Poreign Birds 165 



birds these traits are more pronounced than in others, and 

 where we fail to notice any it is simply because the little manner- 

 isms are too minute for our eyes to note ; but they are undoubt- 

 edly prominent to their feathered companions. 



The most prominent distinctions by which we know our 

 birds, are those of plumage and tameness, and it generally re- 

 quires but little observation to identify them by these means, 

 unless several of the same species are in the aviary together. 

 Then it is that our close observations stand us in good stead 

 and enable us to identify them with certainty. Among the more 

 common and more easily noticed actions is a liking for a par- 

 ticular perch by one bird, another has a pronounced peaceful 

 or pugnacious disposition, another is full of energy, while 

 others may be just the reverse: yet another may delight in. or 

 have a marked antipathy to, bathing, and I have known some 

 birds have a preference for one particular seed pan. No doubt 

 a few minutes' reflection will readily recall to our minds some of 

 the pretty little ways by which we learnt to love and remember 

 our tiny friends. Personally I can remember many of my pets 

 now, alas ! no more, by the intelligent little mannerisms they 

 had. Particularly do I recall a certain cock Zebra Finch. 

 Within a short time of coming into my possession this engaging 

 mite would always fly to meet me whenever I went near his 

 house, and, getting on the perch nearest to me, he would chatter 

 away like an M.P. Then hop, skip, and away for a seed or a 

 drink, and back again more voluble than before. Many a long 

 discussion did we have, and I had hard work at times to get a 

 word in edgjeways, for he would not be talked down. And if T 

 learnt nothing but a deeper and more affectionate liking for the 

 whole feathered race, and himself ui particular, I consider my 

 time as by no means illspent, for was I not conversing with 

 nature through that small bundle of feathers ? I used to look 

 forward to these little chats, and so I think did he. for he never 

 disappointed me. and now — poor little " Imp " has gone. 



One might compile a book respecting this individuality in 

 birds, but a few more instances among my own friends may 

 suffice. Weavers are great favourites of mine, and, I think, 

 possess intelligence in a marked degree : who can see their nests 



