14 OUR HOME PETS 



so affectionate as some others, but when he 

 does become attached to people he is well 

 able to show his preference. If allowed his 

 freedom in a room, he will be so busy and 

 happy, with occupations he can invent for him- 

 self, that he will not be troublesome with ex- 

 cessive singing. 



In considering the less-known cage birds, 

 let us begin with the one most frequently 

 seen, the American robin. This bird is easily 

 tamed, being intelligent and naturally fearless. 

 He soon learns that no harm is intended to 

 him, and that behind his wires he need not 

 dread the human being who, out-of-doors, he 

 never thought of fearing. He takes kindly to 

 life in our houses, and especially to the food 

 that he finds on our tables. He is also affec- 

 tionate, readily becoming fond of individuals. 

 When free in a house he is particularly enter- 

 taining, ready in invention, and doing things 

 no one would expect of him. He is observ- 

 ing, having his own opinion of everything he 

 sees, and well able to make his wishes under- 

 stood. As a singer he is not noted in captiv- 

 ity, although if kept away from other birds, 

 and not allowed too much liberty, he will sing. 



