146 BIRDS 



air, passing their time in describing lazy spirals, this im- 

 pression does not typify the general habit of most species. 

 Hawks, in reality, are mostly sedentary birds, passing more 

 time at rest than on the wing. In captivity the same rule 

 applies. A great space for flying is not required, and if it 

 is provided, will not be used to the extent imagined by the 

 fond owner. What is most essential to the well-being of 

 hawks is protection from draught and dampness, even if the 

 size of the enclosure be small. 



The writer has seen hawks kept for many years in superb 

 condition in large open aviaries with no shelter whatever. 

 This, however, was in a mountainous district, where the 

 air, while very cold in winter, was perfectly dry. In humid 

 localities hawks do much better if kept in cages of moderate 

 size, tightly enclosed on all sides but the front. This in- 

 sures perfect safety from dampness and draught, which no 

 hawk can endure for long. It also induces steadiness, and 

 the bird is less likely to thrash about and injure itself than 

 when enclosed in an open cage. 



As to feeding, one cannot go wrong if a natural diet is 

 followed. All hawks will eat small chickens and pigeons, 

 sparrows, rabbits, rats and mice. It is seldom that a con- 

 stant supply of such food can be obtained, and resort to 

 meat must be had. In this case fresh, lean beef is prefer- 

 able. It should never be tainted or infiltrated with fat. 

 If it cannot be alternated with "fur and feather," it should 

 be rolled in feathers or chopped tow, to provide material for 

 the pellet which is normally formed by birds of prey. Meat 

 should not be chopped, but given in a solid lump, which 

 the bird will tear for itself. Chicken heads, if fresh, are 

 an excellent food, as is heart. Liver is a natural regulator 

 and is of value in cases of constipation or over-fatness, 

 conditions not rare in this group. 



The great point to be observed in feeding birds of prey 



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