The Chaffinch. 



1 1 1 



until they have commenced to record at least some part 

 of the song they are being taught. 



Chaffinches should be kept in cages made of wood, with 

 wired fronts, the dimensions being : Length, 14in. ; height, 

 llin. or 12in. ; and width, 7in., with two perches placed on 

 the same level, and about Gin. or 7in. apart, as the birds like 

 to hop backward and forward, from one perch to the other. 

 They sing better in close than in open wired cages, and 

 they are certainly less restless. A perch should extend along 

 the front of the cage, to enable the birds to obtain their 

 food and water, which should be secured to the front wires. 



Where more than one bird is kept in the same room, it 

 will be best to place them in such a position that they will 

 not be able to see each other, as, by this arrangement, 

 the birds will sing more freely. They never sing so well in 

 an aviary as they do in cages, especially when birds of other 

 species are mixed with them. 



Chaffinches are the hardiest of birds, bathing in the 

 most inclement weather, regardless alike of frost and snow, 

 and appearing to enjoy their immersion exceedingly. They 

 always look fresh and trim, and in the best of spirits, being 

 naturally very vivacious. 



Diseases and theie Treatment, — The moult is the most 

 dangerous malady to which Chaffinches are liable. At this 

 period they should be removed out of doors, and where 

 they can get the benefit of a few hours' sunshine to 

 revel in. If they do not cast their feathers freely, and 

 appear dull and mopish, give them a few ants' eggs and 

 mealworms, and a frequent change of diet, as that will gene- 

 rally revive them in a short time. They should be per- 

 mitted to bathe freely at this time, and, if a bird refuses 

 its bath, it may be accepted as a sign that it is not alto- 

 gether well, as these birds delight in bathing. 



After the moulting is over, the scales should be removed from 

 their legs, to prevent them becoming gouty. The scales may 

 be removed with the thumb-nail or a sharp penknife, but care 

 and dexterity are needed to perform the operation in a 

 satisfactory manner, more particularly when a knife is used. 

 The nails will require frequent attention, as they grow 

 rapidly, and prevent the birds from climbing along the wires 

 of their cages, an exercise they evidently enjoy. For this 



