the case of large birds, the ears and nostrils) with 
cotton wool, to prevent blood and other matter 
issuing and staining the plumage. Shot wounds, 
which have a tendency to bleed freely, should also 
be plugged. Small birds, such as Warblers, are best 
wrapped in tissue paper secured by a pin, and con- 
signed to the pocket. With large birds it is a good 
plan to tie a handkerchief, or similar article round 
the back and wings (the knot being made on the 
breast), and to carry them by the legs. In all cases 
a note should be made of the colour of the iris, and 
also of the colour of the bill, tarsi, and any other 
parts that will require painting when the bird is 
dry. This point is best attended to immediately the 
bird is shot, as the delicate tints of some species fade 
very rapidly after death. 
16 
