144 CANARIES AND CAGE-BIRDS. 



nest, and reared by hand. Only a few are imported ; but, when one is introduced 

 into a household, he immediately takes rank as one of the most delightful of pets. 



His food in confinement should be the prepared Mocking-bird food ; and he should 

 have an abundance of insects and meal-worms, as it is on this class of food that he 

 subsists when wild. A few berries in their season, and fruits of different kinds, 

 should be given as a change ; and these will generally keep him free from diseases. 



He is naturally a strong, hardy bird, and in the summer season should be hung 

 outdoors in the sunshine. Like all his class, he is fond of his daily plunge : he also 

 delights to play with stones or pebbles, taking them in his beak, and hammering 

 them on the bottom and sides of his cage. Such pebbles should be given with the 

 gravel, which should be plentifully sprinkled on the bottom of his cage. He usually 

 lives for ten years. 



The regular wood-framed or brass Mocking-bird cages are the best for him. He 

 is kept for sale in the bird-shops the entire year. 



