on two interesting hybrids.



13



than in the case of a pure example of C. flavirostris. The primaries

mainly resemble those of a Twite, the white webs being washed with

a sandy tone. The bird, although Redpoll-like in build, is nearly as

long as a Twite. There is no doubt as to its genuineness, either from

its appearance or from the details concerning its breeding, about

which I made full inquiries when visiting the owner.


A correspondent of mine, a Mr. John Angus, of Polmont,

Stirlingshire, bred this season three hybrids between a male Gold¬

finch and a hen Twite in a cage 19 in. x 14 in. x 10 in. They were

reared by foster-parents, and I believe two are males and one a

female. They have not yet acquired full plumage, so at present

I am not aware whether they will exhibit a black cap or “blaze."’

The blaze is fairly pronounced in mules between the Goldfinch

and the Linnet.*


The primary webs on the birds are yellowish, not brown or

white, or jonquil yellow. The cheeks are streaked and the mantle

described as speckled, as also are those of the flanks. The rectrices

at present are very much like those of the Twite, except that they

are yellowish in tone, no black and white Goldfinch-pattern being

noticeable. There is at present no chestnut on the upper breast,

no white cheek, no dark cap. The bill, however, is interesting,

being “ Twite ” yellow at the base and streaked on the upper

mandible like that of the Goldfinch, and is fairly long.


Birds of this kind and family are readily obtainable, and

aviculturists should, whilst exotic species are rare, turn their

attention to producing new British hybrids. Mules between Siskin

and Bullfinch and Canary and Chaffinch would fetch high prices

apart from their interest. Bunting hybrids are wanted, and also

any purely insectivorous, i. e. (not seed-sheller) hybrids.


I should be pleased at any time to give information relating

to what has been done in this direction, having for some good

number of years watched experiments closely (see vol. ii, No. 12,

3rd series). The Chaffinch at present has only been crossed

with the Brambling and the Greenfinch, and I think could be

further used.


* If a member, Mr. Angus would be eligible for the Society’s certificate, which

is offered for breeding birds in cages (see Rules). — G. R.



