CHAPTER’ Ill 
THE BREEDING SEASON 
stock on St. Valentine’s Day, and some there are 
who do it now, but those who are wise do not pair 
up their birds until the second or third week in March. 
This means that the first broods may be expected about 
the first or second week in April. This gives ample 
time for four nests to be taken before the end of the 
season in July. Many take only three nests. They 
think more of conserving the strength and energy of 
their breeding stock than they do of the obtaining of 
an extra nest of young. Wise men. They are to be 
commended. 
|: olden days it was the practice to mate up breeding 
KEEP STRANGERS AWAY 
When canaries are breeding many seem to be very 
nervous and excitable, and while they are not upset by 
the presence of one who usually takes care of them, they 
are quick to notice strangers, and will stop the work in 
which they are engaged during their presence. This 
is especially noticeable at the time when hens are feeding 
young birds. A good rule is to prevent if possible 
persons going into the breeding room while the birds 
are nesting. When birds are used to strangers no ill 
effects arise. Some fanciers have visitors in their rooms 
every week, and the birds are used to strangers, thus 
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