IS2O 



THE PERCHING BIRDS 



protected and fed by them with all assiduity." These birds will not unfrequently 

 associate with the common starling; and they retain their vivacious characteristic 

 even in captivity, where they form some of the most charming of aviary birds, dart- 

 ing to and fro on rapid flights or singing from some favorite perch. The male in 

 summer plumage has the head, crest, wings, and tail black, with a blue or violet 



RED-BILLED OXPECKER. 



(One-half natural size.) 



gloss; the back and breast being of a beautiful rose color, which is suffused with 

 brown in the winter plumages. The young are of a uniform light grayish brown 

 above, with the wings and tail dark brown edged with buff; the throat and lower 

 parts being dull buffish white. 



