b'43 \n\n\n\n\nt \n\n\n\nMile-End Spool Cotton \n\nis pronouncetl by Seamstress and Dressmaker ;i \nperfect thread. They consider it the best because \nof its great strength, ekisticity, smoothness, and \nfreedom from knots. liT colors this justly celebrated \nthread has always led, ha\\\'ing received the Only \nFirst Premium at the Centennial Exposidon ; and \nsince that time it ha;> made enormous strides in colors \nand dyeing. Ladies can match any shade of Dress \nGoods if they ask for Clark\'s Milk-Eni> spool \ncotton, and note the name on white bottom label. \n\nThe White Cotton is on Black SjK)o1s. \n\n\n\nTHE \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S \n\n\n\nBOOK OF \n\n\n\nO^LG-IE BII^/IDS: \n\n\n\nTheir diseases and remedies ; with instructions for \n. keeping them in constant health am \n\n\n\n\nPublished for Gratuitous Distribution, \n\n, BY THE \n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY, \n\n237 South Eighth Street, \n\nPHILADELPHIA. \n\n1883. \n\n\n\n5^- \n\n\n\n\n\n\nEntered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1883, by ^ \n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY, \nI THE Ofkice of the LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS, at Washington, D. 0. \n\n\n\nBIRDS SENT WITH PERFECT SAFETY, \nBY EXPRESS. \n\n\n\n\'\')\'. \nJ \n\n\n\nWe have fitted up at 237 South Eighth Street, \nPhiladelphia, probably the best stocked and largest \nbird store in America. \n\nWe do our own importing ; and have constantly \non hand all kinds of birds, cages, fine bred dogs, \naquarium requisites, etc. \n\nBy our improved mode of shipping, all kinds of \nbirds can be sent by express with perfect safety to \nany part of the United States. \n\nAt the end of each article will be found the prices \nthat good specimens of the variety of bird described, \nare worth at the date of publishing. It is better, \nhowever, before sending the money, to write regard- \ning the bird wanted ; as prices constantly fluctuate, \nand the current rate may be more or less than the \nquoted figures. \n\nAt the end of the book will be found a price list of \ncages and all the many things necessary for the \nproper care and comfort of birds. \n\n\n\nINTRODUCTION. \n\n\n\nThe information concerning the proper manage- \nment of cage birds has hitherto been confined to a \nfew costly works, which are only available to the \nwealthy; the instructions contained in books of a \nmoderate price being of such a worthless character, \nas to lead only to the most unsatisfactory and often \nthe most disastrous results. \n\nIn the following pages the inquirer may depend \nupon finding simple, sound, and practical information \nupon every subject connected with the care of all \nkinds of cage birds, written by one who has made \nthe subject a life-study. \n\nThe expense of publishing has been lightened by \nthe consciousness that many a cage will henceforth \ncontain \xe2\x80\x94 in the place of a moping, unclean, diseased \ntenant \xe2\x80\x94 a merry creature, happy, and ever eager to \ntestify to its keeper in its own musical way, the most \n\n\n\nunbounded gratitude. And we are equally certain \nthat, if the little prisoners were themselves able they \nwould return us their thanks. \n\nLet us ever bear in mind that with the custody of \nthe little creatures, we also take the responsibility of \ntheir comfortable existence, and if we evade ihat trust \nwe commit a crime. Their wants begin with their \ncaptivity, and they cannot in their artificial state of \nexistence assist themselves. \n\nNow, as ignorance of the law is no excuse for illegal \nbehavior, so ignorance of the proper management of \ncage pets will be no excuse, should they pine and die \non our hands, especially when the perusal of this little \nbook which costs nothing, will inform all of the \nproper management and care of cage birds. \nPhiladelphia, January i, i88j. \n\n\n\nSEED-EATING BIRDS. \n\n\n\nTo this class belong all birds that live exclusively on \nseeds. Different species require different seed, but the \ngeneral management is the same. Canary seed forms the \nstaple diet of nearly all varieties, and is grown principally \nin Egypt, Turkey, Sicily, and Spain. It is of as many grades \nand qualities as wheat, and here arises the reason of the \nnon-success of most people with cage birds. They go to an \napothecary shop, a grocery store, or a bird establishment, \nand ask for canary seed. Without examination they take \nwhat is given them ; which, in nine cases out often, is Smyrna, \na variety of canary seed that is as hard and almost as indi- \ngestible as flint; is full of dust, and seeds of injurious weeds; \nand is often old and rancid. Consequently, the bird soon \nbecomes dull, breathes with difficulty, and lingers on for \nmonths a songless ball of feathers, until finally death ends \nits miserable existence. \n\nThe only canary seed that should be given to a bird is that \ngrown in Spain and Sicily. It is larger and of brighter color \nthan the inferior grades, and is easily cracked. Even this \nmust be selected with much care, as sometimes on the \njourney across the Atlantic the bags get wet with salt water \nand the seed becomes worthless ; as it also does if not \nproperly cleansed from dust ; or when more than a year old. \n\nThe package seed with which the country is flooded con- \nsists of Smyrna canary seed or the cheap grades of Spanish, \nmixed with American rape and millet seed, and is sure death \nto birds fed upon it for a length of time. The seed sold \nat most bird stores is no better. Many of the brands con- \ntain hemp seed, which is very injurious to canaries and many \nother varieties of cage birds, and should be fed but sparingly \nto all species ; for being very fattening and heating, it ruins \nthe digestive ot-gans and spoils the voice ; moreover all seed- \neating birds are inordinately fond of this seductive poison \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nand will scarcely eat any other seed as long as they can get \nhemp. \n\nWe have made the proper diet and care \nof cage birds a life-study and our package \ngoods, it is believed, contain the only correct \nfoods for all species of birds, that have ever \nbeen placed on the American market. \n\nOur Mixed Seed consists of a combination \nof seeds that is best adapted to nearly all \nspecies of seed-eating birds. The mixture \nis : four parts, best quality Sicily canary, care- \nfully cleaned and selected, and always the \ncrop of the current year; three parts, sweet \nGerman summer rape ; two parts, India mil- \nlet ; and one part, Turkish maw seed. It can be had at almost \nevery first-class drug store throughout the United States. \nThe price is lo cents for pint, and 20 cents for \nquart packages. Be sure to see that the label \nis the same as shown in the engraving, and \nas you value the life and song of your birds \naccept no substitute. \n\nOne dozen of quart packages will be sent \nanywhere by express, prepaid, on recipt of \nI2.40. \n\nWe also put up the Sicily Canary Seed in \nthe same size packages as the Mixed Seed ; \nit is sold at the same prices. \n\nAll birds need gravel strewn on the bot- \ntom of the cage daily, or every other day at \n\nEither Red or Silver Gravel may be used \nbut we advise the former, as birds are very \nfond of it, and it helps to digest the food. \nSilver Gravel, although cleaner in the cage, is \nnot eaten so readily, while, being sharp and \nglass-like in its nature, sometimes causes \nthe death of the bird that swallows it, by \ncutting through the craw. \n\nWe box both kinds, the price for each \nbeing 10 cents for the quart, and 5 cents for \nthe pint size. We will ship by express, but \ncannot prepay expressage, unless seed is \nordered at the same time. \nA piece of Cuttle-Fish Bone should be kept constantly \n\n\n\n\nthe longest. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\n\nin the cage of all seed-eating birds, as they sharpen their \nbills upon it and also occasionally eat it, and being \nslightly salt in its nature, it is very benefi- \ncial. Every owner of a bird knows what a \ntroublesome thing it is to keep a cuttle- \nbone between the bars of \na cage, and that the holders \nthat are sold are very un- \nsatisfactory fastenings. We \nhave patented a combined \ncuttle bone and holder, the \nsimplicity of which is shown \nby the engraving. The entire \nsurface of the bone is acces- \nsible to the bird, and it is \nheld firmly in position until every particle of \nfriable matter is gone. It is sold at 5 cents \nfor a large selected bone and holder, and it \ncan be had of druggists, or will be mailed \non receipt of price. \nThe canary breeders of the Hartz Mountains of Germany \nuse a paste to keep their birds in constant health and song, \nand to cure nearly all diseases, the ingredients of which are \n\na secret to all but a few of the \nBiKo MAJNJNA. peasauts. Recently we came into \n\npossession of the recipe, and now \nmanufacture the paste, having \nchristened it "Bird Manna." It is \nput up in a little metal case (se- \ncured by letters patent)^ which \nfasten to the cage wires within \n. 1 ,j ., reach of the bird. Although it has \nShowing both sides, not been on the market a year, we \nhave thousands of testimonials of its curing nearly all the \ndiseases that cage birds are subject to, and causing birds to \nsing that have been silent for a long period. \n\nIf given to a bird during the season of shedding feathers, \nit will in most cases carry the little musician through this \ncritical period without losS of song. If used according to \ndirections, one Manna will last a bird many weeks. It can \nbe had of druggists or will be sent by mail for 15 cents. \n\n\n\n\nTO \n\n\n\nBlkl) I\'TJOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nSOFT-BILLED BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nTo this class belong all birds that live on a varied diet of \nseeds, berries, and insects. They are more delicate in con- \nfinement than sefed-eating birds, but are finer and sweeter \nsongsters, and well repay the extra care and trouble. \n\nTheir diet should consist principally of Prepared Mock- \ning Bird Food, but care should be taken to see that only \nour food is used, nearly all other being cheaply \nmade and not fit for birds to eat; causing \nvertigo, blindness, undue fatness, and in many in- \nstances death. Here is the recipe from which \nmost of the widely-sold foods are made : \n\nRoasted beef pluck, musty pilot-biscuit, corn \nmeal, ground hemp seed, pulverized sugar made \nmoist with lard. \n\nThe ingredients of prepared food for soft-billed \nbirds have always been kept a profound secret \nby professional bird fanciers ; and it cost us I250 \nto procure the above recipe from a prominent \nNew York manufacturer of bird foods. After we learned it \nwe found, as we had before suspicioned, that it was not only \nworthless but positively injurious. But it gave us a basis to \nwork on, and after several years\' experiment we produced \na food the ingredients of which are as follows, only the \nproper proportions being reserved : \n\nRoasted beef heart, toasted wheat bread, and best \nquality maw meal ; ant eggs, dried sweet potatoes, pea meal, \nand dried currants; the whole made moist with melted beef \nsuet. \n\nThis food is put up in jars holding nearly a pound, and \nsold by druggists for 35 cents. One dozen jars will be sent \nanywhere, expressage prepaid, for I4.20. Or dry, to which \nthe buyer can add the melted suet or lard to make it moist \nas needed, four pounds for $1.00. \n\nThe principal thing needed to keep soft-billed birds in \nconstant health and song is, first, a good prepared lood as a \nbasis, and then variety. The food should be given plain \none day; one part, grated carrot (squeezed dry), to three \nparts, prepared food the next; one part, mashed white pota- \ntoes on another ; and occasionally one part, grated sweet \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. II \n\napple, and three parts prepared food ; and so on, varying \nthe diet as much as possible. \n\nBoiled sweet potato is good for them, also boiled milk \nand ground toasted bread; and a few ant eggs for a change. \n\nEvery owner of a soft-billed bird should have a jar of \nmeal worms, and give one or two to his bird every week. \nNothing tames a bird so effectually, and in a very short time \nhe will learn to take them from your fingers. They are \neasily bred by filling an earthen jar about three-quarters \nfull with bits of old leather and bran. Put a hundred or \nmore meal worms in the jar and tie a woolen cloth over the \nmouth. The cloth must be occasionally wet with water. \nMeal worms propagate very rapidly, and at the end of three \nmonths there will be thousands. These worms will be \nfound under old boards in a pigeon loft or chicken coop, \nin the meal chest of a barn, or among the lumber of a grist \nmill. We sell them for 25 cents per hundred. \n\nShredded lean meat, flies, worms, and spiders are relished \nby all soft-billed birds, and should be given to them occa- \nsionally. \n\nNearly all birds are fond of bathing, and a dish of water \nshould be placed in the cage at least three times a week ; in \ncold weather it is best to take the chill off the water. When \na bird will not go into the bath, dip a wisp-broom in water \nand flirt it over him. \n\n\n\nDISEASES OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nAlmost all the diseases to which cage birds are subject, \narise from improper management. If duly fed on the correct \nfoods, their cages regularly cleaned and kept in good air, \ndisease will seldom make its appearance. \n\nInferior diet, whether seed or prepared food, is the cause \nof almost all diseases; but colds are another prolific source. \nHow frequently is a bird hung up close to the top corner of \na window, with the sash down a foot, and a strong draught \nof air flowing upon it. Or placed in a room which is warm \nduring the day and cold at night. In these and similar \nways many fine birds are killed by taking cold. \n\nDo not give your bird lump sugar or other delicacies. He \n\n\n\n12 BIRD P\'OOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n^^^ \n\n\nBITTERS \n\n\n1 \n\n\n\xc2\xae\xc2\xae\xc2\xae \n\n\nHii \n\n\n\n\nI \n\n\n\nwill eat them greedily enough, but they will endanger his \nhealth or ruin his song. \n\nWhen a bird is in good health, his feathers are sleek and \nsmooth, adhering close to his body. Whenever you perceive \nhim sitting dull and bunchy, something is out \nof order. \n\nFirst, consider if the moulting season is ap- \nproaching ; if anything has frightened him ; if \nhe has been hung in a draught of air ; see if he \ncan get at his water and food, and that both \nare sweet. If none of these is the cause, then \ncompare his symptoms with those printed \nbelow, and procure a bottle of Bird Bitters \nfrom your druggist, and treat him according \nto the directions wrapped around the bottle. \nIf the patient is a seed-eating bird, get him a \nBixd Manna to use in connection with the liquid. \n\nAsthma. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms : Short breath ; opening of beak as \nif to gasp for air, and when frightened to keep it open a long \ntime ; and puffing out feathers until the bird has the appear- \nance of a ball. \n\nBare Places on the Head should be rubbed with a \nsalve made of fresh butter and sulphur. \n\nBloating. \xe2\x80\x94 The skin on one part, or even the whole \nbody, swells to such a degree that it is stretched like a \ndrum. Pierce with a needle and the air in it will escape. \n\nBroken Legs or Wings should be left to nature to heal. \nTake all perches out of the cage and put soft flannel in the \nbottom. \n\nCatarrh or Cold. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms: Ruffling of the feathers; \nnostrils stopped up ; tongue hardened by inflammation ; \nbeak often open and yellow at base. \n\nChronic Sneezing. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms : A constant effort to \nrelieve an accumulation of matter in the nostrils. \n\nConstipation, \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms : Constant and unsuccessful \neflforts to evacuate, and puffing out of the feathers. \n\nConsumption. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms : Gradual wasting away, loss \nof appetite, and cessation of song. If taken in the hand it \nwill appear as light as a feather. \n\nDiARRHCEA. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms: The evacuation frequent and \nwatery, which very soon causes the extreme weakening of \nthe bird. \nDislocation of a Joint may be reduced by gently \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. I3 \n\nstretching the Hmb and pushing the joint in place, and if \ndone before inflammation sets in the cure is complete. \n\nFits. \xe2\x80\x94 This is a disease that must be treated at once or \nthe bird dies. Pull out one of the smaller tail feathers, cut \none of the nails so as to cause it to bleed, and as a last resort \nplunge the bird into cold water. Use the Bird Bitters \naccording to directions to prevent a recurrence. \n\nInflammation of the Bowels. \xe2\x80\x94 Symptoms : Abdomen \nswollen and covered with red veins ; intestines red and \nswollen ; extreme emaciation, ruffling of feathers, and \nconstant sitting with head under the wing. \n\nLong Claws, when they impede the movements of the \nbird, should be cut. This is a delicate operation ; the claw \nshould be held in front of a light so that the veins of the \nnail can be seen and avoided. Use a sharp pair of scissors. \n\nLoss OF Appetite is quickly cured by Bird Bitters or \nBird Manna. \n\nLoss OF Song, if the bird is otherwise healthy, can be \nrestored by Bird Bitters or Bird Manna. \n\nMoulting season begins with most birds about the middle \nof September and lasts for six weeks. During this period \nbirds usually stop singing, as the growth of new feathers \nmakes such a demand upon their system as to render them \nweak and out of spirits. If a Bird Manna is kept in the cage \nof a seed-eating bird nine out often birds will not stop sing- \ning during the entire moulting season. Bird Bitters is most \nexcellent to use as a tonic at this critical period for both \nsoft-billed and seed-eating birds. A few drops put daily in \nthe drinking water will tone them up wonderfully. \n\nPairing Fever usually attacks birds in the spring, about \nthe time the wild birds are mating. They cease to sing and \nbecome melancholy. A generous diet should be adopted \nand the cage placed in a window where the bird can look \nupon a cheerful scene. \n\nPip. \xe2\x80\x94 Syinptoins : Roughness of the feathers, drooping oi \nthe tail ; a tiny white bladder under the feathers, near the \nvent. \n\nRed Mites. \xe2\x80\x94 If your bird looks lean and out of condition, \nif he is restless \xe2\x80\x94 especially at night \xe2\x80\x94 and is continually \npecking himself, he is infested with mites. Throw a white \ncloth over his cage at night, and in the morning you will find \nit covered with tiny red insects. We put up a powder that \nis perfectly harmless to the birds, but will effectually destroy \n\n\n\n14 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nthe vermin. It is called Mite Ex terminator ^ and \nI is sold at 25 cents per package, and can be had of \ndruggists or will be sent by mail. Take the bird \nI gently in your hand, rub the powder over his \nI body, especially under the wings, and at the base \nI of the tail. Before replacing him, put some of the \npowder in a saucer, drop a coal of fire on it, and \nI place it in the bottom of the cage, covering the \nI latter with a cloth to keep the smoke in, and let \n\xe2\x84\xa2 it remain for a couple of hours. This will kill all \n~\' the vermin that are hidden in the cavities of the \ncage. \n\nScales on the Legs can be cured by anointing with a \nsalve of sulphur and lard for a week, and then removing \ncarefully with the finger nail. \n\nShedding Feathers Out of Season can be stopped \nby giving Bird Bitters or Bird Manna. \n\nSore Eyes should be washed with warm water in which \nwhite hellebore is infused. \n\nSore Feet arise from dirt or from fine fibres of wool, \ncotton or silk getting round them and cutting to the bone. \nRemove the offending substances, clean the perches or bot- \ntom of the cage, and wash the feet carefully in lukewarm \nwater, and anoint with cosmoline. \n\nSweating. \xe2\x80\x94 This is a disease peculiar only to hen birds, \nand attacks them while sitting on their eggs. The belly \nfeathers and the eggs are saturated with perspiration. \n\nSwollen and Sore Legs should be bathed with diluted \ntincture of arnica. \n\nTumors should be opened with a sharp knife and the \nmatter pressed out ; putting sweet oil on the place. \n\nUlcers are cured by touching them with a red-hot knit- \nting needle, and then anointing with cosmolme. Ulcers in \nthe throat should be touched with a feather dipped in a \nmixture of honey and alum. \n\nUnnatural