. <( Amer. Nat. xii. No. 8, Aug. 1878, pp. 499-505. 
This is a general statement of the case, indicting the Sparrow, with specific charges, and 
recommendations. It asserts that in the case of the Sparrow, the history of the white-weed 
and the Norway rat is repeated. It divides the friends of the Sparrow into five categories, 
only one of which is regarded as entitled to serious attention in discussing the matter upon 
scientific and economic grounds. The fifth category is said to consist of "a very few intelligent 
and scientific persons, who recognize fully what little good the sparrow undeniably does, and 
shape a favorable argument mainly from the undisputed advantages which result from a cer- 
tain just and proper number of sparrows in Europe." The argument is shown to be thoroughly 
fallacious, as it does not apply to the present American state of the case. The specifications 
against the birds are thus stated: 1. They neglect entirely, or perform very insufficiently, the 188 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[Vai. V. 
1878. Coues, E.-Continued. 
business they were imported to do. 2. They attack, harass, tight against, dispossess, drive 
away, and sometimes actually kill various of our native birds which are much more insectivo- 
rous by nature than themselves, and which might do us better service if they were equally 
encouraged. 3. They commit great depredations in the kitchen-garden, the orchard, and the 
grain-field. 4. They are personally obnoxious and unpleasant to many persons. 5. They have, 
at present, practically, no natural enemies, nor any check whatever upon limitless increase. 
One suggestion and two recommendations are made. The suggestion is, to make the experi- 
ments obviously necessary to determine exactly what the birds eat in this country: to exam- 
ine the stomachs of say five hundred sparrows, killed in places infested with noxious insects, 
at the height of the season, and see if insects form any considerable portion of their food. 
The recommendations are: I. Let the birds shift for themselves; that is, stop feeding them, 
take down the boxes, put them on the same footing as other birds. II. Abolish the legal pen- 
alties for killing them. The article was several times reprinted, and reproduced in editorial 
abridgment by the press of the country at large. 
1878. Coues, E. The Ineligibility of the European House Sparrow [Passer domesti- 
cus] in America. < The Chicago Field, Aug. 31, 1878. 
In full from The American Naturalist, xii. No. 8, August, 1878, q. v. 
1878. Coues, E. The Ineligibility of the European House Sparrow [Passer domesti- 
cus] in America. The Country (N. Y.), Aug. 3, 1878, pp. 233, 234. 
Reprinted in full from The American Naturalist for August, 1878. 
1878. Dixwell, J. Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. Boston Daily Advertiser, about 
Mar. 7,1878. 
Apologizing for "all real or imaginary insults" T. M. Brewer may have been offered by the 
publication of the results of dissection of 39 Sparrows in whose gizzards no insects were found. 
1878. Editor. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Forest and Stream, Apr. 
18, 1878. 
Editorial note, presenting to favorable notice a letter from J. Akhurst defending the Spar- 
row. It is the same letter which appeared in the Boston Journal, Mar. 15, 1878. 
1878. Editor. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. Massachusetts Ploughman, Aug. 
3,1878. 
Extracts from an article by H. Hagen, which appeared in the American Agriculturist, favor- 
able to the SpaiTows. 
1878. Editor. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and Skylarks. < Forest and Stream, xi. 
Dec. 19, 1878, p. 406. 
Their introduction on Long Island. 
1878. Elliot, D. G. American [Spizclla socialis] vs. English Sparrows [Passer do- 
mesticus]. <_ Forest and Stream, Aug. 15, 1878. 
Narrating an encounter in which the former worsted the latter. 
1878. "Fruit Buds." Those English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < The Post 
(Washington, D. C.), Mar. 22, 1878. 
Molestation of native birds, and destruction of fruit, by the "little pests known as English 
Sparrows." 
1878. Gentry, T. G. The | House Sparrow | at | Home and Abroad, | with some | con- 
cluding remarks upon its usefulness, | and | copious references to the litera- 
ture of the subject. | By | Thomas G. Gentry, | [etc.,5 lines.] | Philadelphia: 
| Claxton, Remsen, and Haffelfinger. | 1878. 1 vol. 8vo. pp. iii-viii, 9-128, 
with colored frontisp. pl. of Passer domesticus $ J . 
One of the good results of the controversy has been the appearance of this work, in which 
the whole subject is set forth at full length, in clear light, with every regard for impartiality. 
