The Aviaries at l^onndhay Parle. 83 



pressure, but the nesting season is all but upon us and if it 

 induces ;uiy lo lake up Hie methodical observation of the birds 

 tlicy kci'|., ,111(1 others to record the methods they use, I shall 

 be amply repaid for the labour incurred. 



The Aviaries at Roundliay Park (Leeds). 



By FiiANK SoMKUS, M.R.O.V.S. 



Some two or three years ago, having- a good collec- 

 tion ol various .small Foi'eign and British Birds in an open aviary, 

 1 was U'ni|)te(l to oH'cr (hem to the Parks' Committee of the 

 Leeds City Council, and they were gladly accepted and a proper 

 aviary built for their reception. 



Since I have had the opportunity of guiding the arrange- 

 ments for their future, I have guarded their interests from 

 time to time, studied their lial)its and customs and have pai'- 

 ticularly advised as to the suiiability of their feeding. The birds 

 were kept together in one large aviary for more than a year, 

 and they were a charming addition to the Park, delighting the 

 young people, and greatly interesting the older ones. The 

 popularity of the aviary exceeded all expectations, and a 

 larger aviary in a more convenient place has since been con- 

 structed with a southern aspect. 



The dimensions of the new improved aviary are as 

 follows : 



Length 70 feet, width 11 feet, and height varying 

 from 8 feet in front to 12 feet. The entire length of the back 

 is a brick wall, the front is wire netting, covered by movable 

 glass shutters, which protect the birds during the bad and 

 inclement weather of the winter season, and can be removed 

 during spring and summer. The centre compartment (A) is a 

 wooden erection, with glass observation window — for sleeping 

 accommodation — a coke fire on the outside wall keeps the 

 temperature even and warm. 



The following is a list of the bii-ds that are at present 

 in the aviary with contemplated additions. 



Green and Yellow Budgerigars, Cockatiels, Red-crested 

 Curdinak' {Paroaria cuculla!a) Lovebirds, Giant Weaver -birds. 

 Ground Doves, Java Sparrows (grey and wliite varieties) 



