84 BIRDS 



No bird should be purchased unless it seems to be in 

 good condition. A few feathers missing or a slightly be- 

 draggled appearance is of small moment, as if the bird is 

 really in good health these defects are soon remedied. A 

 thin, dull-eyed bird, no matter how fine its plumage, should 

 never be taken. 



The determination of sex in some species is difficult. In 

 many, of course, the male and female differ entirely in 

 color, and in such cases any reliable dealer will assist the 

 novice in making selections. In others there may be some 

 insignificant distinguishing mark, and some are easily known 

 by size. A few, however, are to be known only by the size 

 and shape of the head and beak, an excellent character 

 for making sure of the sex of difficult species. 



All newly purchased birds, no matter how healthy they 

 may appear, should be isolated for a period ranging from 

 a week to a month or more, until it is certain that they 

 are free from disease and well accustomed to the feeding 

 regime. Fresh birds, turned into a mixed collection without 

 an opportunity to rest and become familiar with new foods, 

 are very likely to perish miserably before getting properly 

 oriented. Every aviary or bird room should have its regular 

 quarantine room, where arrivals may be received and pre- 

 pared for introduction to the collection. 