Mr. Gentry's careful and critical survey of the situation renders bis presentation of the case 
conclusive. All the charges that have been brought against the Sparrow are discussed and 
substantiated, while due weight is given to the other side of the question. It is a very useful 
book, which should be widely circulated. The following are the main heads: Introduction 
(classifieatory, etc.), p. 9. The Sparrow in Europe, p. 14. The Sparrow in America, p. 33. 
Evidence, both positive and negative (£. e. for and against), of the Sparrows' usefulness in 
America, p. 74. Concluding remarks, p. 90. Appendix (bibliography), p. 113. No. 2. ] 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS 
189 
1878. "Germania." English Sparrows [Passer domesticus], Transcript 
(Boston, Mass.), Mar. 4,1878. 
Asking fair play for his friends, the Sparrows, whom, he states, he treats with respect; in 
return for which "they give me considerable chirping, very cheerful to my ear." 
1878. Gleason, E. B. Bine Bird [Sialia sialis] vs. Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. 
<( Forest and Stream, x. May 2, 1878, p. 235. 
The Sparrow worsted in the encounter. 
1878. [Grinnell, G. B.] The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus] in America. 
<[ Forest and Stream, xi. Sept. 5, 1878. 
Comments upon recent phases of the discussion of the utility of Passer domesticus in 
America; and additional testimony. 
1878. Hagen, H. A. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus].-Professor Hagen's Views. 
< Boston Evening Transcript, Mar. 28, 1878. 
A temperate and well-considered article, largely devoted, however, to the state of affairs in 
Europe This is the mistake, it would seem, that some otherwise well-informed authors are 
apt to make. As I have elsewhere shown, the cases are not parallel at present, and any argu- 
ment derived from considerations that may apply in Europe fail of equal applicability to the 
present state of affairs in America. The article will well repay perusal as one of the most 
satisfactory statements that can bo drawn up in favbr of the Sparrows. Its candor and sin- 
cerity are conspicuous by comparison with much that has been advanced on this side. 
1878. Haldeman, S. S. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] and Pewees [Sayornis fuscus]. 
<_ Jmer. Nat. xii. No. 2, 1878, p. 124. 
The former attacking the latter. 
1878. "Hanover." English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <(Boston Daily Adver- 
tiser, May 16, 1878. 
Statement that the Sparrows "lead other birds to come near dwelling-houses instead of 
driving them away"! 
1878. Hoffman, W. J. Notes on the Nesting Habits of the English Sparrow [Passer 
domesticus]. < Jwier. Nat. xii. No. 4, Apr. 1878, pp. 251, 252. 
Repeated destruction of Robins' nests by the Sparrows. 
1878. Hovey, R. Another Opinion [respecting Passer domesticus]. <[ Forest and 
Stream, Nov. 14, 1878. 
"I differ with Mr. Roosevelt concerning the insectivorous habits of the bird." 
1878. Ingersoll, Ernest. The Sparrow in America. <( The [London] Field, li. Mar. 
23, 1878, p. 335. 
A sketch of the colonization of Passer domesticus in the United States, and an account of 
the discussion of the Nuttall Ornithological Club upon the question of its usefulness. 
1878. "J." The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Nuisance. Post (Washington, 
D. C.), Sept. 20,1878. 
" The sparrows arc an increasing pest. ... If there is a law to protect them it should be 
repealed and the sparrow nuisance abated." 
1878. " Justitia." A Word for the Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < The Post (Wash- 
ington, D. C.), Sept. 21,1878. 
"Now, Mr. Editor, 'let justice prevail though the heavens fall'", &c. 
1878. Maynard, C. J. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] War. Scientific 
Farmer (Boston), iii. Feb. 1878, p. 27. 
A sketch of the discussion respecting the merits and demerits of the Sparrows. 
1878. " Munchausen." The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <" Evening Transcript, 
Feb. 27,1878. 
The person who selected this suggestive pseudonym says : " There seems to be a growing 
impression that one or two of the boys of the Nuttall Club rather overloaded their fowling 
pieces in their war on the sparrow." 
1878. "Naturalist." The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Forest and Stream, 
xi. Oct. 3, 1878, p. 179. 
1878. Newcomb, R. L. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < The Country 
(New York), Aug. 10,1878. 
