VII 



BIRDS AND MEN : PARTNERSHIPS AND 

 ASSOCIATIONS 



A TAME BARNDOOR OWL 



AN interesting addition to the growing attractions of 

 Torphichen (a village midway between Aberdeen and 

 Balmoral) is the daily presence of a young barndoor owl 

 which has become an exceedingly tame and apparently 

 interested onlooker at the evening sports. It appears that 

 about four months ago it, along with a companion, had 

 been turned out of its nest by an enemy, which killed one 

 and maimed the other, which has now become a village 

 pet. It was fortunate in being found by humane youths, 

 who took it home, fed and tended it with an affectionate 

 regard, which is being amply reciprocated by the 

 bird. My first introduction to it was when it perched 

 on the lamp-post overlooking the Bowling Green. In 

 response to a whistle and call from one of its friends it 

 came down and perched on his hand, and made no protest 

 at being stroked by me. 



The bird enjoys liberty of movement, but returns each 

 morning to the house which it regards as its home (the 

 house of the local bank manager), where it is fed and 

 supplied with water for its bath, etc. Raw flesh, mice, 

 and worms are its dainty dishes, and its appetite is most 

 vigorous. One evening last week it perched on the lawn 

 tennis net while a game was being played, and after 

 watching the flight of the balls for some time it descended 

 on to the court and chased the balls when they rolled 

 slowly near to it. Probably the balls suggested mice to it ; 



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