The Blackbird. 



203 



twenty drops of the following mixture in its drinking-water, 

 fresh every day : 



R— Tr. Opii Oamph., 3j. 

 Vin. Ipecac, 3ss. 

 Sp. Nit. (Dulcet) 3iij. 

 Tr. Lobelia, 5j. 



Shake well together before using. If the bird does not re» 

 cover in two or three weeks, use, instead of the first gargle, 

 the following : Oupri sulph., lOgrs, ; water, 6oz. Dissolve, 

 apply as before, and continue the mixture. If a bird droops 

 at any time, and you do not know its ailment, give it a spider, 

 or a few insects or small worms. If it is loose in its stools, 

 give it some old cheese, shred fine, and mixed with bread- 

 crumbs. If the opposite state of things exists, mix together, 

 into a mash, with hot water, equal quantities of peameal 

 and oatmeal, and give it to the bird ; and also put a few drops 

 of molasses in its drinking-water. Blackbirds are fond of 

 bathing, and, to keep them in health and proper plumage, 

 they should be furnished with a bath about twice a week ; but 

 do not leave the vessel inside after they have had a good 

 plunge, as they are so fond of bathing that they will con- 

 tinue the process, to their injury, so long as there is any 

 water left. 



If the use of the bath is neglected, these birds will be liable 

 to obstruction of the rump gland, a rather serious complaint, 

 for treatment of which see Chapter V., on " Diseases." 



Great attention and a frequent change of diet are necessary 

 to keep these birds in health, and they must have a fresh 

 supply of sand, or small gravel, once a week. During the 

 process of the moult they should not be exposed to cold air 

 or draughts. 



