60 MANAGEMENT OF PHEASANTS IN CONFINEMENT. 
be trampled into the floors of the dwelling, are ever within a few inches, be it 
recollected, of their respiratory organs. In connection with this matter also, it is 
wise to have duplicate shallow circular galvanised iron water pans of about eighteen 
inches in diameter. They are light, and consequently more likely to undergo that 
thorough and frequent cleansing so necessary.” 
The best baskets for the transport of pheasants for short distances are those 
made of close brown wicker; in shape they should resemble a basin turned upside 
down, the part corresponding to the foot of the basin being uppermost, and forming 
the only opening into the basket. Before being used this opening should be covered 
with canvas, which is to be closely stitched down half way round, previously to the 
birds being placed inside, and firmly secured afterwards. In these baskets they are 
free from observation and molestation when travelling by rail or carrier, and from the 
baskets being close and circular they are much less liable to injure their plumage 
than when sent in more open and angular packages, In forwarding live birds care 
should always be taken to attach a stout and somewhat loose cord across the top 
of the basket, in order to serve as a convenient handle by which it can be lifted 
with one hand, otherwise, in the hurry of transit, the railway porters, who cannot 
be expected to use both hands in lifting every package, are certain to catch it up 
suddenly by one side, and the birds are often severely injured by being suddenly 
and violently thrown against the opposite one, and necessarily very greatly alarmed. 
The consideration of the best means of arranging for the transport of birds 
over long distances and by shipboard, are given at length in the Appendix. 
