Birds of Porto Rico /

Abstract

Accurate knowledge in regard to the economic status and relative abundance of the island birds was lacking, and there was little upon which to base protective legislation.MKnowledge was lacking also in regard to practicable methods for increasing useful resident species; and, finally, as to the desirability of introducing exotic insectivorous or other birds.Investigations were begun in December, 1911, and continuous field work was carried on until September, 1912, permitting nine months of consecutive observation.All the principal regions of Porto Rico were visited, short trips were made to the adjacent islands of Vieques and Culebra, and four days were spent on Desecheo Island, in Mona Passage.