72 BIRDS 



wire bars. It may be handsomely enameled and delicately 

 ornamented, or it may be the more plainly finished but 

 serviceable sort known as a breeding-cage. The better 

 grades of box-cages are difficult to obtain in America, al- 

 though in Europe they are in common use. But the breed- 

 ing-cage is ubiquitous, and is to be recommended when a 

 more decorative one is not available. 



The box-cage is almost essential for the well-being of 

 small cage birds, few but the canary becoming so inured to 

 cage life that they can endure the open type. Delicate 

 specimens are protected from the dangers of draughts, and 

 troublesome nightly covering with a cloth is avoided. Two 

 feet long by fifteen inches deep and high are the usual 

 dimensions of the breeding-cage. It is roomy enough for 

 one bird of fairly large size, such as a thrush, for a pair 

 of canaries or similar birds, or for a mixed group of a 

 half dozen or so small finches. Overcrowding is fatal and 

 a frequent mistake with beginners. 



The perches should be small enough for the bird to grasp 

 easily, and so placed as to allow room for flight. Excellent 

 perches may be made of natural twigs, with the bark left 

 on. These afford a grip for the bird's feet and may save 

 many a case of foot trouble. 



Sand is the proper covering for the cage bottom. White, 

 clean sea-sand is the best sort. Shells and gravel are likely 

 to injure the feet, and the common brown sand contains 

 much clay, which soon dries and becomes pulverized to 

 dust. This sand should be changed or at least brushed over 

 daily, as it is important that the bottom of the cage be dry 

 and clean. 



Foods 



According to the food they eat, the smaller cage birds are 

 divided by aviculturists into two large groups — -'' soft- 



