363 



enough tinder the conditions yoit name, and is a charm- 

 ing cage-bird. 



It is certainly not absohitely necessary that it shoiild 

 have fruit daily, and no doubt if supplied with food con- 

 taining a large proportion of mashed potato or grated 

 carrot, the fruit might be dispensed with for a time. 

 But a plentiful supply of fruit would be conducive to 

 its health. It will require a good insectivorous mixture 

 in addition to the fruit, and a few mealworms. 



BREEDING THE CAPE CANARY AND THE 

 BENGAIvESE. 

 Question : Can you tell me how to breed Cape 

 Canaries and Bengalese ? E. B. 



Anszuer : There are several species to which the 

 name of "Cape Canary" is occasionally applied, but 

 most probably tlie Grey-necked Serin {Serinns canicollis) 

 is intended. It would build an open nest in a Canary 

 nest-box or in a bush, and would no doubt rear its young 

 on any mixture containing ^^%, such as one w^ould 

 supply to Canaries when breeding. It would be desirable 

 to supph^ plenty of green food, and also crushed hemp- 

 seed if eaten. I should also give spray or Indian millet. 

 If a healthy pair are placed in a good-sized aviary where 

 they are free from interruption, there would be a very 

 good chance of their breeding successfully. 



The Bengalese is most easily bred in a roomy cage 

 or in a small bird-room aviary without other occupants. 

 A box nest is required, which can be made from a cigar 

 box or a travelling cage. Fine hay will suffice for 

 making the nest. The sexes can be distinguished by 

 the fact that only the cock sings. Not more than one 

 pair should be kept together when breeding. The 

 young can be reared on any food suitable for young 

 Canaries. 



