60 CANARY BIRDS. 



better ; but do not leave them to be almost 

 baked in a hot sun. There should always 

 be a shaded place in the cage ; not a dark 

 cloth over it, but a branch or two of some 

 tree, making a trembling shadow. They 

 thrive best with the food of wild birds, such 

 as thistle-seed, plantain, chickweed, and per- 

 haps more important than all, some insects ; 

 ants' eggs are good, and are found in their 

 hills ; but aphides and most insects are wel- 

 come. I doubt if young birds can eat too 

 much. The chief danger is their not getting 

 enough food. 



The little birds moult at a very early age, 

 almost before they can fly. Extra warmth, 

 extra food, and extra quiet are at this time 

 necessary. If they survive September, > it 

 may fairly be hoped they will do well. 



" Wonderfully tame these little pets grow. 

 I have one who follows my hand about the 

 side of a large cage, just like a little dog, 

 nestling up against it, and putting its little 

 claw out through the wires to take hold of 