Fatness is caused in seed-eating birds by \ntoo rich food ; reduce the quantity given daily, that is put \nthe patient on short allowance until he gets into proper \nshape again. With soft-billed birds, mix boiled turnips \nwith their food and dry ant-eggs in the drinking water. \n\nVertigo or Giddiness. \xe2\x80\x94 This is really a habit and not a \ndisease, and is caused by the birds in their endeavors to \nlook up, to turn their head and neck so far around as to \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n15 \n\n\n\ncause them to fall off the perch. By simply throwing a dark \ncloth over the top of the cage a cure is effected. \n\nYellow Gall is a small ulcer that forms on the head \nnear the eyes or bill. While the pimple is very minute it \ncan be cured with Bird Bitters or Bird Manna. If it is large \nwhen discovered it should be cut off with a sharp knife and \nthe wound anointed with cosmoline. \n\nBird Manna can be had of druggist, or will be sent by \nmail for 15 cents. Bird Bitters costs 25 cents per bottle, and \nif it cannot be had of your druggist, the solid ingredients \nwill be sent by mail on receipt of price, only the addition of \nwater being needed. \n\n\n\nTHE CANARY. \n\n\n\n\nFRENCH CANARY. \n\n\n\nGERMAN CANARY. \n\n\n\nMore than three hundred years ago a ship sailing from \nthe Canary Islands, laden with merchandise, and having on \nboard a few canaries, was wrecked on the coast of Italy. \nThe birds escaped to the timbered lands near the shore, \nwhere they bred freely, and would have become naturalized \nhad not the sweetness of their song attracted the natives, \nwho were possessed of so strong a desire to obtain them \n\n\n\ni6 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nthat all were soon captured. The progeny of these birds \nspread rapidly over all Europe. \n\nThe canary is now bred principally in Germany, among \nthe Hartz Mountains of Hanover, where the peasant\'s chief \n\nmeans of subsistence is the breed- \ning of these feathered musicians \nfor the markets of the world. \nWhile the United States receives \nits supply mostly from this local- \nity, some are imported from Eng- \nland, France, Belgium, and Hol- \nland. \n\nThe German peasants manu- \nfacture small wooden cages from \nthe fir wood which grows upon \nthe mountain sides, and every \nbird has a separate cage made \nentirely of wood ; pegs instead oi \nTOPKNOT CANARY. nails are used to fasten them to- \ngether. In these little cages the birds are shipped to \nAmerica, and are kept in their narrow quarters until bought \nto make American homes cheerful with their merry music. \nIt is estimated that about one hundred thousand canaries are \nimported annually into America. \nDuring the passage across the \nocean they require careful attention \nin feeding and watering. The \ncages are arranged in divisions, so \nas to allow the attendant lo pass be- \ntween them to feed the birds and \nclean the cages. If cleanliness is \nneglected sickness is engendered, \nand many birds perish in conse- \nquence. \n\nThe male canary is the songster. \nThe female scarcely ever sings, \nand when she does her notes are \nweak. The male has a short, stout \nbeak and a flat head, and is wide \nbetween the eyes, the wider the \nbetter. The crown of the head of \nthe female is more round than that of the male. \nA fallacy quite prevalent in some parts of the country is, \n\n\n\n\nBELGIAN CANABY. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n17 \n\n\n\nthat dark-colored canaries are the strongest birds and tlie \nbest singers. Color in canaries has no more to do with \ntheir singing qualities than complexion has with the voice \nof prima donnas. \n\nIn selecting a canary it should be borne in mind that the \nfeet and legs of young birds are smooth and glossy, and the \ntoe-nails are short; whereas, old birds have rough and \nscaly feet, with long toe-nails. \n\nIn Europe great attention is paid to improving the song \nof canaries. To attain this result two modes are practiced. \nA large cage is constructed with close partitions which \neffectually exclude the view \nfrom each other; a superior \nsinging bird, a nightingale or \nskylark, is placed within hear- \ning, but out of sight of the cana- \nries, who learn to imitate the \nmelodious notes they hear. In \nsix months they will have \nacquired perfection, when they \nare removed to separate \ncages. The other method is, \nwhen the young birds first try \nto sing they are separated from \nthe parent bird, and placed \nin a room where just light \nenough is admitted to enable \nthem to see to eat. Then a musi- \ncal instrument called a bird \norgan is played for an hour \neach day in the hearing of the young bird. If undisturbed, \nthey become attentive listeners, and by practicing the song, \nare soon able to reproduce it perfectly. \n\nThese are known as Andi^asberg Rollers, and the finest \nof them have no "chop" notes and are proficient in the \nwater roll, the bell, and the flute notes. \n\nAlthough there are over thirty varieties of canaries known \nin Europe, not over a half-dozen are bred here. \n\nThe Ger:man Canary is the finest songster, and is the \none most frequently imported to this country. The best \ncome from the Black Forest of Germany. \n\nThe Belgian Canary, as represented in the cut, has \nvery high shoulders, and ruffled feathers on the breast. \n\n\n\n\nLANCASHIRE COPPY. \n\n\n\ni8 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nIt is a poor songster, and is bred by bird fanciers for \nits oddity. The finest, or rather what the ordinary observer \nwould call the ugliest of them, sometimes sell as high as \none hundred dollars per pair. \n\nThe French Canary in many respects resembles the \nBelgian, but it has not the high shoulders, and is not so long \nor so valuable. It is not a fine singer. \n\nThe Cinnamon Canary, ias the name implies, is of the \ncolor of cinnamon ; but in all other respects it resembles the \nGerman bird. It is a fine warbler. \n\nThe Lizard Canary, so named from a fancied resem- \nblance of its green plumage spotted with yellow, to the \ncolor of a lizard, is held in high estimation by fanciers. It is \nsometimes a fine songster. \n\nThe Spangled Canary has much green in its color, \nwith a spot of yellow or white color on its head, called a \n\ncap, and little spots \nof the color scattered \nover the rest of the \nbody. \n\nThe London Fan- \ncy Canary, as its \nname implies, is a \nvariety much cultiva- \nted in that metropo- \nlis, where there has \nbeen a society for \nthe LONDON FANCY CANARY. promoting the im- \nprovement of these birds for nearly a century. The wings \nand tail are dark in color, and the rest of the body of a deep \nyellow. \n\nThe Lancashire Coppy is one of the largest of canaries, \nand has a dark cap or crown ol^feathers on the head, while \nthe rest of him is yellow. \n\n\n\n\nThe above embraces almost all the varieties that are \nbrought to this country. There is, however, a red variety \nthat is occasionally seen, but this is only a common German \ncanary whose plumage has been colored by his being fed, \njust before and during the moulting season, upon food (bread \nand milk, generally), highly seasoned with cayenne pepper. \n\nThe colors of canaries by which they are known to bird \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n19 \n\n\n\nfanciers are as follows : Mealy, a mixture of white and pale \nyellow; sometimes called Buff. Jonque or Jonquil, a rich \nyellow. Cinnamon or Dove, a soft reddish gray-brown, \nvery difficult to describe. Green, a dark gray, approaching \na green. Fied or Mottled, mixtures of the foregoing colors* \n\n\n\nBREEDING CANARIES. \n\n\n\n\nWALNUT BREEDING CAGE. \n\nTwo of the best styles of breeding cages we have illus- \ntrated. One is made of walnut and iron wire, and is suitably \narranged for exercise, nesting, etc. It comes already fur- \nnished with willow nests, deer hair, etc. The price, com- \nplete, is I1.25. The other is made entirely of brass, and has \na wire nest ; it will cost ^5.50. \n\nThe cage should be hung at least a foot above the head, \nand should occupy a southerly aspect, if possible, and not \nbe moved until the breeding season is over. \n\nCanaries may be mated during the months of February, \nMarch, or April. Before placing the male in the breeding- \ncage with the female, he should be hung in another cage \nopposite, and in sight of the female. When he sings and \ncalls to her, and she returns his call, then they can be placed \ntogether; and though at first they may quarrel, it will only \n\n\n\n20 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nbe of short duration. \n\n\n\n\nBRASS BREEDING CAGE. \n\nfill decrease in the number of \ndeaths will be noticed. \n\nTo produce handsome yellow \nbirds, the male should be a pale \nyellow, and the female -a deep \nyellow, bird, A clear yellow \nmale, mated with a very deep \ngreen hen, will usually have \nhandsome mottled young. A \nvery deep yellow male, mated \nwith a very deep green or brown \nhen, often produce the highly \nprized Cinnamon bird. \n\nNever allow two crested birds \nto pair, as their progeny are \nlikely to be bald or malformed \nabout the head. \n\nSome canaries will never \nmate ; nothing will reconcile \nthem. In this event another \nhen should be tried, until one \n\n\n\nWhen the male begins to feed her, you \nmay be sure that all is right. \n\nThere should always be \nplaced in the mating-cage \na piece of cuttle-bone for \nthe formation of shell, or \nthe hen may lay soft-shell \neggs. There is also re- \nquired deer\'s or cow\'s hair \nfor the construction of the \nnest. To the seed diet of \nthe mated birds, should be \nadded hard-boiled egg and \ncracker, rolled fine; a little \neach day. \n\nIf the birds have access \nto Bird Manna, they will \nfeed it to their nestlings, \nand a more rapid growth \nwill result, and a wonder- \n\n\n\n\nSTYLE NO, I, \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n21 \n\n\n\nis found that is disposed to assume the responsibihty of \nrearing a family. \n\nA female canary will mate with several varieties of birds, \nand their offspring are called mules. The mules from some \nof these crosses are fine singers, and command high prices, \non account of their beauty and song. Among the varieties \nof birds which will mate with a female canary may be men- \ntioned the linnet, chaffinch, bullfinch, siskin, redpole, and \nchaffinch. \n\nAfter having been mated about a week, the hen will begin \nto lay one egg each day, until from four to six eggs are laid ; \nupon these she will sit from fourteen to sixteen days, when \nthe eggs should hatch, and in the order in which they were \nlaid. Never disturb the eggs, or thej^ may not hatch. Dur- \ning the period of incubation, the male relieves the female by \nsitting on the nest, a few hours each day. Should either of \nthem become addicted to the vice of breaking the eggs, they \nshould be bountifully \nfed with egg and \nbread, which should \nbe constantly kept \nwithin their reach. \nShould they still per- \nsist, the eggs can be \nremoved as fast as \nlaid, and their places \nsupplied with eggs \nwhittled from chalk. \nWhen the hen ceases \nto lay, then return the \neggs, and all will go \nwell. \n\nThree days before \nthe hatching of the \nfirst egg, feed the \nbird in addition to \nher seed, half a hard-boiled egg grated, and mixed with \ncracker dust, and continue this food until the nestlings are \nold enough to take care of themselves. \n\nThe young birds when weaned from the old birds should \nbe placed in a cage entirely awa}^, otherwise fretfulness is \nencouraged, which it is well to avoid. A wire partition \nwill do for a day or so when they are first separated, so \n\n\n\n\nSTYLE NO. 2. \n\n\n\n22 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nthat the old birds can feed them through the wires. When \ncaging-off young birds give them at first grated egg \nand cracker. When they are about a month old, introduce \nseed in the cage in a separate pot or tin, with the view of \ngiving the birds an opportunity of finding out for what \n\nthe seed is intended. Gen- \nerally, when about six weeks \nold, the young Canaries begin \nto shell the seed, and at that \ntime the proportion of soft food \nmay be gradually diminished \nuntil the seed at length takes \nthe place of the egg and cracker; \nan increase of seed shells upon \nthe cage bottom will be a guide \nin reducing the quantity of soft \nfood. \n\nCanaries will breed famously \nif turned loose in a room ; and \nSTYLE NO \xe2\x80\xa2; where no single variety is kept \n\n* ^\' and no particular excellence \n\naimed at, there is no better plan, or one more adapted \nto furnish the largest amount of pleasure at the smallest \namount of trouble and expense. The birds have more \nscope for freedom of action in a room than in a cage. \n\nNo artificial heat is needed as canaries will stand almost \nany amount of cold, providing there is no draught. \n\nDo not mate them before turning them loose, but it is bet- \nter to have at least twice as many females as males. Each \nmale will pair with some particular hen and pay her special \nattention, at least till she is sitting, when the chances are he \nwill court some new flame ; but he will not neglect his first \nlove, and will continue to feed her on the nest, though, \nunder the circumstances, he will become general in his \nattentions. And it is strange how hens in an aviary will \nsometimes behave. I have seen two sitting on the edge of \nthe same nest feeding as assiduously as if each claimed the \nyoung ones for her own. \n\nBy all means introduce male linnets, and goldfinches, \neither males or hens. Hen linnets will breed in rooms only \nunder special treatment, and then very rarely ; but a hen \ngoldfinch will build, sit, hatch, and feed as well as a canary. \nThe produce will be linnet and canary mules, and goldfinch \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n23 \n\n\n\nand canary mules; and will in all probability be dark solid- \ncolored birds. The hens will be useless, but the males are \nexcellent songsters. \n\nRange some Christmas trees around the walls and in the \nmiddle of the room. If, in addition to these, you can get \nany old roots, or any such rough material, to place against \nor hang on the wall, you will find the birds will soon select \nthe snug corners and begin to build. Give a supply of \nmoss, soft hay, any bunch of fibrous roots you may meet \nwith, or similar material, with which they will build the \nfoundation of their nests ; and plenty of soft doe-hair. Add \nsome rabbit-down, with which they will put the finishing \ntouch to a nest. \n\nWhen the young birds are two or three weeks old, and \ncan eat alone, and sometimes before quitting the nest, the \nmales commence swelling out their throats and trying to \nwarble. The sexes may thus be distinguished, as the \nfemales seldom try to warble, and when they do it is always \nin a less marked degree than the males. \n\nIf it is desired to make very fine singers of the young \nmales ; as fine as the highly vaunted Andreasberg Rollers, \nthey should be put in small \nwire cages, separated from each \nother, covered entirely over \nwith coverings of muslin, so \nthat they can see no external \nobjects and yet have sufficient \nlight to feed by. These cages \nshould be arranged around the \nwalls of aroom, the only tenants \nof which-are fine singing birds, \nsuch as nightingales, linnets, \nskylarks, black caps, etc., and \none or two Andreasberg Rol- \nlers, or other trained canaries. \nThe young birds will acquire \nthe fine notes of the RoUers \nand in addition the notes of \nsome or all of the other birds. \n\n\n\n\nSTYLE NO. 4. \n\n\n\nOf course the longer they \nare kept at such a school the more proficient they will \nbecome. \n\nIf a young canary is hung in a darkened cage, out of \nhearing of the song of all other birds, and some simple air \n\n\n\n24 BIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nplayed to him on a flute, piano, or organ, three or four times \na day, he will readily pick up all or a portion of it, and add \nit to his repertoire of notes. \n\nThe best food for canaries is our Mixed Seed, and plenty \nof red gravel strewn on the bottom of the cage and \nrenewed daily. A cuttle bone should always be kept in the \ncage, and also a Bird Manna. A bit of chickweed, a slice \nof apple, and a ripe fig may be given occasionally, but only \nas a treat and not oftener than once a week. \n\nIf canaries are fed during the moulting season, on cracker \nand egg highly seasoned with cayenne pepper, their feathers \nwill assume a beautiful red tint, and remain that color until \nshed again. No harm is done by this high feeding to either \nsong or health. Great care should be taken in the selection \nof the pepper, as nearly all commercial red pepper is \nadulterated and is likely to kill the bird. We have pepper \nspecially ground for this purpose, and for 25 cents will send \nsufficient to last a bird during moulting, \n\nA brass cage is by far the best for a bird ; painted cages \nare injurious as the bird will peck the paint off\'. We illus- \ntrate several of the best styles of brass cages. They are made \nof the best quality of wire, and are warranted not to tarnish. \nStyle No. i, is a large round cage and is worth I1.50. Style \nNo. 2 is a square, solid brass cage, with plenty of room ; price, \n$2.50. Style No. 3 is a very elegant brass cage, made of the \nbest quality spring wire, which will not bend or break by \nfalling. Price, $3.50. Style No. 4 is the handsomest and \nbest brass cage made ; it has a crimped top, which adds \nmuch to its beauty ; price, $4.00. All the styles have white \nporcelain feed and water cups, brass end cedar perches, \nspring doors, and moveable tin bottom pans. \n\nGerman Canaries vary in prices, according to the \nseason. From October to April, they are worth, generally, \n12.50.^ At this price we will furnish one of our Night-Singing \ncanaries, which we guarantee not only to be a wonderffilly \nfine singer, but that it will sing by lamplight as well as dur- \ning the day. Female canaries are worth : American, 50c. ; \nImported, |i.oo. \n\nAndreasberg Rollers, that can give the bell and flute \nnotes, and the water roll, are worth I4.00, \n\nCinnamon Canaries, fine singers, 15.00. Females, $2.00. \n\nBelgian Canaries, either yellow, mealy, or mottled. \nMales, |;8.oo ; females, I5.00. High-class birds, higher. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n25 \n\n\n\nFrench Canaries, either yellow, mealy, or mottled; \nmales, I5.00 ; females, I3.00. High-class birds, higher. \n\nLondon Fancy Canaries, in fine plumage; males, I15; \nfemales, |io.oo. \n\nLancashire Coppies, the genuine birds, and not the \ncommon top-knot bird usually palmed off as such ; males, \n^25.00; females, I15.00. \n\nLizard Canaries, the genuine breed; males, I15.00; \nfemales, $10.00. \n\nSpangled Canaries, either gold or silver; males, $15; \nfemales. |io.oo. \n\nAmerican Bred Canaries, of German parentage, such \nas are now being generally sold at bird stores for the Hartz \nMountain birds; males, $1.75; females, 50c. \n\n\n\nTHE GOLDFINCH. \n\n\n\nIn Europe this bird ranks next to the canary as a popular \ncage bird, but in this country, as yet, he has not received \nthe attention he deserves. \n\nThe Goldfinch is possessed of an exceedingly sweet song, \ncombining a clear metallic ring with modulated power, \n\nmuch softer \nand sweeter \nthan the \ncanary\'s, and \nlinked to- \ngether by a \ncontinued \ntwittering, \nmaking the \nsong last for \na long time \nwithout \n\n\n\nin- \n\n\n\ntermission. \nIn the male \n\nbird the front \n\nof the head is blood red, and the same color, with an inter- \nvening ring of black surrounds the base of the beak. The \ncheeks and front of the throat are white, while the whole \nback is a ruddy brown. The pinion feathers are jet black, \n\n\n\n\n26 BIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\ntipped with white. There is also a golden stripe along each \npinion. The tail is black and forked. The female is \nnot as large as the male, and not so vividly red about the \nbeak ; nor is the black line that divides the red poll from the \nred beak so intense. The white of her cheeks is intermixed \nwith brown. Altogether, she is not bright and sparkling, \nand has not such bold, bright eyes as her mate. \n\nThe goldfinch is one of the most docile and intelligent of \nbirds. When properly instructed, it will draw up its food \nand water. It is taught this by means of a chain and pulley, \nfurnished with a soft, leather band, pierced with four holes, \nthrough which the wings and feet are passed ; the two ends \nmeeting under the belly, and sustained there by a ring, to \nwhich is fastened the chain, that supports a little tin bucket \ncontaining the seed or water. Whenever the Goldfinch \nwants either, he draws up the chain with its beak, fixing it \nat intervals with its foot, and thus obtains what he wishes ; \nbut if two buckets are suspended to a pully, raising one \nmakes the other descend, and it can only obtain seed and \nwater in turn. \n\nThe Goldfinch is of a restless disposition, continually \nhopping about and clinging to the wires of the cage, and \nrattling against them. \n\nWhen in the aviary it sometimes acts in a domineering \nmanner, driving the other birds from the seed ; but will \nseldom fight, although often showing ill-temper. \n\nGoldfinches will breed as quickly as canaries, in the \naviary or breeding cage ; they will also mate with canaries. \nTo produce the best results, an active male should be \nplaced with a yellow hen canary about the first of March. \nThe male offspring will be magnificent songsters, and of \nbeautiful plumage. \n\nThe Goldfinch thrives best on our mixed seed, with occa- \nsionally a cupful of maw seed, of which it is very fond. \nThey should be kept in a square cage, similar to a canary\'s. \nThey are very fond of gravel, which should be plentifully \nstrewn in the bottom of the cage. \n\nA male Goldfinch is worth ^1-50 ; when in full song from \n$2.00 to I5.00; a female, |i. 25. \n\nThe price of a Goldfinch mule, in song, is $8.