228 Bird- keep ing. 



such an extent that they pull out their feathers to re- 

 lieve the exceeding irritability of skin from which they 

 suffer. Hemp-seed will sometimes cause this, if given 

 in excess. I have heard syringing the bird with a 

 solution of bitter aloes recommended, for the habit 

 engendered by it. It is often caused by keeping Par- 

 rots too hot, and in too small a cage to allow them 

 any exercise. I am told, too, that it is frequently due 

 to poverty of blood, from want of nourishment and 

 variety in their food, and that a well-picked bone, 

 upon which to exercise their powerful beaks, is a pre- 

 ventative of feather-plucking. Most Parrots like to 

 have a piece of hard wood to bite, so I should think 

 this likely to be advantageous to them, and that a 

 good flight round the room every day would also be 

 beneficial : doubtless the habit arises from an unhealthy 

 condition of the body, and can only be effectually cured 

 by removing this. They should have abundance of 

 nourishing food, no dainties, and plenty of fresh air, 

 but must not be exposed to draughts, which will often 

 produce asthma. Bread soaked in milk, with a few 

 grains of Cayenne pepper, is good for this disease. 



Parrots are subject, too, to gouty or diseased feet : 

 the legs and feet swell, and the bird is unable to grasp 

 its perch : a warm bath is the best remedy for this, but 

 great care must be taken to dry the feet thoroughly ; 

 if sore, they must be soaked in sugar and water, or 

 anointed with sweet oil. The perches of the cage 



