Finches. 221 



and millet-seed, but like the other birds, would probably 

 enjoy a change of diet hemp-seed and a few insects 

 occasionally. It has a short, not unmelodious song. 

 It was known in France in the time of Vieillot under 

 its native name of Foudi. It is found in Madagascar, 

 the island of Reunion, etc., and has become, I believe, 

 naturalized at St. Helena, some birds which escaped 

 from confinement having taken refuge there. 



There are many other species both of Bishop Birds 

 and of other Weavers. I will only mention two, 

 which appear likely to become favourites in the bird- 

 rooms. 



THE YELLOW or HALF-MASKED WEAVER BIRD 

 (Ploceus vitellina) is said to be a most charming' bird, 

 easily kept in confinement, and much more gentle than 

 most species of its family, so that it may be safely kept 

 with smaller and more delicate birds. It is found on 

 the Blue and White Nile, living in acacia, and thorn- 

 trees near the water, and builds egg-shaped nests 

 hanging from a slender branch. It is about the size 

 of a Sparrow : the wings and tail are greenish brown, 

 each feather edged with yellow ; the tail is olive-green. 

 It has a patch of deep black round the forehead, eyes, 

 and cheeks ; the top of the head and throat are of a 

 reddish-orange, shading into the deep yellow colouring 

 (like the yelk of an egg, whence it takes its name) 

 of the lower part of the body ; the eyes are red, and 

 the beak is black. The hen has similar colouring, but 