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE LINNET. \n\n\n\n27 \n\n\n\nThe Linnet is one of the nicest of the finch family. He is \nmore grateful for kindness, more solicitous of pleasing, than \nalmost any other cage bird. \n\nDuring the first year of his life, the Linnet is called a Gray \nLinnet, from the \ncolor of his plum- \nage. After the \nsecond moult, the \nred of the breast \nblending with the \namber edges of the \nfeathers, produces \na golden hue, and \nthe bird is then \nknown as a Yellow \nLinnet. At the end \nof the third moult, \nthe breast be- \ncomes a bright \ncarmine, and the \nflanks the color of \niron rust, and it is known as the Rose Linnet. \n\nGray, yellow, or red, his music will be the same ; even \nsickness does not end his exquisite piping ; and the older \nhe grows the better he sings. \n\nThe song of the Linnet consists of a number of sentences \nor *\'jerks," as they are called, and each one distinct from \nthe other, while the wonderful variety of notes is astounding. \n\nHe sings both summer and winter, except during the \ntime of shedding feathers. \n\nA male Linnet will mate with a female canary, and the \noffspring will resemble in color, a gray canary, but the song \nof the mules will be very fine, and they are highly prized on \nthat account. \n\nLinnets should be kept in a square cage, as in it they are \nless subject to giddiness than in round cages. They require \nthe same food and management as canaries. \n\nA young Linnet just beginning to sing is worth ^1.50, and \nwhen in full song, I5.00. A Linnet mule, in full song, |io.oo \nto ^25.00. \n\n\n\n\n28 BIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE SISKIN. \n\n\n\n\nThe Siskin resembles the Goldfinch in shape, although \na trifle smaller; the bill is also sharp and pointed. The \ngeneral color of the plumage of this bird is a yellowish-green \n\non the upper \nparts of the \nbody, and yel- \nlowish-white \nbeneath. The \nsexes of the Sis- \nkin are quite \neasily distin- \nguished, the \nmale bird being \nbrighter, and \nhaving a black \ntop to his head; \nwhereas the \nhead o ithe fe- \nmale is grayish, the body-coloring duller, and the breast \nspotted. The males increase in brightness of color as they \ngrow older. \n\nThey are quiet little birds, but happy and contented, and \nwith a little attention become very tame. They sing con- \ntinually in a low, plaintive twitter of much sweetness. \nTheir contented manner and familiar ways cause them to \nbecome general favorites of the household into which they \nare admitted. \n\nThe male Siskin is one of the best mimics among the \nsmall bird. He will readily catch the notes of all the birds \nhe hears and mix them up in the drollest fashion, when \nuttering them as his own. \n\nSiskins require the same general treatment as canaries, \nand should be kept in the same kind of cage. They will \ninterbreed with canaries, but the mules are neither of hand- \nsome plumage nor fine singers. \n\nA male Siskin, beginning to singj is worth $1.50 ; when in \nfull song, $5.00. \n\nSiskins are sometimes kept in tinned wire cages with \nwooden backs. The price of such a cage is 75c. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE MOCKING BIRD. \n\n\n\n29 \n\n\n\n\nWe should take especial pride in the mocking bird ; for it \nis a bird peculiar to the American continent. Its torrent of \nmimicry pours upon us the songs of a dozen different birds ; \nand many of the cries heard in the barnyard. This unique \nsongster unites in itself more excellencies than any other \nbird possesses. Spring, summer, and autumn, its harmoni- \nous and varied song thrills and holds spell-bound the \nlistener. The pipe of the canary ; the mellow whistle of the \ncardinal ; the wild song of the thrush ; the shrill scream of \nthe eagle ; the exquisite warble of the bluebird ; the mourn- \ning of the dove ; the cock\'s crow ; the hen\'s cackle ; the \ncry of the katydid ; the grunt of the pig ; and the infernal \nnoise of quarreling cats : \xe2\x80\x94 all this medley issues in rapid suc- \ncession from that master-mimic, the mocking bird ! No \nwonder that it is a general favorite. \n\nThe mocking bird is not showy in appearance ; but its \nwell-shaped form and lively and graceful motions make it \nan attractive household pet, apart from its song. It meas- \nures nine-and-a-half inches in length ; and an expanse of \nwings, thirteen inches. The upper part of the head, neck, \nand back is dark brownish-ash ; the wings and tail are \n\n\n\n30 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nnearly black ; the primary feathers are white, the first and \nsecond row of coverts tipped with white. The tail is cunei- \nform ; the two outer feathers are wholly white, the others, \nexcept the middle ones, tipped with white. The neck, \nbreast, and whole under parts, clouded white. The iris is \nof a yellowish cream color. The bill is black ; and the base \nof the lower mandible, whitish. The legs and feet are \nblack, and stoutly formed. \n\nThe male and female mocking bird are very similar in \nplumage; but they may be readily distinguished by \nnoticing the following differences : The white on the wings \nof the male bird extends over the whole nine primaries, or \nquill feathers, down to and well over the coverts ; these are \nalso white, though sometimes tipped with brown ; the white \nof the primaries extendmg equally on both vanes of the \nfeather. In the female the white is not so clear, and extends \nonly over seven or eight of the primaries ; and more on the \nfront than on the narrow vane of the feathers ; the black of \nthe wing is also less deep, being of a brownish shade. \n\nOccasionally males are met with that are wonderful song- \nsters, and yet are very poorly marked according to the \nstandard we have given ; but in buying young birds it is \nalways better to secure the best marked birds ; as they \nare sure to be males. \n\nTo rear the young of the mocking bird by hand successfully, \nregularity of feeding and cleanliness are of the greatest im- \nportance. To keep them growing steadily they should be fed \nvery often, and not much at a time. They should be fed long \nafter they no longer need assistance ; as that keeps them \nstrong, while rendering them more gentle and confiding. \n\nThe cage for a mocking bird should be large, and kept \nvery clean; and should be supplied with plenty of gravel. \n\nOne of the cheapest and most desirable styles of cages \nfor these birds is made of walnut, with polished iron \nwire. It is 24 inches high, but is in three lengths, as follows : \n22 inches long, $1.75 ; 28 inches long, $2.50 ; 30 inches long, \nI3.00. The cups for this cage cost 25 cents, extra. We \nillustrate a cage of brass wire, with black walnut base. It \nis also made in three sizes: 18 inches, $8.50 ; 22 inches, \n$13.00; 26 inches, $15.00, A bath dish for a mocking bird \nis worth 25 cents. \n\nThe bird must never be exposed to inclement weather ; \nbut should have the benefit of fresh air as much as possible ; \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n31 \n\n\n\nprotected, however, from the scorching rays of the sun by a \ncovering thrown over the cage. \n\nThe bill of fare best suited to the mocking bird will be \nfound on page 10, under the head of \'\'Soft-Billed Birds." \nThey are fond of boiled carrot or beet-root mashed and \nsqueezed dry. Boiled cabbage, cauliflower, and peas are \ngood for them ; also a very little roast meat minced, and \na little of the hard-boiled yolk of an egg. They like ripe \npears, elder-berries, currants, and cherries. A few ant\'s \neggs soaked and mixed with \nthe food is very beneficial. \nA little sweet apple grated \nup with the food gives it a \nfine flavor, and often re- \nstores the appetite when it \nis poor, during hot weather \nor when moulting. Our Pre- \npared Mocking Bird Food, \nmixed with one -quarter \ngrated carrot, is perhaps the \nbest for a steady diet. The \nmocking bird is omnivo- \nrous, feeding on berries, in- \nsects, and fruit. For this \nreason a supply of insects \nshould be gathered during \nthe proper season ; such as brass mocking bibd cage. \nflies, grasshoppers, spiders, and the like ; and put loosely in \na paper bag, and hung up to dry. When used in winter, \nthey should have boiling water poured over them, which \nwill soften them, and make them fully as palatable as if they \nwere still alive. Another dainty morsel is currants that \nhave been washed clean, soaked over night, and then wiped \nthoroughly dry. \n\nBut the richest of food is meal-worms. Six to ten worms \na month, are sufficient to make the bird lively. It is a good \nplan to raise a stock of these worms. The process is quite \nsimple, and has been fully explained on a previous page. \n\nNine-tenths of the ailments of the mocking-bird is caused \nby improper feeding, and the use of inferior prepared foods. \nGreen food given daily, grapes, meat from the table, sugar, \nand candy, are all bad for the bird. It needs a plain, but \nvaried diet, and to be fed and watered at the same time \n\n\n\n\n32 BIKD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nevery day. A bath should be given daily ; and the vessel \nremoved from the cage when the bird has bathed. During \nMay, often earlier, some mocking birds have the mating \nfever ; they grow melancholy, allow their feathers to become \nrough, cease to plume themselves before retiring, waste \naway, and die. In many cases they forget this inclmation \nfor freedom and a mate, by simply changing the cage; \nhanging it near a window, where their time will be taken up \nin watching new surroundings. Should the bird\'s feathers \nstand loosely all over, and he still seem healthy, give him \ncooling food only. Should the bird be dumpish and stupid, \na few spiders will sometimes cure him. Should he refuse to \neat, examine his tongue, and if a horny scale is seen upon it, \nthis must be removed with great care ; for if it is allowed to \nremain the bird will surely die. To remove this scale, hold \nthe bird on his back firmly with one hand, while with the \nfinger-nail of the other hand, gently peel it from the tongue, \nand anoint with honey and boxax. \n\nMites are a great annoyance to a bird, and should be got \nrid of by using our Mite Exterminator, according to direc- \ntions. \n\nFor blindess there is no remedy, for it is only a symptom \nof disease of the brain and that is always fatal ; it is almost \ninvariably caused by the use of inferior prepared food, in \nwhich there is an excess of hemp or maw meal. Baldness, \nor dropping of the head feathers, is generally fatal. It \nusually commences around the eyes, and the symptoms \npreceding its appearance are continued restlessness and \nrubbing of the parts on the perch or cage It may be treated \nwith flower of sulphur, rubbed up with a little water to the \nconsistence of paste, and applied twice a day to the affected \nparts. This will allay the itching, and if early applied, may \ncheck the disease. \n\nIn doctoring the sick bird, ascertain as nearly as possible \nwhat the com.plaint is, by comparing the symptoms with the \nprinted ones accompanying our Bird Bitters, and treat the \npatient according to the directions. \n\nNearly all Mocking Birds are bought when young by their \nowners, because old ones in perfect song, bring such high \nprices, even as much as I500 has been refused for a very \nfine bird. It should be born in mind when buying these \nyoungsters that birds taken from the nest and fed by hand \nare much superior to ones that are trapped after they leave \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n33 \n\n\n\nthe nest. The former become very tame, while the latter \nnearly always remain wild and flutter about the cage when \nit is approached. The farther ?outh the birds come from \nthe finer songsters they make. Young birds begin to arrive \nabout the latter part of August. From then until October \nist, we offer hand-fed Florida Mocking Birds, guaranteed \nmales, fs.co each ; trapped North Carolina I9irds, guaranteed \nmales, ,v.^.oo. IMockmg Birds just commencing to whistle, \nlio.oo. Birds in full song ^lo.oo to $50.00 according to their \nability. \n\n\n\nTHE CARDINAL GROSBEAK OR RED BIRD. \n\n\n\n\nThis is one of the most attractive of our native birds, and \nis deserving of more attention than has ever been bestowed \nupon him, as much on account of his brilliant plumage as for \nhis melodious whi.-tling. \n\nHe is known by several aliases, among others, the \nVirginia Nightingale, from liis habit of singing in the night, \nand tlie Red Bird, from the color of his plumage. In length \nlie is about seven inches. The plumage is of a rich \nvermillion-rcd over the entire body with a darker shade of \nthe same color on wings and tail ; the face, cheeks, throat, \nfeet, and legs are black, the bill, red. The head is sur- \nmounted with a tuft of brilliant red feathers, which the bird \nis capable of erecting at v.-ill. \n\nThe female is of a rich brown, with some red on breast \n\n\n\n34 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY S ROOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nand wings ; and, though not so striking in appearance as her \nhusband, is equally as beautiful, and is often as good a \nwhistler. \n\nDurmg the spring mouths he sings his melody all day \nlong, and often far into the night. There is a great differ- \nence in individijfils as to musical ability, but no more so \nthan among other birds ; as the mocking-bird, for instance. \n\nThe Cardinal Grosbeak is naturally a very active bird, \nand his cage should be a good-sized one, as large as for a \nmocking-bird ; otherwise he will damage his feathers. Hang \nhim up quite high, so that he may not be needlessly dis- \nturbed. The floor of the cage should be strewn with red \ngravel or silver sand. He will thrive well on canary seed, \nwith unhuUed rice and cracked corn, and occasionally a \nlittle hemp seed. His drink should be of soft water \xe2\x80\x94 hard \nor lime water having a tendency to make him costive ; \nwhich, if not cured, will soon carry him oft\'. \n\nDo not keep him too warm, as he is very hardy, enduring \nthe inclemencies of severe winters with great indifference. \n\nThe price of a young Cardinal Grosbeak, that is just be- \nginning to whistle, is fo.oo. Birds in full song, range from \nI5.00 to |io.oo, according to their proficiency. A suitable \ncage in walnut and \'tinned wire, will cost ^2.50 ; in brass, \n$7-50. \n\n\n\nTHE WOODLARK. \n\n\n\nThe song of the Woodlark is considered by many to be \n\nfully equal to that of \nthe Skylark, whom he \nmuch resembles i n \nplumage, although he \nis smaller and has a \nshorter tail. He should \nbe kept in the same \nkind of a cage as a Sky- \nlark, and he requires \nthe same treatment. \nThe price for a good \nspecimen of this bird \nis about the same as for \nthe Skvlark. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE SKYLARK. \n\n\n\n35 \n\n\n\n\nThe song of the Skylark is considered by some persons \n\nto be superior even to that of the nightingale. It is a bird \n\nof modest plumage \nbut trim and neat. \nThe male can be \ndistinguished from \nthe female by the \nbreast of the latter \nbeing nearly white. \nThis bird should \nbe fed upon our \nPrepared Mocking \nBird Food, with an \noccasional meal of \nseed. The cage in. \nwhich the Skylark \nshould be kept, as \nis shown in the en- \ngraving differs from \nthe shape of other \n\ncages, by having a bow window. This is for the reception of \n\na piece of fresh sod, \n\nwhich should be \n\ngiven at least three \n\ntimes a week. Here \n\nthe lark will stand \n\nand sing his musi- \ncal thanks, until his \n\nlittle throat almost \n\nbursts. There are \n\nno perches in the \n\ncage, as the bird \n\nwill always stay on \n\nthe bottom. Such \n\na cage will cost \n\n$3-5o. The price \n\nof a young male \n\nSkylark, is $5.00; \n\nwhen in full song, ^10.00 \n\nworth I50.00 to $100.00, \n\n\n\n\nCAGE FOR LARK. \n\n\n\nExtra fine singers are sometimes \n\n\n\n36 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nAFRICAN FINCHES. \n\n\n\nThese diminutive Finches vary in size from that of a \ncanary down to almost the smaUness of a humming bird. \nThey are always kept in pairs, and they spend much of their \ntime in caressing and arranging each other\'s feathers. They \nare fed upon maw, canary, and millet seed; and require a \ncage with close wires, as they can easily escape through the \nbars of an ordinary canary cage. \n\nThe room in which they are kept shonkl never be below \n60\xc2\xb0 in winter. Many of the varieties will breed in a cage \norin the aviary. \nIt is usual to keep a collection of from six to fifty in one \n\ncage. We furnish a walnut cage \nsuitable for six pairs of these \nbirds for $3.00. The two cages \nillustrated are of brass, and \nwill comfortably acconimcdale \nfour pairs. The price of No. i \nis I4.25 ; No. 2, )53.25. It would \nbe useless to enumerate all of \nthe varieties of these biilliant- \nhued birds, as there are hun- \ndreds of different kinds ; so \nonly the varieties most frequent- \nly met with are described. \n\nThe prices range from $3.50 \nto ^i^^oo foi\' ^ pair, consisting \nSTYLE NO. J. of male and female. \n\nThe Fire Finch is of dark red plumage, except the \nback and tail, which are dark greenish-brown. On the \nsides there are a few minute white spots, which, however, \nare frequently absent in young birds. The beak is coral- \nred, and around the eyes is a narrow, straw-colored ring. \nThe female is dark brown, with a little red at the root of the \ntail, and the same tiny white spots on the sides. They wiil \nreadily build a nest, provided they feel at home, and the \nclimate is hot enough to remind them of Central Africa. \n\nThe Cinder Finch is of delicate soft lavender or pale \nslate all over the body. The lower part of the body and the \ntail are purple, and the beak crimson. A line of black runs \nfrom the beak beyond the eye. They will breed freely. