YOUNG BIRDS. 47 



unconcern or evince curiosity and even furious 

 anger at its presence. 



It is always a great mistake to handle chicks 

 unless absolutely obliged to do so. If they have 

 already left the nest of their own accord, it is well 

 to take them just as they are found, even though 

 it may be difficult and occupy much time, for once 

 they are frightened it is long before they settle 

 down and become themselves again; and even 

 when at length they are apparently at ease, they 

 readily take alarm again, and look scared and 

 gawky. If their situation is quite hopeless it is 

 best to try to make them alter their position by 

 some means or other, and only as a very last 

 resource should they be handled and lifted, for 

 nothing so alarms these youngsters as touching 

 them ; it often makes them too terrified to perch 

 properly, and, as a consequence, they will cling in a 

 reclining position feebly and awkwardly gripping 

 the branches. 



A chick, like all other young life, is naturally 

 curious in a high degree, and the alarm at the 

 intrusion of a human being rapidly turns to 

 interest and curiosity if one keeps still and gives 

 no further cause for flight. 



If we catch him in this perky attitude he is 

 looking his best, spry and alert, and one picture 

 of him then will be more prized than a dozen of 

 him cowering in fright. 



