159



Although this small wader is very common on our coasts, and is

frequently kept in captivity, where it thrives remarkably well, it

has never been known to breed when in captivity, nor have its

eggs ever been brought home from its breeding haunts in the

North of Arctic America. Young birds just hatched have been

obtained, and, on one occasion, a nest of eggs, but the latter

were lost in a shipwreck before reaching England. It would

thus be most interesting if these birds which have paired could

be induced to lay, but personally I have not much hope on

the subject as the place they are in, though not unsuitable in

itself, is far too crowded with other Waders, Puffins, Terns, etc.

The Knot, which is grey in winter, follows the example of many

of its kind and gets red in summer, but this particular pair

were by no means in full plumage; my attention was first drawn

to them by their note, which was quite different from the usual

winter call, but which, from the short time I watched them,

I cannot attempt to describe.



NOTE FROM THE EDITOR.


I have received from a member of the Society a prospectus of the

terms upon which cage-birds can be insured against fire, burglary, and

other risks, by a member of Lloyds. Aviaries, too, can be insured against

fire. Copies of this prospectus will be sent to members of the Avicultural

Society on receipt of a stamped addressed envelope, by


H. W. Mathias,


Doone Cottage,


Thames Ditton, Surrey.


I have lately heard from Mr. CAMPBELL, of Melbourne, Australia,

that, though the subscription list to his forthcoming work on “ Nests and

Eggs of Australian Birds ” has been formally closed, members of the

Avicultural Society will be allowed to order copies at the original cost, i.e.,

if their names are registered before the book is published. Communi¬

cations are to be addressed to


Mr. Petherick,


85, Hopton Road, Streatliam,


London, S.W.


O. E. C.



CORRESPONDENCE.



“ TREATMENT OF a BIRD IN SICKNESS.”


Sir, —In the February number, under the repty to “Treatment of a

Bird in Sickness,” I quite agree with the last paragraph.


It is just twenty-one years ago since I bought some Budgerigars from

the late Anton H. Jamracli. Not knowing anything of the treatment of

foreign birds, I asked him what could be done if the birds became ill. He

replied “ Nothing.” I must say that his advice was correct, for when first