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n37 \n\n\n\nThe Crimson Finch is one of the gayest-plumaged of \nbirds, Tlie male bird\'s face, cheeks, throat, chest, and the \neniire lower body are of brilliant dark carmine-red ; the \nback is plain brown ; the tail, dark red ; and the beak is \nbright coral-red. On the sides of the chest are small white \nspots, vvliich become larger as the bird grows older. They \nare not apt to breed in confinement. \n\nThe Nutmeg Bird is very curiously marked, rich choco- \nlate on the back, and with numerous white crescents on the \nlower body. By no means delicate, these birds will Jive for \nyears in a cage or an aviary, and they will not require very \nparlicu\'ar care. \n\nThe a V ad a vat is one of \nthe smallest of finches, and \nis vivacious and graceful in \nhis movements. Hisplum- \nage is dark brown, with a \ncarmine tint, and covered \nall over witli small pearl- \nwhite spots ; the beak is \ncoral-red. The female is \nmore soberly attired. Both \nsexes have n sweet, melo- \ndious song. They will breed \nin an aviary occage, ifsup- \nplied with the proper ac- \ncomodations. The breed- style no. 2. \ning season with them begins about Christmas. \n\nThe Waxbill has a grayish-brown plumage, marked \nwith extremely faint wave-like dark lines athwart the body. \nThe abdomen is of very bright roseate hue, which is \nbrightest in the centre, and fainter towards the sides and \nchest. The beak is red. When the bird sings, the tail \nis extended to a fan shape. Male and female are alike, and \nbolh are equally 9cave and cheerful, and among the hardiest \nof tiie finches. There are several varieties of the Waxbill, \nwhich differ in minor points. \n\nThe Zebra is very small in size, and his plumage is a \ndark greenish-brown on the back; the throat, chest, and \nlower body are pale yellow, with a diffused patch of bright \norange about the middle of the lower part of the body. The \nbeak is red, and a red line extends from the beak through \nthe eye towards the ear. The female is without the orange \n\n\n\n\n38 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\non the lower part of the body. They make most bright and \nintelligent pets. \n\nThe Silverbeak is exceedingly amiable in the aviary, \nand very easily kept, bred, and reared. The upper part of \nthe body is fawn, the wings and tail a shade darker, and the \nlower part of the body, white ; the beak is silver-gray. The \nmale constantly sings a pleasing little song. \n\nThe White-Headed Nun, or Meja Finch, is of soft \nchestnut-brown all over, except the head, which is a silver- \ngray, delicately shaded where the neck joins the shoulders. \n\nThe Black-Headed Nun is of a bright rich chestnut \nbrown; the head, neck, and upper part of the breast being \ndeep black. \n\nThe Cut-Throat has a red band extending from ear to \near across the throat. The female is without this band. The \nsoft fawn color and delicate markings of the rest of the \nplumage are remarkably pretty. They will readily breed \nin a cage. \n\n\n\nTHE CHAFFINCH. \n\n\n\nIn plumage the Chaffinch is certainly a handsome bird, \nalthough the colors are soft and subdued. The head is \n\ndark blueish-gray ; the back, \nbrown ; and the wings, black ; the \nends of the wing-feathers, white, \nand bars on the wings. The \nbreast is pinkish-red; the belly \ninclining to white ; the vamp, \ngreenish ; the tail, dark. The \n%^\'^W^^>^^M^j3]f .,^^ female is smaller than the male \n\nand much duller in plumage. \nThis bird is a most delightful \nsongster. His short, sharp, clear, thrilling note is uttered \nwith that earnestness which is so attractive. \n\nThe Chaffinch, to sing well, should be kept in a small \ncage, a square one being preferable. Feed him on our \nMixed Seed, and occasionally give him a meal-worm or \nsome ant eggs. He will breed with a canary. \xe2\x80\xa2 \n\nA Chaffinch, beginning to sing, is worth |i-5o; when in \nfull song, I5.00. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD P\'OOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 39\' \n\nTHE BALTIMORE ORIOLE. \n\n\n\n\nThe Baltimore Oriole is a most beautiful bird. The head, \nwings, and upper part of the back of the male are black, the \nlower body, bright orange, with a white bar ornamenting the \nwings. The female is of more sober plumage. The notes \nof the male are a low whistle, with occasional trumpet tones. \nA diet of soft food is necessary. It should be kept in a \nMocking Bird cage. A male in perfect plumage is worth \n^10.00 ; a female, $5.00 \n\n\n\nTHE BOHEMIAN WAXWING. \n\n\n\nThis bird, also known as the Cedar Bird, is of very beauti- \nful soft-colored plumage, and has a singular appendage to \nthe wings, bearmg a striking resemblance to a drop of red \nsealing-wax. Its note is not unlike that of the Thrush, but \nis more uncertain and weaker. While singing it agitates \nthe crest on its head. It requires a Mocking Bird cage, \nwhich should not be kept in too warm a room, as it is very \nhardy and likes cold weather. It requires Prepared Mock- \ning Bird Food. A male specimen in good plumage will \ncost $3.00. \n\n\n\n40 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE GREENFINCH. \n\n\n\nThis bird, known also nSthc Green Linnet, is of yellowish- \ngreen pluma.y:e, inclinini^ to \ngray on the back, and lighter \nbeneath. His song, although \nnot of the highest order, is \nsprightly, and given with great \nheariiness. \n\nThey require a cage similar \nto a canary\'s, and thrive under \nthe same food and treatment. \nThey will interbreed with \ncanaries, but the mules are \nneither fine songsters nor of beautiful plnmage. \n\nA Greenfincli beginning to sing is worth $1.50 ; one in full \nsong, ^5.00. \n\n\n\n\nTHE ENGLISH THRUSH. \n\n\n\n\nThe Thrush is one of the finest of soft-billed songsters. \nHis sweet and merry song makes all rejoice wholiear it. In \nsize it is about as large as our robin, and ii speckled yellow, \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n41 \n\n\n\nwhich 13 the color of its bill. Thrushes pos?;ess imitativG \npowers ii a marvelous degree, tunes played or whistled to \nthem are readily nc- \nciuired. They re- \nquire tiic Fame treat- \nment and cage as \nMocking Birds. The \nsnails that arc found \nin ponds and rivers \nmake them a treat of \nwhich they are pas- \nsionately fond. It \nis wortli the trouble \nof collf cling these to \nsee them break the \nshells against the \nwires or perches of \nthe cage. \n\nA young Thrush \ncoming into song, is \nworth $8.00; in full song, from $10.00 to $25.00. \n\nOur native Thrushes when raised fron\\ fledglings make \nexcellent songsters. -A young male is wortli $3.00. \n\nA very elegant cage for a Thrush, is liere illustrated. It \nis 2i>^ inches high, the base i6><X22 inches; body I4>^X20 \ninches. The wires are of brass and the base of black wal- \nnut. It has patent cups to prevent scattering of food. \nPrice, ^13.00. \n\n\n\n\nTHE BLUE JAY. \n\n\n\nThe American Blue Jay, i^ a handsome bird and an v.n- \nequaled mimic. He will with equal facility imitate the \nsoftest sounds and the harshest sounds, but seems to delight \nmore in the loud noises that he hears about him; such as \nthe whining of a do^, the crying of a baby, etc. On his \nhead he wears a liglit blue crest, which lie can elevate at \npleasure; the rest of him is of blue ia various shades. He \nis very docile in confinement and can easily be taught in- \nnumerable tricks. \n\nAs to diet, he should be fed principally on cracked com, \n\n\n\n42 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nwith shreds of lean meat and an occasional meal worm. \nHe is very fond of raw egg, he will puncture the shell with \n\n\n\n\nhis bill, and then suck the contents. A very large cage is \nnecessary for the proper comfort of the Jay. \nA male bird in good plumage is worth ^5.00. \n\n\n\nTHE BULLFINCH. \n\n\n\nThere is scarcely another bird as pleasing and engaging \nin confinement as the Bullfinch. Their pretty plumage, \ntameness, and winning actions, cause them to be general \nfavorites. Their size is about that of a sparrow ; the beak \nis thickly rounded, and black. The top of the head, wings, \nand tail are glossy black ; the back, bluish-gray ; and the \nbreast, red. The breast of the female is gray-brown. \n\nTheir natural song is a soft, low whistle, interspersed \nwith some curious sounds, and accompanied with bowing \nand waving of the tail, and other grotesque movements. \n\nA Bullfinch may early be taught to do wonders ; to kiss its \nowner, to come and go at command, etc. They can be \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n43 \n\n\n\n\nbought already taught to pipe tunes, "God save the Queen," \n"Pretty Polly Perkins," and airs from operas. To teach \nthem to whistle these airs requires much time and patience, \nmore than the equivalent of the expense of procuring them \nalready taught by poor and patient foreigners. They \n\nrequire the same treatment \nas the canary, but a rather \nlarger cage. We illustrate \na cage that is suitable. It \nis 17 inches high, 11 inches \nwide, and 14 inches long. \nIn brass the price is 16.50 ; \nin real silver plate, $9.50. \n\nA male Bullfinch will \n\nsometimes mate with a fe- \n\n\' male canary, but mule birds \n\nof this, kind are hard to \n\nraise, and require much time \n\nand patience. \n\nThe natural song of the Bullfinch, if song it can be called, \nis extremely simple. Indeed it is a mere twitter, consisting \nof three notes, none of \nwhich are particularly \nmelodious ; but it may be \ntaught to do wonders; \nto whistle popular airs as \nlustily as any boy ever \nwhistled them. \n\nIf you desire to teach \na Bullfinch to pipe, he \nshould be taken in hand \nwhen young, just as soon \nafter he has been im- \nported as possible. Let \nnobody tend him or sup- \nply him with food and \nwater but yourself. Be \nvery particular about this. \nHis music lessons should \nbe given on an empty stomach. Take his seed away from \nhim the day before you begin the lessons, which should be \ngiven at day break. The bird should not hear the least \nsound except that made by his teacher. If you are capable \n\n\n\n\n44 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OP CAGE BIRDS. \n\nof whistling: cle:irly and sharply you will nccl no in~t"U- \nment ; but ihe tune may be played on a tin whistle, a flute, \nor a lla:j;eolet. Play or whistle the first bars over acrain \nand aii^ain, in exactly the same time ; but do not i;ive the little \nscholar many notes to digest at one time, Fifty times is not \ntoo many times to repeat the notes at each lesson. The \nprobabihlies are that before the last time the notes are \nplayed, he will echo them with more or less success. Now \nfor his reward. Fling open the shutters (the lessons should \nbe given in a partially-darkened room), and pile up seed in his \ncup and crown the banquet with two or three\xe2\x80\x94 just two or \nthree\xe2\x80\x94 hemp seed. Let this end the lesson. Allow him to \neat the seed for a couple of hours and then take it away and \ndo not allow him to eat more that day. The next morning \nhe will commence with the notes in less time than before, \nand after he is nearly or quite perfect, go on with a (q\\v \nmore notes. Reward him the same as befgre. Continue \nthe lessons until he can pipe the whole tune perfectly and \nwithout hesitancy. \n\nIf your bird is obstinate, as a punishment you may blow \nhim up, not figuratively, but actually. Walk sharply up to \nthe cage and blow at him with your moutli. He will relish \nthat so little, that, after a few applicaticns a quick step or \ntwo towards his cage will be sufficient to put him on his \nbest behavior. \n\nA Bullfinch is worth 1^3.00 ; one that pipes one tune, $15.00; \none that pipes two tunes, $40.00; o;ie that pipes three tuaes, \n$65.00. \n\n. 6 8 \xc2\xbb sai l . \n\n\n\nTHE INDIGO FINCH. \n\n\n\nThe Indigo Finch \xc2\xbbs another beautiful American songster, \nwho is deserving of more attention than he has ever re- \nceived. The prevailing color of his coat i.^; a beautiful blue ; \nbut he is apt, in confinement, to change it to a sober gray \nat moulting lime. He \\^ a seed-eating l)ird, smaller than a \ncanary, and requires similar treatment and the same>sort of \ncage; but with closer wires, as lie can easily cscapethrough \nbars of ordinary width. The price of such a cago, in brass, \nis S\'i.oo. \n\nWhen in good plumage, this bird is worth $i.5a \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OP CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE TROPIAL. \n\n\n\n45 \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\ny^y^)^\' \n\n\n\n^^t&^- \n\n\n\nl^i \n\n\n\n^ \n\n\n\ni>/ \n\n\n\nThe Tropial is a South American bird, about the size of \nour Robin, and has bcautilul orange and black plumage. \nHe is almost as good a mimic as the Mocking Bird ; and his \nnatural song is clear, flute like, and pouerlul, and is sent \nforth almost continually from morning until night. When \nyoung tliey may be readily tauglit to whistle airs by fre- \nquently pla\\ ing them on a tlageolet or flute in their hearing. \n\nThey are extremely active and graceful and soon become \nfamiliar with their (nvners,and v^ery muchattached to them. \nThey should be fed upon oiir Prepared Mocking Bird Food, \nAny cage suitable for a Mocking Bird will do for them, \nand their general treatment is the same. \n\nMore of these birds are kept as cage pets in this country \nthan perhaps any other songster, e.xcept the Mocking Bird ; \nand they well deserve their great popularity. \n\nA young Trt)pial is worth $S.oo ; ni full song, $12.00. It is \nperhaps more satisfactory to purchase a young bird ; as it \nwill become more tame. Male birds always prove to be \nexoelient whistlers. \n\n\n\n46 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nPARRAKEETS. \n\n\n\n\nThe various species of Parrakeets differ much in size, \n\nsome being no larger than a \nsparrow; others being about \nthe size of a Cuban parrot. \nAll require a diet of plain \ncanary-seed, with occasionally \na little unhulled rice. The \nsmaller kinds can be kept in \nany kind of a canary cage, but \nwe advise a square cage of \nsolid brass, with a sliding bot- \ntom. The cost of such a cage \nis 15.50. Larger species re- \nquire a special cage, the best \nsort of which we illustrate. It \nhas a brass fi\'ame, with polished \nsteel wires. It is worth I5.50. \nThis cage will also answer ad- \nmirably for small Parrots and \nfor Lories. \n\nTHE COCKATEEL. \n\nThe sober-colored Cockateel is the most gentle and amia- \nble of all Parrakeets, and is about the size of a common \npigeon. He is of a dun color, with lemon cheeks, and a \nspot of red on them ; and a gay crest on his head. Never \nnoisy and not destructive, a pair of these birds may be kept \nin a roomy cage in any sitting-room, and can be safely as- \nsociated in an aviary with the smallest of finches. Few \nbirds breed more readily in captivity ; they lay from three \nto nine eggs, which are hatched in about three weeks. \nA small box with a small hole at one end should be placed \nin the cage for them to nest in. \n\nHe is very frugal in his food, which should consist of \ncanary and a little millet seed ; but when breeding a soft \nfood made of stale bread and scalded milk, with a little oat- \nmeal, should be given. Cockateels will sometimes learn to \ntalk. \n\nA pair of good specimens is worth $15.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 47 \n\nTHE AUSTRALIAN PARRAKEET. \n\n\n\n\nThis species is the most popular of small Parrakeets. \nThey are about the size of a canary, \nbut their long tail makes them ap- \npear much larger. The plumage is \nbeautiful green on the breast and \ntail, and green dappled with yellow \non the back and wings, and shading \nto yellow on the head. The sexes \nare very similar. They W\'ill breed \nfreely in confinement, and require for \na nest a cocoanut shell, with a hole \nbored in it, and the meat extracted. \nWith this curious nest in an ordinary \nbreeding cage, these birds will setup \nhouse-keeping, when the proper sea- \nson commences, and raise several \nbroods of young ones. Nearly all \nthese Parrakeet that are brought to this country are cage- \nbred in Europe. Australian Parrakeets require no other \nseed excepting plain Sicily \ncanary. The cage illustra- \nted, is one of the best \nshapes in which to keep a \npair of them. It is of solid \nbrass, and sufficiently large \nto allow plenty of exercise. \nPrice, I2.50. \n\nIt requires but very little \ntime or patience to tame a \npair of these birds, so that \nthey will jump on your fin- \nger, come when called, and \nother pleasing little tricks. \nThey can be allowed to \nrange around a room at \nwill, and may be depended \nupon to return to their \ncage at night. When al- \nlowed their liberty in this \nway, they soon are on famil- \niar terms with their owner. A pair is worth |8.oo. \n\n\n\n\n48 BTRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE AFRICAN LOVE BIRD. \n\n\n\nThe African Love Bird, is of a bright green color, and \nabout as large as the preceding species, but have short \n\ntails. Some have red \nfaces, others are a!) green. \nThey are always sold in \npairs, and are very affec- \ntionate, spending most of \ntheir time caressing each \nother. They can be easily \ntaught to sit on the finger \nand to kiss their owner, \nand can be allowed to fly \nabout a room. They are \nwortk |8.oo per pair. \n\nTHE QUAKER LOVE BIRD \n\nis simitar to the above, \nbut the head and should- \ners are of a modest dun \ncolor, the rest of the body \nbeiivj bright green. They require the same treatment and \ncagvf*. ds t<.e other varieties. They also are worth $8.00 per \npair. \n\nAn admirable cage for a pair of Love Birds is herewith \nillustrated. It is 17^ inches high, 11 inches wide and 14 \ninches long, and is made of best quality spring wire. The \nbase is of oiled walnut. It is worth ^6.50 in brass, and $9.50 \nin silver plate. \n\nTHE MAGPIE. \n\n\n\n\nAlthough without song, the Magpie makes a most amus- \ning pet and instances of their learning to repeat words and \nsentences are not rare. He is about the si^e of our crow, \nand the plumage is of white and a purple-tinted black. He \nis more readily tamed than almost any other bird, and re- \nquires very liille care, as he may be fed upon scraps from the \ntable. Being a large bird he requires a roomy cage, and \nshould be frequently allowed the liberty of a room, where \nhis quaint ways and funny tricks are most amusing;, A \nyoung Magpie is worth $5.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s EOOK OP CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE NONPAREIL. \n\n\n\n49 \n\n\n\nThis is one of the most beautiful of our American finches, \nand has a low, soft, and \nvery agreeable song. \nHe has a violet hood \nand neck, a ret! circle \naround the e3es, and \nyellovvisli - green back. \nThe throat, chest, and \nunder part of the body, \nare of a bright red, and \nthe wings, green. He is \nrather smaller tlian tlie \ncanary, l)iit requires the \nsame food, cage, and \ngeneral treatment. He \nis very fond of bathing, \nand should lie indulged \nin this cleanly habit. \n\nA specimen of the Nonpareil in good plurmige, will cost \n$3.00; when in full song, $5.00. \n\n\n\n\nTHE STARLING. \n\n\n\nThe Starling is one of the most gifted of birds, \nsagacity is wonderful \xe2\x80\x94 he can sing, \nwhistle, and talk. The last accom- \nplishment can be taught to him almost \nas readily as to a parrot. In size, he \nis larger than a cow blackbird, and is \nof a lustrous greenish-black, with \ngreenish speckles over the body ; the \nbill is lirown. \n\nStarlings require a large size mock- \ning bird cage, and should be fed upon \nPrepared Mocking Bird Food. \n\nA male Starling, beginning to whis- \ntle, is worth $5.uo ; on\xc2\xa9 that talks, $25.00 to $ioa \n\n\n\nHig \n\n\n\n\n50 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTITMICE. \n\n\n\nThe only variety of Titmice that are kept as pets in this \ncountry is the Blue Tit or Tom Tit, as it is familiarly called. \nThe plumage is very beautiful. The front of the head and \nthe sides are white, and a streak of the same extends back- \nward over the eyes to the nape of \nthe neck. Within this pearly set- \nting is his crown of azure blue. \nHis back is of a bright olive green, \nthe under part of the throat is \nblack ; the wings sky blue, tipped \nwith white ; and the tail as brilliant \nas the crown. The female is of \nmore sober plumage than the \nmale. \n\nThe Tit is a most active and \namusing bird, and is easily tamed. Its song is an indistinct \nwarbling, composed of a few strains, with higher notes \ninterspersed. \n\nThey shouM be fed on our Mixed Seed, with an occa- \nsional meal of ant eggs and meal worms. They are so \nexpert with their bill, that they must be kept in an all-metal \ncage with close wirQS. A suitable cage in solid brass costs \n$3.50. These birds are generally sold in pairs (male and \nfemale), $5.00. Singly, the male is worth ^3.00. \n\n\n\n\nTHE REDSTART. \n\n\n\nThe plumage of this bird makes it worthy of special notice, \nand he possesses a pleasing song. He is about the size of a \nCanary. The sides of the head are black ; the throat black, \nspeckled with white ; the back and belly a mixture of land \nred and gray, the wings dark brown, and the tail red. He \nrequires our Prepared Mocking Bird Food, and should have \na cage similar to that used for a Black Cap. \n\nIn Europe this bird ranks among the most popular of cage \nsongsters, and he is now beginning to receive the attention \nhe merits, in this country. \n\nThe Redstart is worth $2 before he sings, and $$ afterwards. