28 



FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



the shelter of some flags or rushes, with their heads beneath 

 the feathers of the shoulder. When in search of food, 

 however, they are very nimble, and run lightly upon the 

 boggy ground among the reeds and rushes. As is natural 

 with an aquatic bird, the Teal has web feet, of a brownish- 

 grey colour. 



These birds are easily kept in confinement, and if in a 

 suitable position they will breed freely, and will be a source 

 of considerable interest, especially to the fortunate possessors 

 of ornamental waters, where their habits of remaining 

 attached to their birthplace will be an especial advantage. 

 Many of our readers may call to mind instances of their 

 presence upon the ornamental waters of our public and 

 other parks, whilst the Teals at the Zoological Gardens, 

 Regent's Park, have been especially successfulTW 



\iik 



M 



