720 ZOOLOGICAL 
MONG the many groups of birds possess- 
ing ornate qualities, few are so hardy in 
captivity, or thrive with such meagre care, 
as that formed by the cranes. It is true that 
the ornamental value of these birds is not, as 
yet, fully recognized in America, although they 
are kept extensively on European estates; still, 
large numbers of cranes are brought to this 
country annually, and there is no doubt that 
their popularity is steadily increasing. 
Captive cranes are, perhaps, of greatest inter- 
est when enjoying their liberty on an extensive 
range; but the aviculturist who is truly inter- 
ested in them will wish to confine his specimens 
where they can be kept under 
For this pur- 
pose, a plot of two or three acres 
of ground should be selected, and 
enclosed by a fence which need not 
exceed five feet in height. The 
Crane Paddock in the Zoological 
Park is so nearly an ideal home 
for most of the members of the 
Society's excellent collection, that 
a description of it may be of in- 
terest. 
The paddock is about 150 feet 
square, and is surrounded by an 
ornamental fence, averaging four 
feet in height. While most of the 
inmates are pinioned, they can leap 
this fence easily when alarmed, 
although they never attempt to do 
so under ordinary circumstances. The enclos- 
ure is well carpeted with grass, which is kept 
closely cropped during the summer months. A 
number of large shade trees is included within 
its limits, besides several clumps of shrubs, 
which afford seclusion to any birds which desire 
it. One of the most valuable features, however, 
is a little stream that traverses the entire length 
of the paddock. The birds derive an infinite 
amount of pleasure from wading and probing 
about in the little pools, and the effect produced 
is certainly most pleasing to onlookers. A small 
shed is provided for use during severe weather, 
although it is seldom entered. The Manchurian, 
whooping, white-necked, sarus and _ sandhill 
closer observation. 
LITTLE BROWN CRANE. 
SOCIETY BULLETIN. 
The CRANE COLLECTION 
of the ZOOLOGICAL PARK. 
By Lz S. Crannauy, Acting Curator of Birds. 
cranes are confined here, while the others are 
divided between the Wild Fowl Enclosure and 
the Ostrich House. 
Few birds require so little attention as the 
cranes. Their chief food is grain, but ocea- 
sional mice, frogs, fish or chopped meat are al- 
ways appreciated and become a necessity dur- 
ing cold weather. Many of the species are per- 
fectly hardy, provided healthy specimens are 
secured. If acquired in the spring and given 
an opportunity for becoming acclimated, they 
will live in the open through the winter, happily 
and well, requiring only that they receive their 
food and water regularly. Some protection 
from wind should be provided, of 
course; and it is well to place 
within the enclosure a small shed, 
although it is safe to say that the 
birds will use it rarely, unless 
driven in. 
A surprising assiduity in the 
search tor worms and tender roots 
is a failing which may become 
serious, and result, especially after 
rain, in the uprooting of patches 
of turf. Generally this can be 
checked effectively either by con- 
fining the birds for a short time 
following showers, or by covering 
their favorite feeding grounds 
with small branches. 
The greatest difficulty in the 
maintenance of a large collection 
of cranes is found in the erratic disposition of 
the birds. A number may live together for 
months in perfect harmony; but just as the col- 
lector begins to congratulate himself on their 
good behaviour, one may be found with an eye 
missing, or with its skull pierced! It really is 
not safe to associate the larger and smaller spe- 
cies in a permanent group, unless the enclosure 
be very large, or the number of birds very small. 
Great care must be taken in introducing strange 
birds to a flock already well settled. The new- 
comers are certain to be subjected to a more or 
less harrowing inspection by the original in- 
mates, who consider them as nothing more than 
intruders. The strangers will be persistently 