Unequivocal evidence of decrease in numbers of native birds since the Sparrows became 
numerous. 190 
[To?. V. 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
1878. "Noiman," Sparrow [Passer domesticus] and Starling. Forest and Stream, 
x. Jnne 20, 1878, p. 379. 
The desirability of their introduction into the epuntry. 
1878. Nuttall Ornithological Club. Sparrows [Passer domesticus].-The Nuttall 
Ornithological Club decides against them. Boston Daily Advertiser, vol. 
cxxxi, No. 47, Feb. 23, 1878. 
The inside history of this article is: Some time about January, 1878, Dr. Brewer was in my 
office in Washington, where some words on the subject grew a little heated toward the close 
of the interview, when 1 proposed tliat it would be well to ask the Nuttall Club to take up 
and sift the matter, that we might get at the facts, if possible. The reply was complimentary 
neither to the sincerity of my proposition nor to the ornithological ability of the Club, of 
which he was a member. I soon after addressed to the Club a communication inviting their 
attention to the matter, suggesting a full and fair discussion of the subject in open meeting, 
and representing that the Club was specially well qualified to come to just conclusions, con- 
sisting, as it did, of a number of working ornithologists of recognized ability and experience, 
who were perfectly familiar with the case as presented in Boston, Cambridge, and vicinity. 
The meeting was soon after held. Notice was sent to the resident members of the proposed 
consideration of the question, and corresponding members were also invited to take part in the 
discussion. Dr. Brewer for some reason did not attend the meeting. The report of the meet- 
ing, constituting the present article, indicates that Air. J."A. Allen, Mr. William Brewster, 
Mr. II. A. Purdie, Mr. H. D. Minot, Mr. Ruthven Deane, and others, participated in the 
discussion. Mr. Allen's views are not here presented. All the testimony here reported is 
unfavorable to the Sparrows, but need not be here analyzed, as it is only what every competent 
and unprejudiced observer knows; it is explicit, emphatic, and irrefragable, substantiating 
every count that has been brought against the birds. The article includes an open letter to 
Dr. Brewer from John Dixwell, M. D., stating that in 39 individuals, taken at the height of 
the canker-worm pest, no trace of insect food could be found on dissecting; the publication 
of which letter gave offence to Dr. Brewer, who considered it an unwarrantable liberty to 
take with his name. "At the close of the discussion a vote was taken on the question of 
whether or not, in the opinion of those present, the further increase of the house sparrow in 
this country was desirable. The result was a unanimous negative." Dr. Brewer's action 
upon the testimony thus offered by experts may be gathered from other titles in this Bibliog- 
raphy. 
1878. Nuttall Ornithological Club. Sparrows [Passer domesticus] brought to 
Judgment.-Discussion of the Nuttall Ornithological Chib upon the Merits 
and Demerits of the English Sparrow in the United States. < The Country 
(newspaper of New York), Feb. 23,1878, pp. 245,246, tig. 
This is the full report of the meeting, communicated officially by the Club, occupying nearly 
two pages (5 columns). It gives much matter additional to that published in the Boston Daily 
Advertiser, and is specially important in presenting at length the views of J. A. Allen, and in- 
cluding communications from Mr. II. Ridgway and Dr. C. C. Abbott, not given in the Boston 
report of the proceedings. Alien's carefully-considered testimony, though well guarded, is, 
emphatically and explicitly, against the Sparrows. "Mr. Allen further stated, that every orni- 
thologist of note throughout the country who has expressed himself upon the subject (and 
nearly all have done so) has, almost without exception, declared against the Spanow. Not a 
few of them consider their rapid increase an alarming evil, which will soon call for legislative 
action to hold it in check." 
1878. "Ornis." [G. A. Stockwell.] The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus].- 
His Enemies and Friends-What a Pint Huron Naturalist has to Say on the 
Subject. <[ Port Huron Times, March 16, 1878. 
Says the writer: " The opposition to the sparrow began with Dr. Elliott Coues, a young 
ornithologist of considerable talent, though possessing more assurance than knowledge. . . . 
He started the ball, which has since been kicked by his satellites, in an article in the Field 
and Forest, [quotation from Coues and Prentiss follows]. Ridiculous as the above paragraph 
is, particularly as coming from a would-be scientist, it was immediately taken up and made 
the battle cry of the Nuttall Ornithological Club. . . . Chief among this coterie of ornitho- 
logists (?) is H. D. Minot, a youth who has the credit of publishing the most execrable, and 
monstrously inaccurate, work on birds extant." After more in t.iis strain, there appears a 
letter from Mr. John Galvin, disagreeing with the observations of nearly all other persons. 
