Ornithological and Other Oddities 



colour from the plumage, turning the yellow-green 

 of the back to a dull grey, and bleaching the 

 breast to white. In this state the bird somewhat 

 resembles the Indian grey tit (Parus minor), and 

 thus the change is interesting, as showing on how 

 little specific difference sometimes depends — in 

 this case little more than the presence or absence 

 of a fugitive yellow pigment. 



Unfortunately for the character of the oxeye, 

 it has to be admitted that the often-brought plea 

 of " changed circumstances of captivity " will not 

 acquit him ; for he is known to murder other small 

 birds, and even bats, when at liberty, and to fight 

 with his own kind until blood is drawn freely. 



I do not, of course, recommend any one to 

 cage a familiar bird like this, except temporarily, 

 for the purpose of some particular observation ; 

 for, although the bird bears captivity well, when 

 once he has convinced himself that he cannot 

 get out, it is far more pleasant for all parties to 

 cultivate the oxeye's acquaintance in the open. 

 This can readily be done in winter, when a half- 

 picked bone or a head of sunflower hung out 

 will speedily attract any individuals that may be 

 in the vicinity. And in a favourable locality 

 the birds will show themselves quite willing to 

 continue the acquaintance thus begun, even in 

 summer. This has been well demonstrated by 



Mr. Granvile Sharp in his charming little book, 



196 



