THE NOBLE PARRAKEETS. 205 



to I7fin. ; wings, 7in. to 8Jin. ; longest feather of the tail, Sin. 

 to 12;iin. ; outer feathers of the tail, 2 Jin. to 3^in.). 



It is found throughout East India and in Ceylon, and is said 

 to be especially numerous on the Indian Peninsula. 



In Ceylon the young are frequently taken from the nest, 

 brought up by hand, and trained. This species is esteemed 

 there, as among us, as affording one of the most accomplished 

 speakers and, in all respects, cleverest parrots. Several 

 admirers and connoisseurs have lately described its habits in 

 captivity, especially Mr. E. Lieb, of Palmyra, in South Russia, 

 and Dr. Steinhausen, of Strasburg, The former speaks of this 

 parrakeet as exceedingly clever and intelligent, but remarks that 

 its cry is unbearable, even the shrill voice of the Amazon Parrots 

 being trifling in comparison. Dr. Steinhausen adds, however, 

 that it is terrible to the ears of its keeper only when it feels 

 wearied, dull, and uncomfortable, or wishes for something which 

 is temptingly held out to it, or if it is annoyed at the appearance 

 of a stranger. *' At other times it is extremely affectionate, 

 takes its food from one's mouth, gives kisses, and chatters almost 

 the whole day — talking, although without great variety, but 

 with exceeding clearness and with a pleasing voice ; the feeling 

 tone which it gives, for example, to the word * Girawa ' — its name 

 — being specially noticeable. The similarity of its voice to that 

 of a human being, its capability of expressing tenderness, and of 

 varying the tone, is astonishing, and the infinite longing ex- 

 pressed in it is often most touching. We must also mention in 

 its praise that it always keeps its plumage clean and smooth. If 

 a walnut (a fruit of which it is very fond) be given to it, it 

 makes a peculiar use of the empty shell. It will not then drink 

 in any but the following fashion : It holds the shell with its 

 beak, and fills it carefully with water, and then returning to its 

 feeding place, sips this." Several attempts have been made to 

 breed this species, but, up to the present, without success. It 

 commends itself as a general favourite by reason of its beauty, 

 tameness, and gentleness ; and, if treated properly, it will become 

 so in a much greater degree than is now the case. 



I have to caution the amateur not to disregard the remarks on 

 training made on page 34, nor to buy without consideration such 

 an arch-screamer as is described above. Otherwise, he must not 

 reckon on being rewarded for the trouble he may take with the 

 bird. 



