76 BIRDS 



two days, and then used in moderation, there is no reason 

 why their feeding should be other than beneficial. If al- 

 lowed to remain another day or two, they will turn into 

 chrysalids, when they make a very good food. 



Fruit is the principal article of diet of many birds, such 

 as tanagers, orioles and certain thrushes. Banana is the 

 best and fortunately the cheapest. It should be ripe but 

 firm and free from over-softness. In some cases it is best 

 to cut it into small cubes, which may be swallowed entire, 

 the only objection being that it quickly decomposes when in 

 this condition. Other birds prefer the entire fruit, but some 

 will get badly smeared about the head if it is given in this 

 form. 



Oranges are good, but tangarines are better, as they are 

 less acid. Grapes, especially the white sort, are very useful, 

 and should be cut for most birds. Pears are excellent but 

 laxative, and dried raisins and currants are eaten freely, 

 but are likely to contain harmful preservatives. Native 

 berries should be given when in season, but it must be borne 

 in mind that they are strongly laxative in action. 



Green food is necessary for all birds that will eat it, 

 and most will do so freely. Chickweed, watercress, dande- 

 lion and flowering grasses all are good. In the winter 

 months lettuce is generally obtainable, and will serve to tide 

 the birds over until other greens are again available. 



Cuttlefish bone should be furnished all seed-eaters, and 

 a lump of rock salt will be relished by many. 



The foregoing directions will serve for most species of 

 the cage-bird group. Those whose care differs, or which 

 need special attention, will be noted in due order. 



Diseases 



When properly kept or cared for, birds in captivity suffer 

 from few diseases. It is only when they become run down 



