60 MAiTAGEMENT OF PHEASANTS IN CONFINEMENT. 



he 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 imdergo 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. 



