CAGE BIRDS i93 



tion. In some species male and female are easily distin- 

 guished, in others sexual distinctions are difficult. 



Waxbills will thrive at liberty in an aviary, once they 

 have become acclimatized, but of course must have heat 

 during the winter months. They are seldom quarrelsome 

 and many bird-keepers make a practice of grouping them in 

 large brass cages of the usual open type, where, if not over- 

 crowded, they seem to do very well. If too many are placed 

 together, they very often form the habit of plucking the 

 feathers from each other's heads, so that they make a for- 

 lorn appearance. It is much safer, however, to have the 

 cage partly enclosed, even if in a well-heated room, as 

 draughts are always likely to occur. If only a single pair 

 or so are kept, they will be better in a box cage, where they 

 will have ample protection. 



Many Wlaxbills will nest in aviaries or even in cages. 

 For the purpose small boxes or other receptacles, enclosed 

 on all sides and with a small entrance hole, may be provided. 

 These the little creatures will fill with nesting material, such 

 as hay, feathers, cotton, hair, etc. Twine is not desirable, 

 as the birds' legs are likely to become entangled. When 

 completed, the nest may be used not only for its legitimate 

 purpose, but as a sleeping-chamber as well. Incubation with 

 most speties requires about twelve days, and the young are 

 fed by the parents, chiefly by regurgitation from the crop. 

 Plenty of green food should be provided at that time, also 

 seeding grasses, small insects and a little soft food, which 

 most species will take. 



When first received Waxbills are very likely to be deli- 

 cate. They must be kept carefully enclosed in cages, and 

 watched closely for some time, until their owner is assured 

 that they are in good fcondition. It is of great importance 

 that the supply of sand to newly imported Waxbills and 

 other small finches as well be restricted. Siich birds are 



