Ornithological Exhibition.

Yesterday afternoon there began in the University Museum a public exhibition of birds that is sure to attract much attention and considerable favorable comment. It is a collection of some 250 specimens collected and mounted by Mr. W. E. D. Scott. The birds were arranged in 50 neat cases about one of the rooms. Mr. Scott was in attendance to explain the purposes of the exhibition and the philosophy of the arrangements.

A single case contains two or more birds. The object of arrangement is to show the variance in color and plumage due to climate, age, sex, or to the freakishness of nature.

The birds are many of them of ordinary New England varieties, though others were shot in Southern States.

The arrangement has been made with the greatest care. For instance, the specimens to show variety in plumage by reason of difference in sex, are so placed that the first pair of birds show a difference only in shade. The difference is greater in the next pair, and so on, until decided discrepancies in color appear.

Perhaps the most interesting specimens are those where the freakishness of nature has had its play. Albino birds in considerable numbers are especially interesting.

The collection appeals to the veriest ignoramus as well as to the genuine scientist. It is a remarkably artistic bit of work and displays fine workmanship.

Dr. Alexander Agassiz expressed himself as greatly pleased with the exhibition and said it would be a decided addition to any museum. Mr. Webb said $100,000 could be spent to great advantage in making additions.

The exhibition is open to the public.