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 51 \n\nTHE JAVA SPARROW. \n\n\n\nNo foreign bird is so generally known as the Java Spar- \nrow. It is rather handsome and especially remarkable for \nthe very perfect condition in which it will always keep its \nplumage. The soft slate-colored body feathers are always \nas close as they can lay, the \nlapge white patches on the \ncheeks are ever clean, the black \nface and throat skin like new \nvelvet and the wax-like beak is \npink, and looks as if just model- \nled from wax. \n\nNo bird is so easily kept and \nof so little trouble as the Java \nSparrow ; it needs only plain \ncanary seed, and can be kept in \neither a round or square canary \ncage. Although without song, yet his extreme docility \nand the ease with which tricks can be taught him, makes \nhim a popular cage bird. A pair will breed in a cage as \nreadily as canaries, and the number of broods they will rear \nin a year, if permitted, almost surpasses belief. \n\nWhite Java Sparrows are not, as many suppose, albinos, \nbut a separate variety that are bred by the Japanese who \noriginated them. Java Sparrows are generally kept in pairs \nand are worth ^4.00 for a male and female ; the white variety \nis sold at $10.00 per pair. \n\n\n\n\nTHE ROSE BREASTED GROSBEAK. \n\n\n\nFew birds surpass this one in brilliancy of plumage or \nbeauty of song. Night, as well as day, he pipes his merry \nnotes, which are clear and mellow. He has a bright carmine \nbreast, and a body part white, part black. He requires a \ndiet of our Mixed Seed, and a small-sized Mocking Bird \ncage. A good specimen of this bird is worth $4.00. \n\nVery hardy, he will stand almost any degree of cold ; but \nif kept in a hot room, his song soon fails, and he sits on his \nperch, dumpish and unhappy. \n\n\n\n52 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE BLUE BIRD. \n\n\n\nEveryone knows the plumage and song of the Blue \nBird, so it would be \nuseless to spare the \nspace for a descrip- \ntion. In Europe he is \nkept as a cage bird, \nand much admired, \nwhere he is called the \nBlue Robin. He re- \nquires a mixed diet of \nprepared food and \nseed. The price of \none in good plumage \nis|i.oo. \n\nTHE CROSSBILL. \n\n\n\n\n\nTiiis is a handsome^ \nbird, especially notice- \nable from the peculiar -\'^"\'\\<r-^j^*^-V^ --"\xe2\x96\xa0 ^ \nformation of the beak. \' \'\' v 3:^=^^:^_::r-" \n\nfrom which it derives its name. \n\n^ It is subject to great variation of plumage, being some- \ntimes red, and sometimes a greenish yellow. The cage for \nthis bird must be all wire, for it will soon destroy a wooden \none. It can be fed upon canary seed, with a piece of sweet \napple occasionally. \n\nThe song is somewhat harsh. The price pf a male bird \nis ^5.00. \' \n\n\n\nTHE YELLOW HALIMER. \n\n\n\nThe Yellow Hammer is a bird of handsome plumage, but \nindifferent song. \n\nThe breast and head are of bright lemon color; the back \nand tail coverts, of rich chestnut. \n\nA diet of canary seed, and a roomy cage, are required. A \nmale is wortli ^3.00 ; or a pair $5.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s EOOK OF CAGE. BIRDS. \n\nTHE BOBOLINK. \n\n\n\n53 \n\n\n\nThis is a bird that wears, in the spring, a black coat, \nwitli yellow epaulets, and \n\ndons a sober suit of russet \'=_..ir-_ _^^==^ \n\nbrown in the autumn. He \nchanges his name with his \nfeathers, for in the spring he \nis tlie Bobohnk,and later his \ncognomen is Reedbird. He \nis a jnerry songster, and \nmakes an attractive cage \nbird. He requires a diet \nof plain canary seed and \nshould be kept in a small \n\n\n\n\nsize Mocking Bird cage. \nWith the plumage of the \nReedbird he is worth 75c. \nAfter lie assumes that of \nthe Bobolink, the price in- \ncreases to $\'1.50, and when \nin full song, |i3.oo. \n\nThe Bobolink should al- \nways be kept on a short al- \nlowance of seed, three table- \nspoonfuls being enough for \na day\'s allowance. He is such a perfect glutton, that if \nallowed an unlimited supply of seed, he will do but little \nsinging. \n\n\n\nTHE QUAIL. \n\n\n\nThe American Quail, although it can hardly be called a \ncage bird, is most interesting when kept in an aviary where \nthey will hatch out their cumiing little ones. We sell many \nof them fur the purpose of breaking liuntmg dogs. The \nprice per pair ranires from $1.50 to $5.00 according to the \nseason when piirrliased. European Quail arc worth |;io.oo \nper pair, and the curiously tufted Cahfornia Quail, about \nthe fjutme price. \n\n\n\n54 BIRD FOOD company\'s\' BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE ENGLISH AND AMERICAN ROBINS. \n\n\n\nThe Redbreast, which \nis the national bird of Eng- \nland, is smaller than our \nRobin, resembling the latter \nonly by the red on the \nbreast. As a cage bird, he \nis very gentle, lively, and \naffectionate, and sings his \nmerry song summer and \nwinter, often far into the \nnight. \n\nThe treatment given in \nthe first part of this book \nfor soft-billed birds is \napplicable also to the \nEnglish Robin. He should \nbe kept in an oblong cage. \nAn English Robin costsJs. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAMERICAN ROBIN. \n\n\n\nENGLISH ROBIN. \n\nOur own Robin, or, pro- \nperly, the migratory \nThrush, makes a most \ndelightful cage bird, \nwhose whistle is not in- \nferior to that of the Eng- \nlish Blackbird, which it \nmuch resembles. He will \nreadily pick up tunes that \nare frequently whistled to \nhim. A male bird that \nwhistles is worth $3.00. \n\nThe Catbird, who be- \nlongs to the same family, \nis well worth mentioning in \nthis book of cage birds. \nHe has a very sweet song, \nand when caged is not apt \nto give much vent to the \ndisagreeable mew from \nwhen he takes his name. \n\nA Catbird is worth $3.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n55 \n\n\n\nTHE ENGLISH BLACKBIRD. \n\n\n\nThe English Blackbird is a jovial, jolly fellow ; with a \nfine, hearty, and mel- \nlow whistle that grows \nlouder during rainy \nweather. In size and \nbuild he somewhat \nresembles our robin. \nHe will learn to pipe \nany easy tune that is \nwhistled to him. \nWhen once learned \nhe will never forget \nit. He is jet black, \nwith a yellow bill. He \nrequires the general \ntreatment given for \nall soft-billed birds, \nand should be kept in \na mocking bird cage \nof large size. \n\nAn English Black- \nbird, beginning to \nwhistle, is worth $5 , \nin full song, $10. \n\nOurown red-winged \nBlackbird has a whistle almost as musical as his English \nnamesake, and is much more handsome. He requires a \ndiet of seeds. One of these birds, in good plumage, is \nworth 1 1. 50. \n\n\n\n\nB!S*--^-^*VEB\xc2\xbb \n\n\n\nBOARDING BIRDS. \n\n\n\nWe are prepared to board all kinds of birds during the \nsummer months, while their owners are away from home. \nThe charge per week for canaries and other small birds, is \n25c. each bird. Mocking Birds and all birds that require soft \nfood, and Parrots, Cockatoos, etc., 50c. per week. The \nbest possible care and attention is guaranteed. \n\n\n\n56 BIRD FOOD company\'s EOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE JAPANESE ROBIN. \n\n\n\nThis is one of the most active and merry of cage birds. \nHe is always hopping from perch to perch, not stopping to \nsing, but pouring forth his merry song as he goes. In size \nhe IS about as large as an \nEnglish robin. The back \nis olive brown, changing \nto yellow at the head, and \nto gray gn the sides. The \nthroat and breast have a \npatch of bright orange, \nshaded towardsiheborder. \nThe wings are dark, each \nwing-feather edged with \norange. The beak and \nfeet are bright coral red. \nA small size mocking bird \ncage, and soft food is required for their proper comfort \nOne of these birds in song is worth $7.50. \n\n\n\n\nTHE MINO. \n\n\n\nThe Mino, sometimes called the Mynah, is a member of \nthe Starling family. He is the talking cage-bird of India \nand China, and possesses power of song with a talent for \nimitating the human voice. He is a liitle larger than a \nEuropean starling, but much stouter. \'1 he plumage is \nblack, with a white bar on the wings; the feet and rather \nshort beak are yellow, and a ring of the same tint surrounds \nthe eye. There are yellow patches on the side of the head, \nand collar-like appendages of bare orange-colored skin \nextend from the ears downward. \n\nThese birds can be fed upon Mocking Bird Food, but will \neat almost anything. Small pieces of raw beef, plenty of \nripe fruit, and a little boiled rice, are very good additions to \ntheir diet. \n\nA young Mino is worth from ^25.00 to $50 00 ; one that \ntalks is valued at almost any price from ^50.00 upwards. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIROS. \n\nTHE BLACK CAP. \n\n\n\n57 \n\n\n\nIt is no uncommon thing for tiie song of the Black Cap to \n\nbe spoken of as \nrivahng that of \nthe nightingale, \nand some writers \ngo so far as to \nassert that be- \ntween the melo- \ndy of the two it \nis next to im- \npossible to dis- \ntinguish. This \nbird is smaller \nthan the Canary, \nand has a plum- \nage of olive \ngreen and gray, with a dingy white throat, and a black cap \non the head. \n\nIt is a soft-billed bird, and requires to be fed upon our \nPrepared IMocking Bird food. It requires an oblong cage \nof small size, which, in wood, is worth $1.25, and in brass \nI5.50. A Black Cap, coming into song, will cost ^5.00 ; after \nthe song is perfected, $10.00. \n\n\n\n\n\xe2\x96\xa0 J \' \' Q i \'h \xe2\x96\xa0 \n\n\n\nTHE WEAVER BIRD. \n\n\n\nThis is one of the most interesting families of foreign cage \nbirds. Kept in an aviary, where they will display their \nwonderful ingenuity in nest-building, no more interestmg \npets can be found. Even in a roomy cage, in which a few \nbranches and a quantity of stiff librc has been placed, the \nmale of a j^air of Weaver Birds will, without delay, begin to \nbuild nest after nest, probably pulling most of them to \npieces, when half finished, if their construction does not en- \ntirely please the proud architect. There are many varieties \nof these curious birds, the prices of whidi range from |;io.oo \nto I50.00 per pair. \n\n\n\n58 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE BRAZILIAN CARDINAL. \n\n\n\nThis sleek bird, prettily marked gray, white, and black, \nwith crimson head and \ncrest, is sure to have the \nattention of every be- \nholder. His great activ- \nity and his considerable \nsize require a roomy \ncage, wherein, with fair \ntreatment, he will keep \nhis plumage in perfect \ncondition, entirely indif- \nferent as to the tempera- \nture in which he is kept. \nThe song, or rather \nwhistle, of this bird is \nloud and clear, and he \nsings at all seasons of the \nyear except while moulting. The female is of the same \nbeautiful plumage as the male, and is equally as good a \nwhistler. Feed upon plain canary seed, with an occasional \nmeal of ant eggs and insects. \n\nA good specimen is worth I5.00 ; when in full song, |io. \n\n\n\n\nTHE WHYDAH BIRD. \n\nSuch surperb birds should not be absent from an \naviary, and they will live contented in a cage. There are \nseveral varieties, all of which have tails of great length and \nbeauty. A small cage will of course destroy the beauty of \nthis appendage. Placed in an aviary and in perfect plumage \nthe graceful flight of this bird, with its long sweeping tail \nis a sight of beauty. \n\nThey will not breed unless kept in an aviary of a very \nwarm temperature. \n\nThe Bird of Paradise belongs to this species. All require \na diet of plain Canary and millet seed. The price per pair, \nranges from |io.oo to $100. =>\xe2\x96\xa0 A suitable cage in brass large \nenough for them to build their curious nests, is worth |i8. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS, 59 \n\nTHE NIGHTINGALE. \n\n\n\n\nWe now come to the bird about which more poetry has been \n\nwritten than \nany other \nfeathered song- \ns t e r. When \neveryone is as- \nleep, his tiny \nthroat pours \nforth its sweet \nmusic to the \nmoon; but \nwhen caged he \nsings by day \nand night, and \nhis is the music \nthat one never \nwishes still. In \nplumage he is a \nmodest bird, and in size he is about as large as a blue bird. \nIt has always been a matter of surprise that such a small \nbird as the Nightingale should possess such wonderful \nsong-power, as its singing can be heard, on a still night, at \na distance of a mile ; but the fact is explained by the great \nstrength of the muscles of the throat. \n\nThe Nightingale requires a large cage, which should be \n_hung in a subdued light. A cage with the back and sides \nof dark wood, is the best for this bird, and the roof should \nbe covered, on the inside, with green baize, thus preventing \nthe bird\'s head from, being injured when he flies upward. \nThe perches should be covered with soft material, as his \nfeet are very tender, and apt to become sore when plain \nwooden perches are used. The cost of such a cage is ^3.50. \nThe same treatment is required as for other soft-billed \nbirds. Although apt to be rather a delicate bird when first \ncaught, after once becoming accustomed to cage life, it is \namong the longest-lived of cage birds, instances being \nknown of Nightingales having lived fourteen years in con- \nfinement, \n\nA Nightingale beginning to sing is worth I15.00; in full \nsong, from $25.00 to I50.00. \n\n\n\n6o BIRD rOCD COMPANY\'G nOCK OF CAGE DIRDS. \n\nTHE AMERICA:] GOLDFINCH. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe American Goldfinch, or tlie Yellow Bird, as lie is gen- \nerally called, is found all over our land. He makes one of \nthe most sprightly of cage birds and is readily lamed. The \nplumage of the male is of a beautiful lemon, with a l^lack \ncap and lemon and white wings. His song, although not con- \nsisting of a very wide range uf notes, is sweet and pleasing. \nAny ur\xc2\xbbe who can easily capture one of these pretty bu\'ds \nby means of limed twigs or a trap cage, the manner of \ndoing so, being fully described in the chapter on trapping \nbirds. \n\nThis bird should be treated the same as a Canary, and \nkept in the same sort of a cage. An American Goldfinch \nin fine plumage and accustomed to a cage, is worth $1.50. \n\n\n\nTHE RED LINNET. \n\n\n\nThe Red Linnet is a beautiful whistling bird tb:it is a \nnative American, and deserves a high rank among cage \nbirds. \n\nHe is a constant son^s\'xr and of beautiful plumage of \nreciish hue. He is of the size and requires the sanio \ngeneral treatment and cage as a Canary. \n\nA 20od specimen is v/orth $1.50; in full song, $5.00. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 6l \n\nPARROTS. \n\n\n\nThe docility of Parrots, the facility with which they be- \ncome accustomed to cage life, and thtir taltriu for imita- \nting the human voice, have made them the (avoriie cage- \nbirds from time immemorial. No other birds become \nso entirely domesticated, and so much attached to tiieir \nkeepers, and none are so iong-li^ed. The male and female \nare alike in color, and both i)ussess the imuative (acuity. \n\nEverybody who wants to buy a Parrot desires one that \ntalks; but such biids are not always lo be iiad, and the \nprices asked for tiiem are usually very high. It is always \nmore satisfactory to buy a yuung bird and leach it yourst If, \nwhich can easily be done by cairying out the fullowirig in- \nstructions: \xe2\x80\x94 \n\nThe best way to win the afTection of a Parrot, is to treat \nit with gentleness. Approach her with harsh \\oice ar.d \nthreatening gestures, and she will immediately stc\'ind on the \ndefensive. Approach her with soft words and kind looks, \nand if not at once subdued, she will be r< ady to listen to \nwhat you say, and watch what yuu are doing. You may \ndepend upon it, the first few mterviews will be lasting, \nwhichever way they tend. As a rule, a Pariot will learn \nquicker from women than men, and quicker still from \ncliildren. \n\nThe best way to teach the bird to sreak, is to keep quite \nout of sight while giving a lesson. We l^now of nearly a \ndozen parrots, of various sorts, that have been educated on \nthis principle; and which, in n miraculously short lime, have \ntm-ned oiil llnent talkers. Too much nttention cannot be \npaid to the linking together of words forming any sen- \ntence von mav wish" ilie bird to learn. Let each \\yord glide \ninto liie next as smoothly a<: possible. II yon find thnt your \nbird experiences great \'difficulty in rept-atirg a particular \nlesson, it is better not (o persist in teaching it at that lime, \nas you mny make her sullen or vicious. B(f\xc2\xab \'re attempt- \ning to teach a Parrot to talk, it f\'^ always advisable to accus- \ntom iier to being Iinndled. The cruel i^lan of slitting a \nbird\'s tongue will not enable it to talk any sooner, but. on \nt!ie contraiy, will prevent it from ever articulating distinctly. \n\nAll species of Parrots, if fed as follows, will always keep \n\n\n\n62 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nhealthy, and a bird, to be a good talker, must always be in \ngood condition. \n\nIn one cup of the cage always keep canary seed ; in the \nother, a mash, made as follows: Take a slice of stale \nbread, and cover it with warm water ; after it has soaked \nfor a quarter of an hour, squeeze it as dry as possible; then \npour enough of boiling milk over it to moisten it without \nmaking it sloppy. This must be made fresh every day, and \na tablespoonful of our Parrot Food mixed \ninto the day\'s allowance. This food is \nmade of spices, dried fruits, etc., and will \nkeep a parrot in brilliant plumage and \nhealth for years, if used as above directed. \nPrice, 15c. per box; if sent by mail, 20c, \n\nA Parrot does not need water if fed upon \nmoist food. Occasionally you may give \nthem nuts of any kind (especially pea- \nnuts), boiled corn, and almost any sort of \nfruit. But do not feed on bread and cof- \nfee, table scraps, or meat of any sort. They \nhave a great relish for the latter kind of food, and after \n\nawhile will acquire so deter- \nmined an appetite for it, that \nthey will pluck out their own \nfeathers for the sole purpose of \nsucking the stem. \n\nIt should always be borne in \nmind that the gizzard of a Parrot, \nas well as of all other birds, takes \nthe place of teeth ; and, further, \nthat it can no more work unless \nsupplied with gravel than a mill \ncan grind, without millstones. \nClean gravel, white or red, should \nbe supplied not less than three \ntimes a week, \n\nDISEASES OF PARROTS, \n\nIn summer it is well to scald \n\nout the cup for soft food each \n\n\' \' day, and in winter at least once \n\na week. Looseness of the bowels is the most common and \n\ndangerous ill that parrot-flesh is heir to, and nothing causes \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n63 \n\n\n\nit sooner than sour food. Avoid zinc food-vessels \xe2\x80\x94 they \nare poisonous. \n\nA Parrot should be carefully placed in the sunniest nook, \nand scrupuously secured from cold draughts ; but these un- \nfortunate natives of the hottest countries in the world are \ntoo often left hanging before open windows on chilly nights, \nand placed before chinks and crevices, through which there \nis sufficient draught to turn a windmill. The best treatment \ngoes for nothing, unless a Parrot is kept warm in chilly \nweather. \n\nInsufficient attention to clean- \nliness will cause sore feet. A \nParrot\'s perch should be mova- \nble; and scraped and scalded at \nleast once a week. The feet \nshould be cleansed, when dirty, \nwith a piece of flannel and Cas- \ntile soap. Parrots are sometimes \nattacked by a disease that seems \nmuch the same as gout with us. \nThe feet and legs swell, and the \nbird is unable to grasp its perch \nproperly. The best remedy is, \nto place the cage in a tub of \nwarm water, and making her \nstand up to her thighs fifteen \nminutes, and then wipe them dry; \nand keep her the rest of the day \nbefore a pretty hot fire. If there \nare sores on the feet, apply a lit- \ntle sugar to them. Mix a tea- \nspoonful of Bird Bitters in the soft food daily. \n\nSore eyes may proceed from cold or improper food. \nWhen the rims are red and inflamed, bathe them with a \nwarm decoction of white hellebore. It is deadly poison, so \nbe careful that the bird does not drink it. \n\nSome Parrots are subject to fits. They will tumble off \ntheir perches, and, after a few convulsive struggles, lie as if \ndead. When this happens, squirt the coldest water you can \nget, over her head. If she does not revive, take her by the \nlegs, and dip her three or four times into cold water. If she \nshould still remain insensible, pluck out a tail feather, or \ncut one of her claws so as to cause it to bleed. If she does \n\n\n\n\nNO. 2. \n\n\n\n64 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n\nnot then recover, you have a choice of two things\xe2\x80\x94 to have \n\nlier buried or stuffed. Nothing is -so \n\nlikely to produce fits as costiveness, \n\nand you may know when a bird is so \n\nafflicted by her constant efforts to \n\nevacuate. For this, give three drops of \n\ncastor oil. It is no easy matter to \n\nadminister castor oil to a full-grown \n\nand strong-beaked Parrot, unless you \n\nknow how. The proper way is to have \n\na piece of hard wood, about a quarter \n\nof an inch thick and three-quarters of \n\nan inch wide ; in the centre bore a hole. \n\nOpen the Parrot\'s beak, sHp in the \n\nwood, and put a quill or a glass tube \n\nthrough the hole, and then drop the NO. 3. \n\ncastor oil into the tube. \nThe plucking out of the feathers is nearly always caused \n\nby indulgence in animal food, or too much hemp seed. The \n\nbest thing to do is to bathe the bare places with a decoction \n\nofdilutedoxgall, \nand diet the \nbirds on plain \ncanary seed, and \nput a teaspoon - \nful of Bird Bitters \ndaily in the soft \nfood. \n\nImpure water, \nstale food, or \nwant of sand, \nwill produce sur- \nfeit. The head, \nand sometimes \nthe back , be- \ncomes covered \nwith angry sores, \nwhich discharge \na humor of so \nacrid a character \nthat wherever it \nruns it removes \nDissolve a quarter of a pound of salt or half a \n\n\n\n\nNO. 4. \n\n\n\nthe feathers. