OF THE DOMESTIC PIGEON. 235 



Practical Agriculture, &c., by R. W. Dickson, M. D., 

 1805. 



" It is also of importance in the economy of these 

 birds, that the floor of the dovecote be nearly upon a 

 level with the holes where they enter, and that these 

 holes be not too large or too numerous : the holes where 

 they form their nests should not be much enclosed, as 

 pigeons delight in being at liberty. Salt and strong 

 scents, such as that of assafoetida, are said to be agree- 

 able to these birds, so as frequently to attach them to 

 their habitations. 



" The pigeon seldom lays more than two eggs, which 

 are sat upon about twenty days, by the male and female 

 alternately. They are capable of breeding frequently, 

 but in general produce only two or three broods or 

 flights in the year. There are several sorts, but the 

 common blue pigeon is probably the most productive. 

 The tumblers are small, but very domestic. 



After recommending the harvest flight of pigeons 

 as the most proper for the purpose of stock, as being 

 the strongest to withstand the winter season, the author 

 of the * Experienced Farmer' gives the following direc- 

 tions on the management of these birds : In regard to 

 feeding them, it is advised as only necessary during 

 the season, between seed-time and harvest, when * it 



