124 



FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



different to the smart, active, and inquisitive bird it appears 

 when in confinement. 



The female Magpie, as is the case with most of the 

 Corvidse family, is generally a trifle larger than the male, 

 though possibly this rule is subject to variation ; its 

 plumage is not so brilliant, though the difference between 

 the sexes is difficult for amateurs to determine. 



Having, in common with the Raven and others of this 

 family, a broad tongue, the Magpie will learn to imitate 

 the human voice, and is consequently often reared from 

 the nest and made a household pet; but if secured within 

 a cage its restlessness invariably occasions a broken tail, 

 whilst the partial freedom of a clipped wing is a source of 

 insecurity to all. Anything glittering is an especial trophy 

 to a Magpie's eye, and is forthwith taken away and 

 hidden, whilst the dog in the kennel has to keep as sharp 

 a look-out upon his dish of bones as the cook in the 

 kitchen upon her more sumptuous daintiesjX 



