In a recent letter, Eugene Kridler wrote:

> Most , but not all, Mainland birders give no thought to endangerment of
> species, but are just interested in chalking up another bird on their
> weekly, monthly, yearly or life list and do nothing for the welfare of
> wildlife. Harsh words but true.

It is not clear whether this bold statement is from the article Mr. Kridler
cites, or if it a personal observation of his. In either case, I think it
calls for some evidence backing it up. In almost fifty years of birding, it
has constantly pleased me that, almost without exception, other birders have
shown great understanding of and respect for wildlife in particular, and
for nature in general. Sure, I've met some greedy people interested solely
in their lists, but happily they've been a minuscule percentage of the
birders I've come to know.

As a "Mainland birder" I resent being characterized as thoughtless, greedy,
and doing nothing for the welfare of wildlife, whether it be in Hawaii or
anywhere else. Perhaps the author ought to stick to writing about that
which bears some resemblance to fact.

David Chelimer
Seattle
chelimer at earthlink.net