
audiobook
by Ottó Herman, J. A. (Jean Allan) Owen
![[Image of the cove not available]](https://www.gutenberg.org/images/cover.jpg)
Preface.
CHAPTER I. Useful or Harmful?
CHAPTER II. The Structure of the Bird.
CHAPTER III. WORKERS ON THE GROUND. - The Barn Owl: White or Church Owl. (Strix Flammea.)
CHAPTER IV. IN THE AIR AND ON THE TREES. - The Swallow. (Hirundo rustica.)
CHAPTER V. SUMMER WORKERS. - The Wryneck. (Iynx torquilla.)
CHAPTER VI. WORKERS ALL THE YEAR ROUND. - The House Sparrow. (Passer domesticus.)
CHAPTER VII. SOME WILDFOWL. - The Lapwing. (Vanéllus vulgáris.)
CHAPTER VIII. SOME OF THE FALCONIDÆ. - The Golden Eagle. (Aquila chrysáëtus.)
A practical guide for anyone who works the land, this volume surveys the many ways birds affect farms, orchards and gardens. Drawing on extensive field data from Hungary, it explains which species help control pests, spread seeds or pollinate crops, and which can damage grain, fruits or young trees. Clear, illustrated identification keys let even casual observers spot the differences in plumage and shape without needing a scientific background.
Written with both the seasoned farmer and the curious naturalist in mind, the book balances detailed observations with easy‑to‑read explanations. It highlights the seasonal habits of familiar birds—from sparrows and swallows to owls and raptors—showing how their roles change through the year. The author also offers sensible advice on protecting beneficial species while managing those that cause trouble, making it a valuable reference for sustainable countryside stewardship.
Language
en
Duration
~7 hours (424K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images available at The Internet Archive)
Release date
2016-03-25
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1835–1914
A restless, wide-ranging mind helped shape Hungarian natural history, moving easily between science, field observation, writing, and public life. Best known for his work on birds, spiders, and fishes, he brought curiosity about the natural world to a broad audience.
View all books1841–1922
A Victorian writer and nature enthusiast, she published widely on the countryside, birds, and far-off places, bringing a lively curiosity to everything from local wildlife to Hawaiian history. Her work reflects a mix of observation, storytelling, and a strong feel for the natural world.
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