88 PET BIRDS OF BENGAL 



blotches take the f^ini of hierogly{>hie 

 streaks ^ sparingly cast over the wlio1e 

 surface. 



Though in its wild state, the bir.1 

 observes strict pur da Ji in its relation to nmn, 

 it completely shakes off its shyness when 

 once captured and l>rought under his in- 

 fluence. .From its conduct in t]i<^ 

 Cage-life cage, it is impossible to imagine 

 that this bird, while at large, 

 declines all advances made by man to court 

 its friendship. In captivity, it tries to 

 establish the closest possible intimacy witli 

 its owner. It is immensely pleased if taken 

 up by hand, and expresses its appreciation 

 by beginning at once a thorough search oi 

 your person. Perhaps it expects to find 

 grubs in all the unlikely corners of your 

 attire. In the aviary it is as sprightly 

 as ever. There also it does not forget its 

 old habit of prying into the leaves of 

 shrubs for insects. If 3^ou enter the aviary 

 with food, this brave and impatient little 

 bird will fly u]) to ;\ /n and snatch away one 



