8 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



different to the smart, active, and inquisitive bird it appears 

 when in confinement. 



The female Magpie, as is the case with most o the 

 Corvidse family, is generally a trifle larger than the male, 

 though possibly this rule is subject to variation.; its 

 plumage is not so brilliant, though the difference between 

 the sexes is difficult for amateurs to determine. 



Having, in common with the Raven and others of this 

 family, a broad tongue, the Magpie will learn to imitate 

 the human voice, and is consequently often reared from 

 the nest and made a household pet ; but if secured within 

 a cage its restlessness invariably occasions a broken tail, 

 whilst the partial freedom of a clipped wing is a source of 

 insecurity to all. Anything glittering is an especial trophy 

 to a Magpie's eye, and is forthwith taken away and 

 hidden, whilst the dog in the kennel has to keep as sharp 

 a look-out upon his dish of bones as the cook in the 

 kitchen upon her more sumptuous dainties. 



