32 



NATURE STUDY REVIEW [8:1— Jan., 1912 







Pigeon House and Flies, Department of Experimental 

 Breeding, University of Wisconsin. 



And when the pigeon becomes half wild again, as it is in many 

 of our cities, nesting in the corners and cornices of our build- 

 ings, and breeding unrestricted, there seems to be a tendency for 

 it to revert in color and form to its truly wild ancestor. Indeed 

 many of the pigeons of our streets and parks, which are blue or 

 blue-checked with black wing bars, a light rump and red eyes, 

 could scarcely be distinguished from the Rock Pigeon. 



Most people who keep pigeons, house them in a ''loft," as 

 a pigeon house is usually styled, whether it be on the roof or 

 on the ground, and either let them fly at large or in a screened 

 "fly." There is considerable danger, however, in allowing valu- 

 able birds to fly at large, since they are liable to be stolen or 

 shot or in some way lost. They will do well moreover in com- 

 paratively smalT quarters if properly cared for. They should be 

 kept in a light, well ventilated place, and if the birds are to re- 

 main in good health, it is important that they should be kept clean. 

 In their food, variety is of importance. The small round peas 

 known as Canadian field peas with Kaffir corn and wheat, form 

 a good basis to which may be added cracked corn, millet, rice, 

 and hemp seed. It will be necessary to vary the proportions of 

 these grains. Green food such as lettuce or cabbage will be ap- 

 preciated and may at times be fed to advantage. It is best to 

 feed twice daily at regular intervals, and to give at each feeding 