Still more curiously, the writer continues: "As final evidence, I quote from a personal letter 
received from Dr. Thos. M. Brewer." This letter, signed " Very cordially yours," rehearses 
matter with which the public has become familiar. I had some trouble to ascertain the 
authorship of this article; I saw a letter from the editor of the paper stating that it was 
written by G. A. Stockwell; and I saw a letter from G. A. Stockwell stating that he did not 
write it. No. 2. J 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
191 
1878. Purdie, H. A. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <( Evening Transcript, Mar. 
19, 1878. 
Covering a copy of The Country of February 23, 1878, which contained the full report of the 
Nuttall Club's proceedings, Mr. J. A. Alien's testimony having been omitted from the report 
as published in Boston. Mr. Allen's testimony follows. 
1878. Purdie, II. A. The "English Sparrow" [Passer domesticus] in Boston. 
<( Massachusetts Ploughman, July 20, 1878. 
A column of testimony in the matter of the Orgyia leucostigma. It is evident from this 
that the Sparrows are not efficient in destroying this noxious insect. The writer states, 
further, that the apparent attacks of the Sparrows upon the cocoons were not to devour the 
contents, but the spiders and certain parasites, which are the natural foes of the tussock 
moth! 
1878. Purdie, H. A. " History repeating itself." Poston Advertiser, July 16, 1878. 
Adopting Dr. Brewer's epigrammatic title for the fact that what had been observed a year 
before respecting abundance of Orgyia leucostigma might be verified by any one who would 
now examine the shade-trees of Boston. 
1878. Riley, C. V. Anent the English Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. 
Star (Washington, D. C.), Dec. 25, 1878; Pacific Rural Press, Jan. 25, 1879; 
and several other reprints. 
A letter to Major J. W. Twining, District Commissioner, conveying important evidence 
against the Sparrows, from a well-known expert in economic entomology. It appears that 
whatever good the Sparrows may have done by destroying canker-worms is more than coun- 
terbalanced by the room thus made for the .increase of even more destructive insects. The 
article gives new and valuable testimony from an authoritative source, and should be care- 
fully considered. 
1878. Roosevelt, R. B. Spare the Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <Forest and Stream, 
Oct. 10,1878. 
The five categories of persons who defend the Sparrow, as set forth by E. Coues, seem to 
have made an impression on this gentleman, who, without saying to which one he may be- 
long, begins his article thus: "I lately saw an article from Dr. Coues, in which he renews his 
abuse of the sparrow, or, to speak more accurately, of those who approve the sparrow. He 
divides the advocates and supporters of the foreign little bird into five classes, four of which 
he calls idiots, and the fifth weak-minded. This is a very powerful and almost conclusive 
argument against the sparrows." But Mr. Roosevelt may be reminded that no such epithets 
occur in E. Coues's article. The writer goes on with a very pleasant, gossipy article in favor 
of the Sparrows, in a rather amiable and courteous than logical or convincing strain. 
1878. Smith, Everett. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Pest. <_ The Country, 
i. Feb. 9, 1878, p. 213. 
Contrasting the good condition of shade-trees protected by coal-tar with the state of those 
left to perish by being entrusted to the attentions of the Sparrows. "My observations of the 
habits of these birds in their native homes led me to the belief that for a pest we might be 
rid of through other means we should substitute a pest that it would be extremely difficult, 
if not impossible, ever to get rid of-and that is the sparrow pest." 
1878. "Suburb." A Word for the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Evening Tran- 
script (Boston, Mass.), Feb. 26,1878. 
Statement of his impressions respecting the Nuttall Club, and his indifference in the mat- 
ter. " To the average human being, it is of no consequence whether the bird in front of his 
house is called a Fringilla or a Chinchilla; what he wants is a bird." 
1878. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] in America. < Unknown paper, 
about August, 1878. 
Abridged from E. Coues's article in the American Naturalist for August, 1878. 
1878. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Nuisance. < Times and Dispatch (Read- 
ing, Pa.), vol. xli. No. 109, Aug. 8, 1878. 
Editorial excerpts from E. Coues's article in The American Naturalist for August, 1878. 
