Pet Ozvls.



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floor of the same room on more than one occasion. Although it

was able to rise and steer itself in the air, it never seemed to

realize the presence of the wall, but would fly straight into it

and then flutter helplessly to the ground.


The bird always shunned light, and when at liberty in¬

variably sought the darkest corner of the room, and always

seemed more lively towards evening. I believe the food is found

entirely by the sense of smell, and that vision, at any rate in

daylight, is poor, for when put in the neighbourhood of food it

obviously knew food was there, and, when close to it, it often

pecked at it, but in doing so made many bad shots at it before

taking it in its bill, The only noise I heard it utter was a soft

“chuck” when on one occasion I was holding it.



PET OWLS.


Bv Katharine Currey.


I have always loved Owls, and one of my early recollections

was a very tame Barn Owl. so tame that he came flying when

whistled for, and perched on onr shoulders or arm. He had a

tragic end, poor “ Billy,” for he fell down a chimney, and emerged

in the likeness of a Crow. He died soon after. I have kept

Tawny Owls for many years and they are enchanting pets and

most sagacious. “Duffles” and wife have lived very happily

for years in a very large aviary under some ancient yews, where

some sunlight can penetrate, but I think they need more. They

pei ch on the thick branches, and on some poles, and hide

behind the old stems. The wire-netting is large enough to admit

mice, and I feel sure they catch these for themselves, and also

probably young rats.


They are fed every evening, and have a pan of water in

case they wish to bathe, as they seem to enjoy a rainy day. They

have boxes to hide in during the day. I think their note is most

musical and pleasing, flute-like in its soft melody, and I cannot

understand why many people find it unpleasant. Alas ; some

days ago one escaped, by a pure accident. The gardener opened

the door to put in a mouse, and the Owl flying at his hand to get

it, missed and flew out. It tried to come back to its home, but

the rooks chased it away and I was in despair, for Owls are the