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD COMPANY\'S BOOK OP CAGE BIRDS. 65 \n\n\n\npound of loaf sugar in a quart of water, and bathe \nthe parts affected twice \na day. Dry the sores thor- \noughly, and anoint them \nwith olive oil. The diet \nshould be as simple as pos- \nsible. Boiled rice, contain- \ning a teaspoonful of Parrot \nFood, and half a teaspoon- \nful of Bird Bitters, is the \nbest food, while the surfeit \ncontinues, and nothing else \nshould be given, but keep \nthe bird warm. \n\nThe want of proper \nwarmth will sometimes pro- \nduce inflammation. The \nsymptoms are, melancholy, \nand a disposition to go to \nroost while it is yet day- \nlight. If you blow up the \nfeathers of the belly, you \nwill find the extreme parts \n\n\n\n\nNO. 5. \n\n\n\nmuch swollen, and a multitude of tiny red veins showing \n\nthrough the skin. This is a \ndangerous malady, and \nshould be seen to in time. \nIf the bird\'s bowels are re- \nlaxed, give him, until better, \nas much magnesia as can be \npiled on a nickel, mixed in \nhis soft food. A piece of \nsugar cane is most excellent \nfor this disease. Feed on \nParrot Food in which plenty \nof maw seed has been sprin- \nkled. \n\nThe most healthy birds \nwill sometimes be troubled \nwith ugly wart-like excres- \nences. Occasionally they \nwill grow as large as a pigeon\'s eg:g. Pass a piece of fine \nsilk cord round the base of the tumor, and at each end of \n\n\n\n\nNO. o. \n\n\n\n66 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nthe cord make a loop\'; secure the cord around the excres- \ncence by passing a small wooden peg through the loops ; \nevery other morning giv\'e the peg a twist, so as to draw the \ncord a little tighter, and in a short time the tumor will \nwither and fall off. Providing you manage the tightening \nof the cord with care, the operation will be attended with \nlittle or no pain. It will, however, be a long time \xe2\x80\x94 indeed, \nnot till the next moult \xe2\x80\x94 before the bald place caused by the \ntumor will be covered with feathers. \n\nDuring the moulting period, Parrots \nrequire great care and attention. Some- \ntimes considerable pain and difficulty \nattend the operation, and two or even \nthree months will be thus miserably \npassed by the poor bird. The only way \nin which you can aid him is \nby giving him extra nourishment, and \nkeeping him as warm as possible. It is \na good plan to cover the cage entirely \nwith brown paper. Add plenty of Parrot \nFood to the soft food, and a teaspoon- \nful of Bird Bitters daily. A biscuit, \n(without seeds) soaked in milk, in which \na few pepper pods have been boiled, is \na good thing to give occasionally. \n\nScouring is caused either by a sudden \nchange of diet or through taking sour \nfruit, or some other improper food. The \nsymptoms are a drooping tail, a tena- \ncious white excrement adhering to the \nfeathers beneath the tail, and a general \nuneasiness exhibited by the bird. The hinder parts, which \nwill be found to be much inflamed, should be anointed with \npaim-oil ; give maw seed and a pepper pod, and put Bird \nBitters in the soft food. \n\nAnother of the diseases to which Parrots are subject, is \nasthma. This either arises from an undue allowance of \nheating food, or through cold. The symptoms are shortness \nof breath, and a frequent disposition of the bird to gape. _ If \nthe attack is but slight, it may be cured by altering the diet, \ntaking care that a good portion of his food is of a moist and \nwarm character. If the bird is very ill, make a stiff paste of \nboiling milk and wheat flour, and add a tablespoonful of \n\n\n\n\nNO. 7. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n67 \n\n\n\nParrot Food, and a teaspoonful of Bird Bitters, \nnothing else for at least three days. \n\n\n\nGive him \n\n\n\nCAGES FOR PARROTS. \n\n\n\nOf these there is an infinite variety to select from, at a \nrange of prices from ^2.50 to $25.00. In buying a cage three \nthings should be borne in mind : \nthat it is large enough for the bird ; \nthat the fastenings are such that \nthe Parrot cannot undo them ; and \nthat the doors are well secured. \nWe illustrate several of the best \nstyles. No. i is constructed with \nbrass rails and tinned wire, with \nsecure fastenings for cups and \ndoor, and bars riveted. It comes \nin five sizes : A, 12 inches diame- \nter, I2.50; B, 13 inches diameter, \n$3.00 ; C, 14 inches diameter, I3.50 ; \nD, 16 inches diameter, $4.50 ; E, \n18 inches diameter, I5.50. \n\nNo. 2 is of solid brass, with \nenamelled cups ; size, 25 inches \nhigh, and 18 inches in diameter. \nPrice, $9.00. This is the most \nstylish Parrot cage made. No. 3 \nis of tinned wire, with brass trim- \nmings, and enamelled cups and \nbase; height, 28 inches ; diameter, \n20 inches. Price, I7.00. No. 4 is \nof a most excellent shape. The \nframe is made of brass, with tinned \nwires, revolving porcelain-lined \niron feed-cups, and black walnut \nbottom, with drawers. It comes in two sizes : A is i5>^Xi3 \ninches, I8.50; B, 20X14^2 inches, |;io.oo. No. 5 is of \ntin-plated wires, run through holes drilled in solid brass \nwires, making the cage indestructible ; revolving feed cups \nof porcelain-lined iron. It is in four sizes: A, 12 inches \ndiameter, ^3.00 ; B, 13 inches diameter, ^4.00 ; C, 15 inches \ndiameter, $5.00 ; D, 16 inches diameter, $6.00. With brass \ntop and enamelled bottom, the prices are 75c. per size \nhigher. In No. 5 the frame work is of brass, the wires of \n\n\n\n\nNO. 8. \n\n\n\n68 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\ntinned wire, and the base is of oil-finished walnut ; \nenameled cups and strong grating in the bottom. It is in \ntwo sizes : 20X22, |io.oo ; 22X24, |ii.oo. No. 7 is a parrot \nstand of brass, with bronze foot-piece, and black-enameled \nmoveable tray ; the perch is of wood, and the feed cups are \nenameled ; there is a brass chain to attach to the parrot\'s \nfoot; the height to the cups is 46 inches. Price, ^11.00; \nwithout swing, I9.50. This is the finest perch manufactured. \nNo. 8 is a tin stand, with brass chain ; 40 inches high, |4,oo. \n\n\n\nTHE COCKATOOS. \n\n\n\nThese curious members of the Parrot "family are easily \n\ntamed and although the> \nrarely make good talkers, \nthey become very affec- \ntionate towards their keep- \ner. The most common of \nthe species, the Sulphur \nCrested Cockatoo, is a \nsplendid bird. The plum- \nage is snowy white with a \ntinge of lemon on the \nfeathery crown that sur- \nmounts the head and \nwhich he can expand at \npleasure. The longest \nfeathers of the crest meas- \nures about seven inches. \nHe should be k-ept on a \nperch and treated as di- \nrected for Parrots. The \nprice of a good specimen \nranges from I15.00 to $2,0.00. \n\nThe Rose Breasted Cockatoo is no larger than & Gray \nParrot. The back and tail is of a soft dove color, while the \nbreast and crest is of a beautiful rose. They often make \nmost excellent talkers and are very affectionate when thor- \noughly tamed. They should be kept in an ordinary parrot \ncage, and require a diet of canary seed and the soft food \ndescribed under the general management of Parrots. The \nprice ranges from |i2.oo to I15.00. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 69 \n\nTHE BLUE MOUNTAIN LORY. \n\n\n\nThe Lory is of slighter build than other Parrots. The beak \nis more oval and slender and is prolonged before coming \nto a point. \n\nThe Blue Mountain Lory is the variety most commonly \nmet with. His size is about that of a Pigeon and the plum- \nage is of a most gorgeous and commingled blue, scarlet, \npurple, and yellow. He will if patiently taught, learn to \narticulate words and even sentences. He should be kept \nin a cage such as is illustrated as adapted for Cockateels, \nthe cost of which is $5.50. Feed him on plain canary seed, \n;md occasionally ripe fruits of any kind. The price of a good \noecimen is ^13.00. \n\n\n\nTHE CUBAN PARROT. \n\n\n\n1 hese Parrots are brought here in vast quantities every year \nfrom Cuba ; and, although rather small birds, they make \nmost excellent talkers, and learn very readily. They are \ngreen in plumage, with markings of black, and have a face \nof rose, edged with white. They require a rather small \ncage, and the treatme#it they need differs in no way from the \ngeneral rules laid down previously. A good specimen, in \nthe Fall, is worth I5.00 ; and the price advances towards \nChristmas to $8.00. \n\nThe Trinidad Parrot resembles the above in color and \nsize, but has not the rose face ; the price is the same. \n\n\n\nTHE GRAY PARROT. \n\n\n\nThis bird, both on account of its docility, when tamed, \nand its superior intelligence, is among the foremost of the \nParrot. In size, the Gray Parrot varies from nine to twelve \ninches in length. Its bill is black, strong, and much hooked, \nand the orbits and space between them is covered with a \nbald white skin. The entire body is of a pearl gray, and \n\n\n\n70 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nthe tail of a deep bright scarlet. When properly treated, it \nis one of the most healthy and longest- \nlived of Parrots, It makes a most excel- \nlent whistler, and will readily pick up \ntaking airs that are repeatedly whistled \nto it. Never give a Gray Parrot water, \nto drink, as it requires none, except such \nas is in the soft food described. \n\nA healthy young bird is worth $12.00 to \n$18.00. In buying a Gray Parrot, be care- \nful not to get one that has been brought \nfrom Liverpool on a steamer. These \nbirds are always stowed in an unventi- \nlated box, and kept in the engine-room, \nwhere they get impregnated with smoke \nand soot, and blood poisoning thus con- \ntracted, soon carries them off, even if seemingly healthy \nwhen bought. The healthy birds are brought on sailing \nvessels, direct from Africa to this country. \n\nWe illustrate a stylish cage for a Gray Parrot. It is made \nof solid brass throughout, and has horizontal instead of ver- \ntical bars. The swing and perches are of hard wood, and \nthe feed cups are enameled. Price, $9.00. \n\n\n\n\nTHE BLUE HEAD AMAZON PARROT. \n\n\n\nThis variety resembles the Yellow Head Parrot in every- \nthing excepting the head, which is blue and yellow instead \nof all yellow. The same sort of a cage or stand is required \nas for other Parrots of similar size. They make excellent \ntalkers, and are worth from |8.oo to |i2.oo each. \n\n\n\nAlways bear in mind in buying a Parrot, to get it from a \nreliable dealer. An unhealthy bird can be doctored up by \nmeans of drugs so as to be seemingly healthy for a little \nwhile, only to relapse into a state of chronic helplessness \nafter the effects of the stimulants have passed off. It is \nalways better to pay a few dollars more than to run the risk \nof getting such a bird, and thousands of such are yearly \npalmed off on the unwary. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE MACAW. \n\n\n\n71 \n\n\n\nThis is the largest of the Parrot family and some kinds \nattain the immense size of three feet. \nThey are among the most gaudily \nplumaged of birds ; the variety most \ncommon being of a brilliant blue and \nyellow! \n\nThe upper part of this species \nis of a fine blue, more or less \ntinted with green, while the lower \npart from the breast downwards is a \nlight orange yellow. The bill is en- \ntirely black, being large and strong \nand considerably hooked in shape. \nMacaws can be readily distinguished \nfrom the rest of the Parrot tribe, by \nthe face being entirely bald, or at most \nfurnished with a few spare lines of \nfeathers. \n\nThe Macaw should always be \nchained to a perch, as in a cage its \nplumage is likely to be broken and \ninjured. The perch should be strongly \nmade, and all parts within reach of \nthe Macaw\'s powerful beak, covered \nwith tin or thin sheet brass, as a \nwooden perch will be destroyed by a \nmischievous bird in a few hours. We \nwill furnish a suitable perch with \nchain for attaching to the bird\'s foot \nfor |6.oo. In summer the perch can \nbe kept out of doors all the time, a \nroof being hung over it to protect \nthe bird from the rain. \nIf bought when young, this showy \nbird can sometimes be taught to repeat words and senten- \nces, but if older it is a hopeless task to get it to utter any- \nthing except its own hideous shriek. \n\nThe diet should be coarse, and consist mainly of corn and \ncrackers. It is very fond of nuts, the hardest of which are \nreadily cracked by its iron-like bill. \nA young male Macaw is worth from $15.00 to 1125.00. \n\n\n\n\n72 BIKU FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTHE YELLOW-HEAD MEXICAN PARROT. \n\n\n\nIn the United States this species is, without doubt, the \n\nmost popular of Parrots, \nand is the most fluent \ntalker and the most easily- \ntaught. In our opinion \nthe ISlexican Parrot is the \nbest talking bird in exist- \nence, and should be \nranked even before the \nGray Parrot. They are \nlarger than the Gray \nParrot, and are a beau- \ntiful green in color, with \nbright red on the edges \nof the wings and tail. \nSome Parrots of this \nspecies are very fond of \nbathing and should be \noften indulged in this \ncleanly habit, and when \nthey will not bathe of \ntheir own free will, ex- \npose to a warm shower \nin summer or a bath ap- \nplied by a garden syringe. There are two kinds, the \nDOUBLE YELLOW head and the single yellow head ; the \nformer being the better bird of the two, and a healthy young \nspecimen of which is worth |i2.oo to ^i8.oo. A Single Yel- \nlow Head is worth |io.oo to I15.00. These are the prices \nfor bright, active birds. \n\nTalking birds of either of these varieties are worth from \nS25.00 up to the most fabulous prices. We know of one \nMexican Parrot of the Double Head kind that can sing por- \ntions of over a dozen popular songs, and there is hardly a \nday passes that she does not add some word or sentence to \nher already large vocabulary. Five hundred dollars have \nbeen offered and refused for this wonderful bird. \n\nNever teach a young Parrot the silly phrases " Pretty \nPolly;" "Polly wants a cracker," etc., but rather call your \nbird by some other name than Polly, and learn it something \nless stale, flat, and unprofitable than such nonsense. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 73 \n\nTHE AVIARY. \n\n\n\n\nOf a bird-room we rarely hear in an American home, but \nin Europe there are thousands of by no means wealthy peo- \nple whose delight it is to keep, to rear, and to study birds. \nThere, a gentleman\'s mansion is no more complete without \nan Aviary than it would be here without a conservatory. \n\nBut the custom of keeping birds is growing in this country \nin a surprising manner, and it will not be many years before \nthe pleasing practice will be as popular here as it is on the \nother side of the Atlantic \n\nAn Aviary is most suitable and beautiful when constructed \nsimilar to a conservatory, with glass roof and sides; but any \nordinary room that has a sunny outlook will answer. The \nfloor should be covered with white sea or river sand to the \ndepth of a couple of inches. There is no necessity to \nrenew this oftener than twice a year, but it should be \n\n\n\n74 \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\nraked once a week, with a fine rake ; and once a month \nshoveled up and run through a sieve, by which means all the \nexcrement and dirt can be removed. A door of wire \nscreen should be at the entrance, so that the birds can be \nobserved without unnecessarily disturbing them ; and the \nwindows also covered with wire netting, so that air can get \ninto the room when the weather is warm. \n\xe2\x96\xa0 Around the walls should be ranged low evergreen shrubs. \nThey can be cut off near the roots, and kept upright by any \nof the devices used for Christmas trees ; or, if planted in pots \nor boxes, and occasionally wet, they will keep green for \nmany months. Several cedar or similar trees should be \nplaced down the middle of th*^ room. Ivy will grow along \nthe walls, but it takes several years tor it to become of con- \nsiderable size. One \nor two stone foun- \ntains, similar to \nthose described un- \nder "Fine Bred \nPoultry," should be \nplaced on the floor, \nfor their drinking \nwater. These foun- \ntains are so con- \nstructed as to supply \nthe water only as fast \nas drank, thus pre- \nventing the birds \nfrom fouling it. Seed \ncan also be kept in \nthese fountains, but \nwhen used for this purpose, they should be placed on a shelf, \nout of the reach of stray mice. Nest boxes can be arranged \naround the walls and in quiet corners. These can be made \nof cigar boxes, or cocoanut shells, or we will furnish wire \nones made for fastening against the walls, at lo cents each. \nMany of the birds will build their nests in the evergreens. \n\nA tray of tin should be made to fit one of the window \nledges, in which the bathing dishes can be placed, and \nthereby preventing the spilled water from wetting the sand \non the floor. Around the wall, at different heights, arrange \nwooden ledges so that the birds may have other places to \nalight besides the floor and trees. \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 75 \n\nThe room can be readily heated in the winter by a gas or \noil stove ; but care should be taken to have it protected with \nwire gauze, so that the birds cannot fly against the hot sur- \nface, and burn themselves. \n\nIn such a room as described, soft-biiled and seed-eating \nbirds will live amicably together, make sweet music, and \nbuild nests and rear their young. Should any bird or pair \nof birds prove on introduction into an Aviary to be quarrel- \nsome with their associates, remove it or them at once before \nsome of the smaller birds are killed or nests and eggs de- \nstroyed. A mischievous bird will sometimes do untold \ndamage in an Aviary. A very fair collection to start with \ncan be bought for $50.00, as follows : \n\nSix Canary hens, I4.50; a male Canary, I2.50; a male \nGoldfinch, |i. 50; a male Linnet, |i. 50; a male Chaffinch, \nI1.50 ; a male Siskin, $1.50; a male Bullfinch, I3.50. Some \nof these birds may mate with the canary hens, and produce \nvaluable mules. A pair of Java Sparrows, $4.00 ; a pair of \nAustralian Parrakeets, $7.00; three pairs of African Finches, \nof different kinds, $12.00; and a pair of Cockateels, |i2.oo. \n\nThese are all seed-eating birds, and will breed in confine- \nment. By carefully reading the articles on the different \nspecies of birds, you can readily tell whether or not any \ncertain one of them is suited for the Aviary. \n\nAn Aviary can be built out of doors, and glass frames con- \nstructed for use in winter. Nearly all varieties of birds, \nexcepting those from the hottest countries, will live in such \nan Aviary without artificial heat. \n\nWe are prepared to furnish plans to build ; and arrange and \nstock Aviaries on any scale desired. Plans for aviarieswith \ninstructions for building, arranging and stocking, sent by \nmail at reasonable prices. \n\nA collection of birds may be kept in a large cage, such as \nis illustrated at the beginning of this article. It is 30 inches \nhigh, 25 inches long, and 15 inches wide; of close brass \nwires, and black walnut bottom. It will accommodate 40 \nbirds. Price, $25.00. \n\nThe other illustration represents an Aviary cage, 27 inches \nhigh, 24 inches long, and 24 inches wide. It is made of best \nquality spring brass wire, and walnut base. There is also a \nsmaller size, holding 15 birds, at $10.00. Walnut cages, with \niron wire, can be made to order, of any size, and with any \nwidth of wire at low prices. \n\n\n\n1^ \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nTRAPPING BIRDS. \n\n\n\n-/O \n\n\n\nOur woods and fields are full of birds that make most \nbeautiful pets, when caged. They can be trapped in many \nways. One of the best is by the use of the trap -cage here- \nwith illustrated ; and in \nthe lower part of which a \nsinging bird, of the same \nspecies as those you de- \nsire to capture, should be \nplaced; the trap set, and \nsome attractive food \nscattered about. If a live \nbird cannot be had, a \nstuffed one will answer, \nthough not likely to be as \nsuccessful. If a nest of \nyoung birds are placed in \nthe trap-cage, the parents \ncan be readily caught. \n\nBird Lime is one of the \neasiest and surest ways of \ntrapping birds. We sup- . \nply it, already prepared, \nfor 25c. per can. The \nmanner of using it is very simple. A bundle of long elastic \nswitches are cut from a willow or birch tree, smeared over \nwdth the Bird Lime, and stuck into the ground, a few inches \napart, in the form of an oval. Inside of this a live bird is \nplaced, with its wings fastened to its body by means of a \nrubber band, or a stuffed bird can be used. The bushes and \nlower branches of near growing trees, upon which the birds \nare likely to alight, should also be coated with the Bird \nLime. Tempting food should be scattered about the limed \nswitches. As soon as the feet, wings, or feathers of a bird \ntouches the Bird Lime, he is held a prisoner, and should be \ntaken off at once, before his plumage becomes coated with \nthe sticky substance. A stuffed owl will attract hosts of \nsmall birds to the limed twigs. We can furnish stuffed \nspecimens of almost any variety of small birds, and send \nthem by mail for $1.25 each ; owls, $3.50 each. \n\nWhen birds are first put into a cage, a rubf ^r band should \nv>e slipped over their bod> lo.d wings, to p ^nt them fiut- \n\n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. 