"The array of charges brought against that quarrelsome alien is overwhelming. The Lan- 
caster New Fra, from which we quote, says 'no man either in this country or elsewhere is 
more competent to discuss the question than Dr. Coues, and what he says we are willing to 
accept as authority. His words will have more weight among naturalists than all the silly 
sentimentality which the host of ignorant people who have discussed the sparrow question 
have brought forward.' " The gist of Dr. Coues's recommendations upon the subject completes 
the article. 192 
BULLETIN UNITED STATES GEOLOGICAL SURVEY. 
[Fol. V. 
1878. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus] at the Bar. < New York Times, 
Sept. 3, 1878. 
Three letters from correspondents. 1. "G. H. G." argues pro and con. 2. "I. H. B." reasons 
emphatically against the birds: "talk with an Englishman, a German, or an Italian, who 
knows anything about their habits, and he will laugh at the folly of Americans for introducing 
them here." 3.' "N. D." does not apparently believe that they harass native birds. 
1878. [A column or more on the Sparrow question. ] New York Times, Sept. 
2, 1878. 
Not seen. 
1878. Etchings and Echoes. <[ Daily Evening Traveller (Boston), Aug. 13, 
1878. 
"Thousands of Sparrows visit the grounds about the East Boston grain elevator, daily, and 
it is apparent that they prefer the wheat brought from the West to the insects that swarm." 
1878. The Sparrow [Passer domesticus] Question in England. <[ The Chicago 
Field, Sept. 28, 1878. 
Letters from S. E. Garnett and E. Anthony, against and for the bird. 
1878. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. <[ Forest and Stream, Oct. 3, 
1878, pp. 179,180. 
That the Sparrow may be a blessing in one place and a nuisance in another is brought for- 
ward by a correspondent from Bay Ridge, Long Island, who signs himself "Fair Play for the 
Sparrows." This is followed by "a delightful picture of a home surrounded by feathered 
songsters," signed "Naturalist," who states that he has more song-birds about him than he 
had before the Sparrows came. 
1878. An Enemy to the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < The Post (Wash- 
ington, D. C.), Nov. 22, 1878. 
A paragraph stating that an article entitled the "Ineligibility of the European House 
• Sparrow in America" had been sent by its author to the Commissioners of the District, 
accompanied by a letter recommending measures to be taken to abate the nuisance. 
1879. Anon. [Brewer, T. M.] Conclusive Testimony [that Passer domesticus docs 
not molest native birds]. <[ Boston Journal, Jan. 17, 1879. 
Mr. G. H. Cones having shortly before published a list of sixty species of birds observed in 
Brooklyn, New York, where the Sparrows are abundant, T. M. Brewer anonymously regards 
this as "conclusive testimony." Yet by parity of reason it would be maintained that hawks 
and owls do not molest other birds, there being several of these rapacious birds in the list. 
Nor does the writer stop to consider how many more species more numerously represented 
might have been found there but for the Sparrows. 
1879. Bagg, E., jr. A Plea for the Birds [of America, against the invasion of Passer 
domesticus]. < Utica Morning Herald and Daily Gazette, Feb. 5, 1879. 
A fair and extended statement of the case. 
1879. Browne, F. C. Advice unheeded. < Forest and Stream, Jan. 30, 1879. 
Showing that wo had been duly forewarned by II. J. Bruce, who, in an article on the Birds 
of India, after quoting Dr. Jordon as saying that the Passer of that country was one of the 
greatest pests, goes on to state his apprehensions that the experiment of introducing the 
birds in America would prove ill-advised and inexpedient. Dr. Bruce's remarks will be found 
in The American Naturalist, vi. 1872, pp. 468-470. 
"If the sparrow is to be introduced into America to devour the larvae of insects, it should 
be remembered that it is for the most part a feeder on grain, seeds and buds and that it only 
makes a business of devouring grubs during its breeding season. ... I trust that those who 
have to do in this matter will act advisedly, lest they should introduce that which will event- 
ually become as great a nuisance in its way, as the curculio and the cankerworm." This 
prescience of 1872 was, as Mr. Browne says, "advice unheeded." 
1879. Coues, E. Latest from the Seat of War in Sparrowland. <Forest and Stream, 
Feb. 27, 1879. 
