AM ERIC AX RED LINNET. 103 



AMERICAN RED LINNET. 



THIS bird is a charming songster, and a rival of the Englishman of the same sur- 

 name. He is commonly seen in our Northern woods in the summer season. The 

 colors of the male, after attaining the full plumage, are red or rose color, most in- 

 tense on the head, mixed with dusky streaks on the back, fading to white on the 

 belly and vent ; wings and tail dusky, with reddish edgings. The females and 

 young male birds have no red or bright colors on their plumage, but resemble some 

 of the Sparrow tribe : they may be recognized by the short, stout bill. While the 

 male birds are changing their colors, they show every gradation between the colors 

 of the opposite sexes, and frequently show saffron or bronzy tints throughout the 

 plumage. They are naturally tame, and delight to build their nests near the habita- 

 tion of man. The length of the Red Linnet is about five inches and a half. The 

 male bird sings throughout the year, and is a most desirable songster to cage ; being 

 exceedingly tough, owing to living in the Northern climate. The treatment and 

 care should be the same as for Canaries. Linnets are trapped in large numbers, 

 but rarely bred in confinement. 



Throughout the Northern States is also found a Gray Linnet, a larger specimen 

 than the Red, resembling in appearance the coloring of the Sparrow race. This 

 bird also makes a most excellent songster and good cage-bird. 



Other varieties of the Linnet family are the Redpoll and Pine Linnet, both 

 good specimens. The members of the Linnet family are all noted for their tough- 

 ness, and the ease with which they may be tamed. They all require the same care 

 and treatment as given to Canaries. 



