90 CANARIES AND CAGE-BIRDS. 



placement of any of his gay feathers is as quickly noticed as a speck of dust on the 

 coat of the most fastidious dandy. 



The proper cage for a Goldfinch should be high, and either round or square, and 

 of the regular Canary-cage size ; because he likes to leap and climb upward, and 

 always utters his sweetest song from the highest perch of his cage. As an aviary- 

 bird the Goldfinch has no equal ; his handsome plumage, his sociable ways, and 

 constant motion, making him one of the most attractive birds which could be used 

 for this purpose. 



In the breeding-room he again ranks next to the Canary ; and when a good 

 specimen, which breeds the rare colors so eagerly sought for by the anxious bird- 

 breeders, his value is greatly enhanced. A full article on the breeding of Gold- 

 finch-Canary Hybrids may be found in the article on Canaries. 



Goldfinches may be mated and successfully reared in cages in the same manner 

 as Canaries. The best birds for the purpose are those which have been caged for 

 two or three seasons. Some breeders claim that the white-legged variety are sure 

 to mate and breed. Why this should be, I do not know ; but it is certain that the 

 attempt very often succeeds. 



The progeny of birds which have been bred and reared in cages are the best 

 materials with which to effect sure results, as their domestication makes them breed 

 more readily. 



If moulted in a dark room, or where the sunshine is wanting, the bright colors of 

 the Goldfinch are apt to become dull ; and after a second moult the bird will totally 

 lose his most brilliant colors : therefore, when moulting season arrives, the cage 

 should be hung in a sunshiny place, and the bird supplied daily with green food or 

 fruits. 



He is not subject to many diseases. Epilepsy usually is caused by fright : 

 decline is the result of too much plain food ; and giddiness results from eating too 

 much maw-seed. 



Epilepsy may be cured in the same manner as advised for Canaries. 



Decline is cured by changing the diet to rich food, such as lettuce, apple, or 

 fruits, and raw, scraped beef. 



Giddiness may be treated by withdrawing the maw-seed, and feeding on soaked 

 plantain or millet-seeds until the bird has recovered. 



Diarrhoea and Constipation should be treated in the same manner as advised 

 for Canaries. 



The Goldfinch, if properly cared for, will live caged for twelve or sixteen years, 

 and in his old age will lose none of his sprightly melody, graceful motion, or 

 beautiful color. 