Merely satirizing the anonymous article entitled "Conclusive Testimony," which appeared 
in the Boston Journal of January 17,1879. The writer enquires, further, respecting that 
Napoleonic confidence in Sparrows which the Bostonians display by using coal-tar to protect 
their trees from the insects which the Sparrow s are declared by some to have effectually 
destroyed. No. 2. ] 
COUES ON PASSER DOMESTICUS. 
193 
1879. Editor. [G. B. Grinnell.] This is Evidence [against Passer domesticus as a 
destroyer of insects]. < Forest and Stream, xii. N6. 10, Apr. 10, 1879, p. 190. 
Analyzing and commenting upon C. J. Maynard's results of dissection of 56 sparrows in 
whose stomachs no insects were found. 
1879. Hoag, Julia S. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Forest and 
Stream, Feb. 20, 1879. 
An extended and impartial article, largely historical, and an interesting contribution to the 
subject. "Inasmuch as nearly all the reliable statements with regard to the sparrow a,re 
decidedly to his discredit," <tc. "In 1874, Dr. Thomas M. Brewer recorded himself in favor 
of the sparrow, and, I believe, still maintains that attitude towards them. . . . This con- 
viction has been forced upon me, though it may now seem a reiteration of Dr. Cones, to those 
who have followed him, that scientific testimony is strongly adverse to the sparrow, and 
sentiment only is his warm ally." E. Coues's paper in The American Naturalist for August, 
1878, is largely cited in evidence. 
1879. Howell, E. H. A Check on the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. <[ Forest and 
Stream, Mar. 13, 1879, p. 106. 
Scops asio feeding on the Sparrows. The editor wishes the owl "good speed in the good 
work." 
1879. Ingersoll, E. Sketches by a Traveler. < The Chicago Field, Apr. 12,1879. 
Having seen the MS. of an article by E. Coues "On the Present Status of Passer domesticus 
in America," etc., the writer devotes about half of his "Sketch" to the consideration of this 
subject, with extracts from the then unpublished bibliography with which Dr. Coues's 
article concludes. 
1879. Ingersoll, E. War on the Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. < Evening Post 
(N. Y.), Apr. -, 1879. 
Dated from Washington, April 2, and doubtless published within a few days. The sub- 
head-"What Dr. Elliott Coues is doing to prevent the destruction of Western crops-his 
reasons for believing that the English Sparrow is scarcely less dangerous than the grass- 
hopper-a warning to the West and a scheme for avoiding the danger"-indicates the char- 
acter of the article, which is based upon that published by E. Coues in Bull. U. S. Geol. 
Surv. vol. v, No. 2, pp. 175-194. 
1879. Maynard, C. J. The Euglish Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < The Scientific 
Farmer (Boston), Mar. 1879, pp. 35-37, figs. 25,26. 
An important article, giving direct testimony, from original dissections, of the nature of 
the Sparrow's food. In not a single one of the 56 cases was a trace of insect food found. 
1879. Read, M. C. The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus] and our Native Song- 
Birds. < Amer. Nat. xiii. No. 3, Mar. 1879, pp. 190,191. 
"It cannot be supposed that the native songsters retire in anticipation of the intrusion of 
their foreign cousins, and some other cause for their disappearance must be sought." 
1879. " S." The Euglish Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Cultivator and Country 
Gentleman, Jan. 30, 1879. 
The damage done to corn. " These pests alighted upon a piece of field corn, tore open the 
ends of the ears with their strong bills, and fed upon the soft grain. ... In this way nearly 
every ear over a large portion of the field was damaged before it became too hard for them to 
operate upon." 
1879. S[chieffelin ?], E. The Sparrows [Passer domesticus]. One who took part 
in bringing them to this city now takes up the pen in their defence. < N. Y. 
Evening Post, Apr. 15, 1879. 
A well-written article, doubtless by Mr. Eugene Schieffelin, saying what can be said in 
defence of the birds, but largely supporting his statements by facts of the case as observed in 
Europe. The paper is one of the fairest and otherwise best of those that have been written 
on the off side of the controversy. . 
1879. S. S. O. The English Sparrow [Passer Domesticus]. < Unknown paper, Jan. 16, 
1879. 
Damage done to corn. 
1879. "W. C." The English Sparrow [Passer domesticus]. < Gardener's Monthly, 
Feb. 1879. 
" Concerning the English Sparrow eating fruit I can speak positively."