124 FAMILIAR WILD BIRDS. 



frequent the mouths of rivers, and even as far as to the sea- 

 shore. 



The eggs of the King-fisher are pure white, and generally 

 from five to six in number. The plumage of the young is 

 similar to that of the adult birds, but, of course, not so 

 bright. 



The call is but a shrill pipe, or squeal. 



Kingfishers may be kept in an aviary, provided proper 

 food is given, putting birds caught young at first upon 

 small fish, and gradually substituting fresh beef chopped 

 small and hard-boiled egg. It is not advisable to have more 

 than a proper pair, on account of their very pugnacious 

 habits. It is needless to say that if a little water be in- 

 troduced into the aviary, and small fish be given, it is 

 possible to make the Kingfisher one of the most beautiful 

 and interesting of the inhabitants. 



