THE CAT-BIRD. 169 



owing to his mastery of the sounds known only to the cat family, he becomes quite 

 a comedian in his efforts to amuse his friends and disconcert puss. He is a very 

 careful parent ; and, when his young are in danger, he will boldly attack a snake, 

 and compel him to beat a retreat. If any one imitates the squeaking of his young, 

 he will fly to and fro with hanging wings and open mouth, seeming to implore one 

 not to annoy his suffering brood : this happens only in the breeding season. 

 The Cat-bird is most numerous in the Southern States, and flies North as the season 

 grows warmer. It is thought that they winter in the same degree of latitude as 

 Florida. 



His food and treatment is about the same as that of all soft-bill birds. The 

 prepared Mocking-bird food, and raw, grated carrot, mixed is given : and, owing to 

 his great love for fruit in his wild state, a variety of it should be furnished ; always 

 feed him the ripest, as he is used to it when he himself selects it. His diet may be 

 varied by feeding him Indian meal and milk, which will keep him free from disease. 

 In addition, feed him insects and raw beef. His cage should be the regular Mock- 

 ing-bird size, the brass cages being preferable to the wooden. After being caged 

 for a short time, he becomes used to the confinement, and will live many years. 

 The best season to trap him is after the breeding-time, which continues until about 

 June 1. When caught then, he is not so apt to pine away. If taken at the proper 

 time, there is very little difficulty in rearing him. 



