Allen Silver — Bird-life in 1918



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times. The cock birds seemed to do better, but I lost one of

them also.


Once I had a nest of three fine youngsters, but the hen bird died

when the oldest young one was ready to leave the nest, and it alone

survived. A few days before the hen died she made the sneezing

noise violently.


Of the pair of birds at present in my possession the hen has been

in the place over a year and the cock a few months. Both birds sneeze

slightly at long intervals, not, however, as much as the former ones did.

I think this is in some measure due to a ventilation slit that I made in

the back of the roosting-shed and near the roof.


Until next spring I am having my present pair of birds indoors.

By that time I intend to have a better place got ready for them in

the garden, and of course larger than the first, although I am not

over-burdened with space. One of the chief disadvantages I have to

contend with is the absence of a high wall to build against.


Probably some of your readers may care to give a suggestion

regarding the proportions of a small garden aviary for Budgerigars.


BIRD-LIFE IN 1918

By Allen Silver

(Continued from p. 210.)


House Martin .—See large parties and strong broods everywhere.

This is one of the sweetest birds we have. Its song always entertains

me, as does that of the Swallow.


Sand Martin .—Colonies seem as strong as usual. Can always

take pleasure in its butterfly movements. Have known it use drain¬

pipes in mansion wall and under railway bridges as nesting sites.


Pipits and Wagtails


Tree Pipit .—Met with it in large numbers and strong brooded.


Meadow Pipit .—Excessively common wherever I have been, right

into the suburban area until nesting commenced.


Rock Pipit .—Saw specimens late in the season in coastal spots.


Pied Wagtail .—Numerous and strong brooded everywhere In

some cases apparently three broods were reared.