77 \n\ntering, and the cages placed in a darkened room, away from \nall bustle and noise, until they become accustomed to cage \nlife. \n\nSoft-billed birds make better songsters and become more \ntame, when taken from the nest, just as the tail feathers be- \ngin to grow, and raised by hand. They should be kept in \na soft cotton nest, and fed upon a paste made as follows : \nUpon stale wheat bread pour boiling milk, and after it \nbecomes soft, squeeze dry, and mix with the yolk of a hard- \nboiled egg, and a little finely-shredded lean raw meat. This \nmust be prepared fresh every day. Nestlings should be fed \na little at a time, but often, and water can be dropped into \ntheir open mouths from a quill. Ev^en after they can feed \nthetnselves, it is advisable to continue hand-feeding, as it \nmakes them grow more rapidly, and keeps them in good \ncondition. \n\n\n\nSTUFFING BIRDS. \n\n\n\nPeople who have become attached to a bird, generally \ndesire to have it stuffed when it dies ; but those who live re- \nmote from cities, have hitherto been unable to have them \nstuffed. We are able to obviate this difficulty by giving \ndirections for preserving the dead body, so that it can be \nsent from anywhere in the United States, reached by express \nand it will come to us sufficiently preserved to stuff. As \nsoon as the bird dies, inject into its throat and arms, by \nmeans of a syringe, a weak solution of carbolic acid, care \nbeing taken not to get any on the plumage. Then pack it \nin crushed charcoal, and send to us by express. The \ncharge for stuffing a bird, the size of a Canary, is |r.oo; one \nas large as a Robin, I1.50, the size of an, Owl I3.50. The \nprice for stuffing animals varies from |;i.ooto $100. Glass \nshades for mounted Canaries, to keep off the dust, are \nworth |i. 00 each; next size, $1.50, and a size large enough \nfor an Owl, fo.oo. \n\nWe can supply almost all species of birds and animals \nfor collections, mounted in the most artistic and life-like \nmanner at prices ranging from 50c. to $100. \n\nMoney must accompany all birds or animals sent to us to \nbe stuffed. This we require as an evidence of good faith- \n\n\n\n78 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nCAGE FIXTURES. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 1. \n\n\n\n\n\nNO. 2. \n\n\n\n\n\nNo. 8. \n\n\n\nNO. 3. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 4. \n\n\n\n\n\nNO. 9. \n\n\n\nNO. 5. NO. 6. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 7. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 10. \n\n\n\n\nNO. II. \n\n\n\nBIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\n\n\n79 \n\n\n\nEngravings i, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 represent different styles \nof cage cups. All are worth loc. each, and 3c. per cup extra \nis required when ordered by mail. \n\nNo. 8, chain for suspending a cage. Price, per foot, with \nring and catch, loc. Can be sent by mail for 2c. extra per \nfoot. \n\nNo. 9.\xe2\x80\x94 Cage bracket of lacquered iron. Price, 20c. ; by \n\nmail, 30C. . \n\nNo. 10.\xe2\x80\x94 Cage bracket, that screws into tne wall. Price, \nloc; by mail, 20c, \n\nNo. II.\xe2\x80\x94 Swinging cage bracket, of bronzed metal, 25c.; \nby mail, 35c. This bracket can be made to point in any \ndirection. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 12. \n\n\n\nNO. 13. \n\n\n\n\nNO. 15. NO. 16. \n\n\n\nNO. 14. \n\n\n\nNo. 12.\xe2\x80\x94 Spring bracket, that sways the cage as the bird \nhops about, 20c.; by mail, 30c. \n\nNo. 13.\xe2\x80\x94 Brass chain, natural size, very strong, loc. per \nfoot ; by mail, 2c. per foot extra. Ring and catch, 5c. extra. \n\nNo. 14.\xe2\x80\x94 Brass chain, natural size, very strong, loc. per \nfoot ; by mail, 2c. per foot extra. Ring and catch, 5c. extra. \n\nNo. 15.\xe2\x80\x94 Brass chain, natural size, 5c. per foot ; by mail, \nic. per foot extra. Ring and catch, 5c. extra. \n\nNo. 16.\xe2\x80\x94 Cage spring of brass, 25c.; by mail, 2C. extra. \nSilver-plated spring, 40c. \n\n\n\n80 BIRD FOOD company\'s BOOK OF CAGE BIRDS. \n\nBrass wire cage guard, for preventing birds from scatter- \ning seed from their cages, 50c. per yard. Ten cents per \nyard extra when sent by mail. \n\nFeed Cups, all styles, except those used for Osborne \ncages, IOC for either glass or opal. Osborne or Monogram \ncups, 15c. each ; 25c. per pair. Mocking Bird cups, with \nwire attachment for food or water, 15c. each, or 25c. per pair. \nBottles for Breeding Cages, loc. each. Tin food boxes for \nParrots, loc. each. All the above, 5c. each extra when sent \nby mail. \n\nBath Dishes. \xe2\x80\x94 Opal glass for Canaries, two sizes : ist \nsize, IOC, 2d size, 12c. Size for Mocking Birds, 25c. each. \nAll the above, 5c. each extra, when sent by mail. \n\nCage Mats of tin, for the bottom of brass cages, all sizes, \nround, loc; square, 15c. The cost to send by piail is 5c. \neach. \n\nBreeding Nests, of willow, 6c; vermin proof wins, loc; \nwire nests, with back, to fasten against the wall, loc. \nPostage, 2C. extra. \n\nPerches, for brass canary cages, cedar, metal tipped, 5c \neach ; for mocking bird cages, 12c. ; for parrot cages, t2C. \nPerch sticks, 2c. per foot. Postage, 2c. on small perches, \nand 5c. on parrot perches. \n\nSwings for canary cages, of brass wire with cedar stick, \n5c.; for parrot cages, 15c. to 25c. Postage on small swings, \n2C.; large swings, 3c. to loc \n\nBird Foods. \xe2\x80\x94 Mixed Seed, per quart, 20c. Plain Canary \nSeed, per quart, 20c. Russian Hemp, per quart, 15c. Ger- \nman Rape, per quart, 20c German Millet, per quart, 20c. \nTurkish Maw, per pound, 25c. Lettuce, per pound, 40c. \nSunflower, per quart, 35c. Unhulled Rice, per quart, \n20C. Blue Maw Meal, per pound, 25c. Pea Meal, per \npound, IOC Hemp Meal, per pound, 20c. Ground Zwie- \nback,* per pound, i8c. Ground Bullock Heart, per \npound, 50C. Ant Eggs, per ounce, loc. Cuttle Bone, \neach 5c; per pound, 50c. Fish Food, per box, loc \nMocking Bird Food, per jar, 35c. Parrot Food, per box, \n15c. Bird Manna, each, 15c. Bird Bitters, per bottle, \n25c. Mite Exterminator, per bottle, 25c Meal Worms, \nper hundred, 25c. \n\nAny special design, shape, or size of cage for birds or \nanimals, made to order at short notice and at reasonable \nprices. \n\n\n\nLIST OF HIGH-CLASS POULTRY. \n\nHIGH-CLASS POULTRY. \n\n\n\n8i \n\n\n\n\nWe deal in all kinds of fine-bred land and water fowl, and \nare prepared to fill all orders at short notice. The prices \nquoted below are for good specimens. Exhibition fowl are \nworth more, and parties desiring such should write to us, \nstating exactly what they want, and we will quote prices by \nreturn mail. No charge will be made for boxing and deliv- \nering at the express office. \n\nA trio of fowl consists of two hens and one rooster; thir- \nteen eggs are given to a sitting. Our eggs for hatching, \nare from the finest strains in the country. \n\nLeghorns: \xe2\x80\x94 There are three varieties of this breed; \nWhite, Brown, and Black ; all are the best of layers, and \nare non-sitters. The first two are worth |6.oo per trio, \nrooster, I3.00 each, and eggs, $2.00 per sitthig. Black Leg- \nhorns, $10.00 per trio ; rooster, I3.00; eggs, $2.00 per sitting. \n\nPlymouth Rocks. \xe2\x80\x94 This is emphatically the farmers\' \nfowl ; they are of good size, excellent layers, and the chick- \nens mature early. Per trio, $9.00 ; roosters, $4.00 ; eggs per \nsitting, $2.50. \n\nBrahmas, both light and dark, are most excellent fowls, \nbeing very large, and quite good layers. Price. |;i2.oo per \ntrio, for either variety ; roosters, I5.00 each ; and eggs I3.00 \nper sitting. \n\nBlack Spanish are once more springing into popularity. \nThey are prolific layers, and their flesh is very tender, and \n\n\n\n82 LIST OF HIGH-CLASS POITLTRY. \n\nmost excellent eating. Price, per trio, $8.00 ; roosters, I3.00 ; \neggs for hatching, $2.00. \n\nGame. \xe2\x80\x94 There is an almost endless variety of the breed. \nWe can furnish any kind from $5.00 to |i2.oo per trio ; j^2.oo \nto I5.00 for a rooster, and $2.00 to ^4.00 per sitting of eggs. \nIn ordering, please mention if you desire birds for ornamen- \ntal purposes, or those that will stand "steel." \n\nLangsangs. \xe2\x80\x94 This is a large breed, black in color, that \nhas been but recently introduced. Per trio, |i2.oo ; rooster, \nI4.00 ; eggs per sitting, I3. 00. \n\nCochins are of four kinds: White, Buff, Partridge, \nand Black. They are very popular fowl, and deservedly \nso. Each of the varieties is worth $12.00 per trio ; I4.00 for \na rooster, and $2.50 per sitting of eggs. \n\nHamburgs are very ornamental, excellent layers, and of \nmedium size. There are seven varieties, white, black, silver \nspangled, golden spangled, golden penciled, silver span- \ngled. Price, per trio, |8.oo ; rooster, $3.00 ; per sitting of \neggs, $2.00. \n\nDoMiNiQUES have many admirers ; they are about the size \nof Leghorns, which they much resemble in shape and laying \nqualities. Price, per trio, |6,oo ; rooster, ^3.00 ; per sitting \nof eggs, I2.00. \n\nHoudans, Crevecoures, and La Fleche are curious \nfowl, of French extraction. They are excellent layers, and \nvery ornamental. Price, I9.00 per trio ; rooster, $4.00 ; eggs \nper sitting, I3.00. \n\n^ Dorkings, both white and gray, are among the most de- \nsirable of fowl for spring-chicken raising. They are heavily \nfleshed, and mature early. Per trio, |i2.oo; rooster, ^5.00; \neggs for sitting, I3.00. \n\nPoLANDS are of medium size, with a crown of feathers on \nthe head. They are white, white-crested black, black, \nand golden. Price, per trio |;8.6o ; rooster, I3.00 ; eggs per \nsitting, $2.50. \n\nBantams, of all breeds, from I3.00 to |io.oo per trio ; roos- \nters, $1.00 to $4.00; eggs for hatching, $1.00 to I3.00 per \nsitting. \n\nDucks of all varieties, Ruen, Aylesbury, Pekin, etc., at \nprices that range from ^5.00 to $15.00 per trio ; eggs for \nhatching, $2.00 to I3.00 per sitting. \n\nGeese, of all kinds, from $10.00 to $25.00 per trio ; eggs \nlor hatching, $4.00 to $6.00 per sitting. \n\n\n\nLIST OF HIGH-CLASS POULTRY. 83 \n\nBronze Turkeys. \xe2\x80\x94 Large fowl are worth I20.00 per trio ; \nextra gobblers, $7.cx) each ; eggs, $5.00 per sitting. \n\nGuinea Fowl are worth |6.oo per trio ; cocks, $3.00 ; \neggs, |2,oo per sitting. The White variety, I9.00 per trio ; \ncocks, I4.00 ; eggs, I3.00 per sitting. \n\nPeafowl are worth |i 5.00 per pair; eggs, I5.00 per sitting. \nWhite Peafowl, I50.00 for a male, or 1:75.00 per pair. \n\nSwans. \xe2\x80\x94 We can import these beautiful fowl, at six \nweeks\' notice, for ^75.00 per pair for White, and $100 per \npair for Black. \n\nPheasants. \xe2\x80\x94 The English Variety, |io.oo to 1125.00 \nper pair; Chinese Silver and Golden, ^25.00 to I50.00 \nper pair. \n\nWood Ducks, the most beautiful of all the family, and \neasily domesticated. |io to I15 per pair for specimens in \nperfect plumage. \n\nSilkies are curious fowl, white in color, the plumage of \nwhich resembles hair. Per trio, $10.00 to $25.00 ; eggs, per \nsitting, $5.00. \n\nRuMPLESs fowl have no tail or rump ; they are excellent \nlayers ; per trio, I9.00 ; roosters $4.00 ; eggs, per sitting, I2.50. \n\nNewly Hatched Chickens or Ducks for Easter \npresents ; 25c. each. \n\n\n\nStone Drinking Fountains, for fowl and Pigeons. \nOne quart, 35c.; half gallon, 70c.; gallon, |i.oo; two gallons, \n$1.50. Broken bone for fowl, 4c. per pound. \n\ndiseases of poultry. \n\nFor that dread disease, chicken cholera, we recommend \nour Chicken Cholera Pills as the best specific ever dis- \ncovered. It will also cure roup and almost all other dis- \neases that chicken flesh is heir to. Price 25c. per box. Can \nbe had of drugj^istc or will be sent by mail on receipt of \nprice. Medicine in pills is more easily administered to \nfowl than in any other form. \n\nOur Poultry Powder, when mixed with corn meal and \nfed daily to hens, will increase their laying qualities in a \nwonderful degree. It will keep poultry always healthy and \nfree from disease, and promote the growth of young \nchickens in a remarkable manner. Price, 25c. per package, \nby mail, 40c. \n\n\n\n84 \n\n\n\nLIST OF SMALL PET ANIMALS. \n\nSMALL PET ANIMALS. \n\n\n\nRabbits should head this Hst, from their popularity. \nThere are quite a number of fancy breeds. The Lop-Eared, \nwhich have long, pendant ears. Prices, $5.00 to |25.ooper pair. \nThe Angora, with long hair, usually white. Prices, I5.00 \nto |io,oo per pair. The Belgian Hare, the largest of all \nbreeds, much bred in Europe as food animals ; prices, ^5.00 \nto I25.00 per pair. Himalayan are a beautiful variety, \nsnow white, with nose, ears, feet, and tail black or brown. \nPrices, $5.00 to I15.00 per pair. Silver Gray have a coat \nof a beautiful silver-gray color. Prices, $5 to I15 per pair. \nDutch are the smallest of all, weighing from two to four \npounds. Prices, $4.00 to $15.00 per pair. Common, of all \ncolors, $3.00 per pair for old, and I2.00 for young ones. \nGuinea Pigs rank next to Rabbits, and are generally the \n\nfirst of a boy\'s pets. \nCommon, are worth \nI2.50 for old, and I1.50 \nfor young ones. Pure \nWhite, with pink eyes, \nI5.00 per pair. Abyssin- \nian, the hair of which \nappears as if brushed \nthe wrong w^ay, $5.00 to \n$10.00 per pair. \n\nWhite Mice are \npretty little creatures, with pink eyes, and can be readily \ntamed. Price, for old ones, per pair, $1.00 ; young ones, 50c. \nA cage to keep them, such as is shown in the engraving, is \nworth $1.00. \n\nWhite Rats are usually very amiable in disposition, and \nwill not bite. Per pair, for old ones, $3.00 ; young ones, \n$2.00. \n\nFerrets, trained or untrained, white or the fitch variety, \nare worth from ^10.00 to $20.00 per pair. \n\nSquirrels make very interesting pets, and can be easily \ntamed. They should be kept in a cage similar to the one \nillustrated. This style is made of the best quality tinned \nwire, with brass frame. Size for a Gray Squirrel, is worth \n$10.00; for Red Squirrel, $8.00; for Chip Squirrel, $5.00. \nA Gray Squirrel, is worth from $3.00 to $10,001 a Black Squir- \n\n\n\n\nWHITE mice cage. \n\n\n\nLIST OF SMALL PET ANIMALS. \n\n\n\n85 \n\n\n\n\nrel, I5.00 to $15.00 ; a Flying Squirrel, I3.00 to |io.oo; a Red \nSquirrel, $3.00 to $10.00 ; a Chip Squirrel, $2.00 to |6.oo ; \na White Squirrel, $25.00 to $100. The prices vary, according" \nto the tameness of the \nanimal; the lowest \nprices being for newly- \ncaught squirrels. \n\nMaltese Cats, full \ngrown or kittens, are \nworth, for the pure \nbreed without a white \nhair, $3.00 for males, \nand $1.50 for females. \n\nAngora Cats, pure \nwhite, with long hair, \ncan be imported at $50 \nfor males, and $25 for \nfemales, or $65 per pair. \nKittens about 15 per \ncent. less. Maltese c.mttot^ttt r-Ar-j? \n\nAngora Cats, as their squirrel cage. \n\nname signifies, are lonS-haired Maltese Cats. Males are \nworth I25 ; females, I15. Tiger Cats have stripes resem- \nbling a tiger. Males, $25 ; females, $15. \n\nMonkeys of small breeds make interesting, though not \nvery clean pets. The Ringtailed variety is one of the \nbest-tempered ; price, I15 to $30 each. \n\nMarmosets are pretty little creatures allied to the monkey \nfamily, about the size of a rat, with a long tail thickly covered \nwith hair. They make attractive and harmless pets. Price, \n$6.00 to $15 each. \n\nWe can generally supply, at short notice, all kinds of ani- \nmals ; such as Coons,Opossums, Prairie Dogs, Foxes,Deer,etc. \n\nOLD CAGES REFINISHED. \n\nBrass, Nickle, and Silver-plated Bird Cages, when tar- \nnished, can be made equal to new again. We charge, for \ndoing this, fli.oo for brass and nickle, and $2.00 for silver- \nplated cages. Persons living in the city can drop us a postal \ncard, and we will send after their cage, and loan them one \nin which to keep their bird until their own cage is refinished. \nThe time required is usually five days. \n\n\n\n86 LIST OF FANCY PIGEONS. \n\nFANCY PIGEONS. \n\n\n\n\nWe can supply all varieties of Pigeons, either high class \nor ordinary specimens. Before ordering, it will be better to \nwrite to us, stating the kind of birds desired ; and we will \nforward descriptions and prices. Almost all varieties of \nPigeons can be had of the following colors : black, silver, \nyellow, red, dun, and white. \n\nEnglish Carriers are of noble carriage and have a warty \nexcrescence on the beak and around the eyes. The beak is \nlong and straight. Prices range from I3.00 to $100 per pair. \n\nEnglish Barbs are stoutly built, with very short thick \nbeaks and warty circles about the eyes. They are of as \nmany colors as the Carrier, and prices range from I3.00 to \nI50.00 per pair. \n\nFantails are beautiful birds, with a wide fan-shaped tail, \nsome have a cap of feathers on the head. Their most com- \nmon and at the same time most beautiful color is white, \nalthough they are to be had in other colors. Prices range \nfrom I2.00 to I25.00 per pair. \n\nOwls are neat little Pigeons with short beaks and a rose- \nshaped cluster of feathers on the breast. Prices range from \nI2.00 to I25.00 per pair. African Owls are much smaller \nthan the ordinary variety, and are higher in price. \n\nTuRBiTS are similar in build to the Owl Pigeon, but the \nwings are colored, and contrast with a pure white body, \ntail, and wings ; they have crests on the head. There is a \nsolid-color variety. Prices range from I2.00 to $25.00 per \npair. \n\nRunts are the largest of pigeons, the Spanish variety, for \ninstance, being as large as a spring chicken. Prices range \nfrom I2.00 to I50.00 per pair. \n\n\n\nLIST OF FANCY PIGEONS. 