PIGEONS. 



671 



The feathers on the breast open and turn both ways, expanding something like the petals 

 of a rose; this is called by some purle, and by others the frill, and the more the bird has of 

 it, the better. These birds are apt to be a little wild, like the Carrier, and off their nests if 

 disturbed while sitting; for this reason it is well to have the breeding places made so that 

 they can have a secluded place for sitting. 



THE NCN is so called from its peculiar markings, the body always being pure white, with 

 the head, tail, and flights of some solid color, such as black, red, yellow, or blue, they being 

 generally preferred in the order given. THE ABCHANGEL seems to differ in plumage from 

 any other variety of pigeons; the head, neck, breast, and body, with the exception of the 

 wings, are a rich copper color, while the tail and wings are a rich bronze black, the metallic 



THE OWL PIGEON. 



lustre reflecting in the sunlight the most gorgeous and beautiful tints. THE ANTWERPS are 

 noted for their homing characteristics, and for long and rapid flights. 



Management Of Pigeons. Pigeons make beautiful pets, and may be kept with but 

 comparatively little trouble. They differ very essentially from other domestic birds in 

 respect to breeding, since as many different varieties as are desired may be kept together in 

 one loft without danger of crossing, provided they have all been properly mated before being 

 put in together. The foundation of success with pigeons, as with other feathered pets, is in 

 strict attention to cleanliness. If the droppings are allowed to accumulate in the loft, the 

 odor arising from them will be very injurious to the birds, causing them to become diseased; 

 the filth also gets between the toes and on the feet of the birds, producing cracks and sores, 