87 \n\nTrumpeters are curious Pigeons. They can be had both \nmottled and of soHd color. The feathers of the head grow- \ndownward over the eyes, and the legs are heavily booted \nwith feathers. They make a curious booming noise, which \ncan be heard for a long distance. Prices, I2.50 to $25 per pair. \n\nPouters, sometimes called Croppers, stand upright like a \nperson, and they can inflate their crops at pleasure, until it \nis almost as large as a toy balloon ; the legs are booted with \nfeathers. Prices, $3.00 to I150 per pair. \n\nAlmond Tumblers are small Pigeons, with a short beak \nand face. They are of the color of an almond, and curious- \nly mottled. Prices. I3.00 to $50.00 per pair. \n\nBald Tumblers have a white head, tail, and wangs ; the \nrest of the body being of another color. Price, $2.00 to \nI15.00 per pair. \n\nBearded Tumblers have a triangular streak of white \nunder the throat ; the body being differently colored. Price, \n$2.00 to I15.00 per pair. \n\nCommon Tumblers turn somersaults in the air as they \nfly. Price, 75c. to I3.00 per pair. \n\nGround Tumblers have the tumbling quality so fully \ndeveloped that they cannot fly higher than a few feet from the \nfloor without turning a somersault. Prices, $2 to $10 per pair. \n\nMagpies, as their name indicates, are marked similar to a \nMagpie. They are to be had both crested, and with plain \nhead. Price, |2.oo to $10.00. \n\nNuns are of white and some other color, with a head like \na nun\'s hood. Price, $2.00 to |io.oo per pair. \n\nDuchesses are large Pigeons, with legs heavily booted \nwith feathers. Price, |i.oo to $5.00 per pair. \n\nAntwerps are used for carrying messages, and are known \noutside the fancy as carriers. Prices, |i.oo to $10 per pair. \n\nBlondinettes and Satinettes are, in shape, very simi- \nlar to the Owl Pigeon ; but their plumage is very beautiful \nand cunous. Prices, $5.00 to $25.00 per pair. \n\nCommon Pigeons, of all colors, good strong specimens \nare worth 50c. to 75c. per pair. \n\nArchangels are of very curious plumage, about the size \nof a Tumbler Pigeon. Prices, $2.00 to $5.00 per pair. \n\nSwallows have beautifully-contrasted plumage, and \nheavily-booted legs. Prices, $3.00 to $25.00 per pair. \n\nJacobins have a curious hood of feathers, that envelopes \nthe head and shoulders. Price, $3.00 to $15-00 per pair. \n\n\n\n88 JMANAGEMENT OF THE AQUARIUM. \n\nTHE FRESH WATER AQUARIUM. \n\n\n\nThe first consideration in the management of the Aqua- \nrium is, that the vessel used shall be free from contaminating \ninfluences: such as the oxidation of iron, or the poisons \ngiven off from mineral paints not sufficiently dried. For \niron, a covering of Portland cement is the most satisfactory \nprotection, if properly applied. Three coats of shellac var- \nnish answers very well, allowing each to dry thoroughly \nbefore applying the next. \n\nThe next consideration is position. As we are consider- \ning the Aquarium in its proper sense, as a self-sustaining \nadjustment of the relations between animal- and vegetable \nlife, plenty of daylight is essential to success, and, if possi- \nble, sunlight. The Aquarium, therefore, should be placed at a \nwindow. Plants will healthily grow only in the light. In \nthe hot season the Aquarium may be shielded from the rays \n\nof the mid-day sun by a screen of \npaper or cloth, of blue color. Blue is \nrecommended, as the result of ex- \nperience in preventing a too rapid \ngrowth of the green confervse on the \nsides of the Aquarium. As to tem- \nperature, it should range from fifty to \nseventy. Within that range, the \nlower the better. Of course, there \ncan be no absolute rule ; each indi- \n\nvidual, in the management of his or \n\nP her Aquarium, being restricted to the \n\n_ \' * conditions attainable, and success is \n\noften attained in violation of all rules. Fish show the same \n\nsigns of suffering, from excessive heat, as are shown by \n\nhuman beings : rapid respiration and lassitude. \n\nIn stocking the Aquarium, the clean silver sand, put up \nby us, pebbles, or pieces of rock may be used, as covering \nfor the bottom, and in which to imbed the plants, according \nas fancy may dictate. Shells should be avoided as being \ninjurious, from their salty nature. \n\nAs to plants, there are many which will thrive in the \nAquarium ; but that which is most popular, and which un- \ndoubtedly thrives best under all circumstances, is the \nMyriophylhiin spicatum or Water Milfoil, as it is called in \n\n\n\n\nMANAGEMENT OF THE AQUARIUM. \n\n\n\n89 \n\n\n\nEngland. This roots readily and quickly, whether imbedded \nin sand, or simply stuck into a terra-cotta ornament. The \nValisneria spiralis, the so-called Water Celery on which \nthe canvas-back duck feeds, only obtainable from May to \nNovember, is another of the valuable rooting plants. \nAnacharis Canadensis is another. Of those which do not \nroot, the Ceratrophylhini demersmn, or Marestail, and \nUtricularia ijijjata, or Bladder wort, are most desirable. \n\nTo those wishing simply an ornament or a toy, with a \nminimum of care, we recommend only the gold and sih^er \nfishes. They being vegetable feeders, will thrive on the \nprepared fish food sold by us for ten cents per box. \n\nTo those desiring an Aquarium possessing scientific in- \nterest or novelty, there is a great variety of fish, harmless \nreptiles, water beetles, etc., which are \nof much deeper interest in their habits \nthan the more showy goldfish, but \nwhich require to be fed on such food \nas is suited to their varied wants. \nSome of these will take meat, oyster, \netc., while others will refuse all but \nthat which they kill themselves. In \nfeeding fish, care should be taken to \nremove all that is not \'saten, before it \nhas time to decompose. A very good \nplan for feeding is, to have set a glass \njar, mouth upwards, in the Aquarium \ninto which to place the food. The fish \nwill not be iong in finding the way into it, and they will \nnever forget it. This prevents the food from being \nscattered about. \n\nBe satisfied with a moderate number offish. Much of the \nwant of success with Aquariums, is due to over-stocking. \nIt destroys the necessary natural conditions, producing \nfoulness and impurity, disease and death. \n\nIt is not necessary to change the water unless the fish \nshow signs of suffering by remaining at the surface, with the \nnose out of the water. This indicates a lack of oxygen in \nthe water, and may be caused by decomposition of food \ncarelessly left in the water, by unusual heat, or\' by over- \nstocking with fish. If our directions are followed strictly, \nthe water will remain sweet and pure for years, without \nchange, except that which is produced by evaporation. All \n\n\n\n\nFig. 2. \n\n\n\n90 \n\n\n\nMANAGEMENT OF THE AQUARIUM. \n\n\n\nsediment should be removed about twice a week by means \n\nof a small siphon or lifting-tube. \nAn Aquarium with metal frame and glass sides, will cost \n\n(size of front glass), 6Xio inches, I1.50; 9X13 inches, $2.00; \n\n10X16 inches, I3.00. Aquariums with iron frames and \n\nplate glass, all sizes, with and without running water \n\nattachment, |io to $250. Send size wanted and we will \n\nquote price. \nFish Globes with brass chain affixed for hanging (see Fig. \n\ni), are worth: Yz pint size, 25c.; i pint, 30c.; i quart, 40c.; % \n\ngallon, 50c.; I gallon, 65c,; 2 gallons, ^i.oo. \n\nFish Globes, with feet, (see Fig. 2), quart size, 75c., ^ \n\ngallon, |i.oo; i gallon, |i. 25 ; i^^ gallon, I1.50; 2 gallons, \n\nI2.00 ; 3 gallons, $3.50 ; 4 gallons, I4.50. . \n\nGlass Tanks (see Fig. 3), are worth : Quart size, 75c.; Yz \n\ngallon, li.oo; i gallon, |i. 25 ; 2 gallons, $1.75 ; 5 gallons, \n\n$3.00 ; 10 gallons, I7.50 ; 12 gallons, $10.00. \n\nStands for square or round Aquariums, of wood, iron, \n\nwire, and brass, |i.oo to I25. \nFish of all kinds can be shipped almost any distance, by \n\nexpress, with safety. Goldfish are worth, all sizes, 25c. \n\neach ; Silver Fish, 15c.; Japanese Goldfish, with long flow- \ning tails, $2.00. Small native fish \nof all kinds, loc. each ; Newts, In- \nsects, small Frogs, Pollywogs, \nCrawfish, loc, small Turtles, 25c. \neach. Water Plants of any of the \nkinds described, loc; per bunch, \n|i.oo per dozen. These latter will \nbe sent by mail on receipt of price. \nWater Snails, very useful for de- \nvouring the green confervas that ac- \ncumulates on the glass of the \n\nAquarium, loc. per dozen. Terra Cotta ornaments for the \n\ncentre of the Aquarium, from loc. to |i.oo each. \nFish Food, sufficient to feed six goldfish for six months, \n\nIOC. per box, by mail. Aquarium Cement, 25c. per box. \n\nSilver Gravel, for bottom of Aquariums, loc. per cjuart. \n\nSmall pebbles, same price. Dip net for catching fish in the \n\nAquarium, 25c. each by mail. \n\nWe will undertake to make and stock Aquariums of all \n\nsizes, and keep the water fresh without change, at reasona- \nble prices. Also to build and stock Marine Aquariums. \n\n\n\n\nFig. 3. \n\n\n\nDEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. \n\nDEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. \n\n\n\n911 \n\n\n\n\n\nYORKSHIRE, \n\n\n\nPUG. \n\n\n\nWe make a specialty of importing and selling fine-bred \ndogs of all breeds. We have in our employ probably the \nbest general judges of dogs in the United States, besides \n\nseveral agents in \n\nEurope, who ship \n\ndogs to us on \n\nalmost every \n\nsteamer. We "sell \n\na dog the same as \n\nwe sell everything \n\nelse, with a guar- \nantee that the \n\nanimal is just as \n\nit is represented. \n\nHeretofore, this \nbusiness has been in the hands of sharpers, who swindled \nthe inexperienced by palming off worthless curs as fine-bred \nstock. We have raised the business to the lev^l of a legiti- \nmate trade, and sell dogs for what they are worth, and not \nfor what they will bring. \n\nWe have on hand, or will procure at short notice, dogs of \nthe following breeds: \xe2\x80\x94 \n\nThe King Charles Spaniel. \xe2\x80\x94 This ranks among the \nhighest-priced and scarcest of dogs. A good specimen, \n"male or female, is worth from I50.00 to ^300. Puppies are \nslightly less in price. We generally keep both dogs arid \npuppies on hand. \n\n\xe2\x96\xa0 The Blenheim Spaniel. \xe2\x80\x94 This is almost as rare as the \nKing Charles, and brings about the same price. Both the \nBlenheim and King Charles will be imported to order at six \nweeks\' notice. \n\nThe Pug. \xe2\x80\x94 There are three varieties of this breed : the \nEnglish, 2t. Pug of medium size; the Willoi(ghby,3. small \nsize Pug ; and the Russian, a Pug with much black on the \nface and head. These dogs have cheapened much in price \nduring the last year. Good specimens can now be had from \n$25.00 to 5100. Females and puppies at less. \n\nThe Fox Terrier has lately sprung into popularity in \nthis country, although it has taken high rank among the \n\n\n\n92 DEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. \n\nfashionable ladies\' dogs of Europe for some years. Price, \n^25.00 to I250. \n\nThe Bull Terrier is a dog that well deserves the pop- \nularity that has at last fallen to his lot. He is good-tem- \npered, intelligent, active, and plucky. Specimens exist that \nweigh under five pounds, but these bring fabulous prices. \nDogs that weigh from six to twenty pounds are worth from \n^15 to I150. Dogs from 20 to 30 lbs., I5.00 to ^25. \n\nThe Yorkshire Terrier is the fashionable dog of the \nperiod for ladies. Specimens are frequently met with that \nweigh under four pounds. Price, |2o to ^150. Puppies, \n|i5 to $75. \n\nThe Skye Terrier comes in silver, blue, and gold ; the \nblue being the more valuable. A good specimen can be \nbought for $25, but prices are from that up to ^75, for extra \nsmall and fine ones ; puppies, I500 to $50. \n\nThe Scotch Terrier, in color, should always be yellow, \nand the hair not so long as the Skye. He makes a good \npet, and a most wonderful rat-killer. A good specimen \nshould be short and stumpy. Price, ^5.00 to $25 ; puppies, \nI5.00 to $15.00. \n\nThe Black and Tan Terrier, once so popular, is com- \ning into favor again. They are the smallest of dogs, three \npound specimens not being so very rare. There is also an \nall-tan color variety. Price, $5.00 to $75 ; puppies, I5.00 \nto $15 ; the tan color dogs are rather higher. \n\nThe P^rench Poodle is the small variety sometimes called \na lap-dog. They are generally white in color, but are occa- \nsionally black, brown, or spotted. Prices, I5.00 to $25 ; \npuppies, I3.00 to $10. \n\nThe German Poodle is the large breed, and is of all \ncolors, and spotted. Prices, I5.00 to 125 ; puppies, I3.00 to \n|io. Trick dogs of this kind can be had for $25 to |ioo. \n\nThe Cocker Spaniel is a good house dog, and excel- \nlent for hunting Snipe, Woodcock, Pheasants, and Ducks. \nUnbroken, the prices range from $5.00 to $25 ; broken, from \n$10 to |ioo ; puppies, I5.00 to $50. Imported dogs, from I25 \nto |ioo. ^ \n\nThe Sussex and Clumber Spaniels are not often met \nwith in this country, but can be imported at a cost from $25 \nto $200, according to quality. \n\nThe Pointer is not as popular now as the setter for hunt- \ning, and good specimens can be had, broken, for $25 to $75 ; \n\n\n\nDEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. 93 \n\nunbroken, ^lo to I25. Puppies, ^5.00 to I25. The higher \nprices are for pedigreed stock. \n\nThe Setter is a specialty with us, and we can furnish all \nkinds, with or without pedigree, broken or unbroken. \nPuppies, I5.00 to I50. Red Irish are worth from ^25 to \nI250 for broken, and from I15 to $75 for unbroken dogs ; \npuppies, $5.00 to $50. Blue Belton are now very popular, \nand range in prices from $20 to $300 when broken, and un- \nbroken from lio to $50 ; puppies, |io to $50. Laverack \nare orange and white, lemon and white, or black and white, \nin color. Prices for broken dogs range from $25 to |2oo ; \nunbroken, $10 to |ioo; puppies, $5.00 to I50. Gilder- \nsteeve, the same colors as Laverack, are worth about the \nsame prices. Gordon are jet black in color, with tan \npoi-nts. Prices, when broken, $50 to $250 ; unbroken, 115 to \n$100; puppies, lio to I75. There are many other strains of \nsetters, such as Bismark, Llewellyn, etc., which are worth \nabout the same range of prices as the preceding. \n\nThe Irish Water Spaniel is deep red in color, with \nligft curly hair, and is about the size of a large poodle, \nwhich he somewhat resembles. They are used principally \nfor duck shooting. Prices, $1$ to I50; puppies, ^5.00 to $25. \n\nThe Chesapeake Dog originated on the shores of the \nChesapeake Bay, where it is used for duck shooting. It is \nabout the size of a small N.ewfoundland, and has a coat of \ndeep red. It is the best surf dog in the world. A good \nspecimen is now very scarce, and is worth from ^50 to |;ioo. \n\nThe Newfoundland is the handsomest and best-natured \ndog of all. There are two varieties: one has tight, curly, \ndull black hair, the other a long, silky, lustrous coat ; both \nare equally valuable, a jet black specimen, broken to \ncarry, is worth from 125 to $150; unbroken, from |i5 to \n|ioo. One with a white star or white on feet or tail, from \n$10 to 1:50. The price depends mostly on the size, the larger \nthe dog the more he will cost. Jet black puppies, 115 to \nI50 ; with white on them, |io to $25. Female puppies are \nmuch less in price. \n\nThe English Mastiff, either short or long-haired, is \ncoming into high favor as a guardian for country places. A \ngood specimen is worth frorh 150 to I150 ; puppies, $25 to \n^75. We can import them at short notice. \n\nThe Greyhound is a great runner, and can be readily \ntrained to accompany his master or mistress on horseback \n\n\n\n94 DEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. \n\nor in a carriage. The dun-colored variety is worth from \n$15 to $25 ; the black variety, $25 to $50 ; the white variety, \nI25 to |ioo. \n\nThe Italian Hound resembles the Greyhound, but is \nmuch smaller. It also can be had in fawn color, from |io \nto $25 ; in white, $25 to |ioo ; in black, $50 to ^100. \n\nThe Bulldog is white and brindled ; he is a most \nferocious-looking animal, that strikes terror to the hearts of \ntramps. As a rule, he is kind and gentle with his friends. \nGood specimens are worth from ^10 to $100 ; puppies, I5.00 \nto I50. \n\nThe St. Bernard, of the genuine breed, is scarce even \nin Europe. In this country, almost every Newfoundland \nthat is grizzled, or red and white is sold as a St. Bernard. \nA good male specimen of the genuine breed is worth from \n|ioo to $500, and must be imported to order. The dogs \nthat are called St. Bernards by dealers, are worth from $10 \nto I50 for dogs, and $5.00 to $25 for puppies. \n\nThe Leonberg Dog is a gigantic, long-haired variety, \nlarger even than a bloodhound. They resemble the New- \nfoundland in shape and hair. Prices, |ioo to $250; puppies, \nI50 to 1 100. \n\nThe Retriever is jet black in color, and has either tight \ncurly or wavy hair. It is about the size of a setter, and is a \nmost excellent water dog. Prices, ^15 to $50; puppies, \nl5.ooto|25. \n\nThe Bloodhound is a most ferocious looking beast, with \nlong ears, and the best specimens are of a deep tan color. \nPrices, I50 to $250 ; puppies, $25 to |;ioo. The Bloodhound \nof the Southern States is really the German Mastiff. Prices, \n$25 to $75 ; puppies, $10 to I25. \n\nThe Black Spaniel ranks very high as a beautiful and \nintelligent dog. He is jet black, with wavy hair, and rather \nlarger than the Cocker Spaniel. Prices, $15 to |ioo ; pup- \npies, $10 to I50, \n\nRabbit Hounds are of several varieties, the commonest \nof which is the Beagle, a small dog, with short legs. \nPrices, |io to $50; puppies, $5.00 to I25. The Harrier is \nlarger and swifter than the former. Prices are the same. \nThe Dachsaund is a German Beagle Hound, with a long \nbody and short, bowed legs. Prices, $25 to ^100 ; puppies, \n$15 to $so. The Basset Hound is of French origin, and \nsomewhat resembles the German Hound. Prices, $50 to \n\n\n\nDEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. 95 \n\n$250 ; puppies, $2$ to |icxd. We can generally furnish these \ndogs, both trained and untrained. \n\nFox Hounds, trained dogs are worth $10 to $50 ; pup- \npies, $5.00 to I25. Imported English Fox Hounds, of line \nstrains, $25 to |ioo ; puppies, $15 to I50. \n\nThe Dalmatian Coach Dog is white, with brown or \nblack spots. A dog of this breed, trained to run under a \nwagon or between a team of horses, is worth from ^10 to $2$ ; \npuppies, $5.00 to |io. \n\nThe Dandie Dinmont owes its celebrity to Sir Walter \nScott, who introduced it to the public notice through \nhis novel of "Guy Mannering." This breed somewhat re- \nsembles the Skye Terrier. Prices, $25 to ^loo ; puppies, \n|i5to$5o. \' \n\nThe Irish Terrier is a most excellent rat-killer, that \nwill stand almost any amount of hard work. In size and \nbuild they resemble the Scotch breed, but are red in color, \nand have short, wiry hair. Prices, $1$ to ^50: puppies, ^10 \nto I25. \n\nThe Spitz or Pomerian Dog is fast going out of fash- \nion, except among the Germans. A white one is worth \n$5.00 to $15; puppies, I3.00 to $8.00. The black variety, \nJio to $25 ; puppies, $5.00 to $10. \n\nThe Maltese Dog is very small and white, with long \nwavy hair. Prices, $25 to I50 ; puppies, |io to 125. _ \n\nThe Wolf Hound resembles the Greyhound in build, \nbut has long shaggy hair. Prices, $50 to $250 ; puppies, \n$35 to $100. \n\nThe Mexican Dog, sometimes called the Chinese \nTerrier, is a hairless breed that differs in size from that of \na small black-and-tan to that of a bull-dog. Prices, $10 to \n\nI50. \n\nOur Mange Cure \n\nis a positive remedy for this loathsome disease, and will \ncure quickly and radically. It consists of both external and \ninternal treatment. Price, $1.00. \n\nOur Distemper Cure \nis admitted by all who have used it, to be the best medicine \never prescribed for this disease, by which nearly all dogs \nare afflicted sometime during their lives. Distemper should \nbe allowed to run its course the same as measles in a child, \nand when checked by any drug, will be sure to result in \n\n\n\n96 DEPARTMENT FOR DOGS. \n\nsome chronic affliction, such as twitchings, deafness, sore \neyes, etc., that will injure the dog for life. Our Distemper \nCure causes, the disease to be of a mild form, and prevents \nother complications from arising, leaving the dog, when the \ndisease has run its course, in as perfect condition as be- \nfore. Full directions regarding necessary diet and care are \nwrapped around the bottle. Price, One Dollar. \n\nOur Worm Powder \n\nis harmless and certain. Nearly all the diseases of dogs \nbefore they are a year old, are caused by worms ; the list \nincludes fits, weakness, emaciation, etc. The powder is \nworth 25 cents per box. \n\nOur Flea- Soap \n\nwill destroy these pests at one washing of the vermin-bitten \nanimal. It is free from mineral poisons, and is perfectly \nharmless to dogs. Price, 25c. per cake. \n\n\n\nThese remedies can be had of all druggists, or will be sent \nto any address on receipt of price. We will prescribe the \nnecessary medicine and treatment for all diseases of dogs, \nif a detailed description of the symptoms are sent us in a \nletter, and accompanied by our usual fee of One Dollar. \n\nTo Correspondents. \n\nWe are always willing to answer letters relating to cage \nbirds, dogs, and pets of all kinds ; providing a stamp is en- \nclosed. One stamp is a small thing, but a year\'s aggregate \namounts to a large sum of money. In writing to us, be as \nbrief as possible, and always sign your full name, with \npost-office address, and county and state. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n237 South Eighth Street, \n\nPHILADELPHIA. \n\n\n\nlE^OI^TOrS : \n\n\n\nStrength ! \n\n\n\nSmoothness! \n\n\n\nFull Length! \n\nElxquisite Colorsl \n\nWHITE COTTON ON BLACK SPOOLS. \n\n\n\n\nM I LE-EN D \n\n\n\n\nStrawbridge & Clothier, \n\nJohn Wanamaker, \n\nCooper & Conard, \n\nSharpless & Sons, \n\nand all large retailers. \n\n\n\nBIRD MANNA/ \n\nA positive necessity to every cag:e tiird. \n\n\n\nThe recipe from which \nBird Manna is made, was \n[)rocured from the Canary \nBird breeders of the Hartz \nMountains of Germany, who \nsupply almost the entire \nworld with \nthese song- \nsters ; and is \nused by \nthem as a \nremedy for \nnearly all \nthe diseases \nof cage \nbirds. \n\nAlthough \nit has been \non the mar- \nket but a \nshort time, \nwe have al- \nready re- \nceived hun- \ndreds of un- \nsolicited tes- \n\n\n\n\nIf given tO:Gage birds dur- \ning the moulting season it \nwill usually carry them \nthrough this critical period \nwithout los^ of iSong. \nWhen it is placed in the \ncage of a \npair of birds \nthat are \nbreeding, a \nmarked im- \nprovement \nin t h e \ngrowth of \nthe nestlings \nv\\\' i 1 1 be at \nonce no- \nticed, and \nthe usual \npercentage \nof deaths \nwill be con- \nsi d era biy \nlessened. \nThe Bird \nManna is \nmetal cups \n\n\n\ntimonials of its curing almost \nall the different diseases of \nboth seed -eating and soft- \nbilled birds, and of restoring \nthe song of birds that have \nbeen silent for long periods. \n\nThe Manna can be had of a \nmail on receipt of 15c. \n\nJOHISSTON, HOI^t^OYTAY & CO., \n\nWholesale Agents. \n602 Arch Street, Philadelphia. \n\n\n\nput up in little \n\n(protected by IHUrs patent)^ \n\nthat fasten to the wires of theoo \n\ncage. When given accord-^ \n\ning to the directions, a MannaO \n\nwill last several weeks. o \n\n1 druggists, or will be sent by^ \n\nll \no \n\n\n\n>- \nd \n\n03 \n\n\n\n'