The Water Ouzel. 



211 



a great favourite, for it has some attractions to recommend 

 it, being peaceable, and not afraid of the presence of mankind, 

 and is, likewise, an admirable songster. 



When these birds are kept in confinement, it would be well to 

 place the aviary on a piece of waste ground, where there is 

 a shallow stream, or brook running through it — say on the out- 

 skirts of private pleasure grounds ; or over a piece of artificial 

 water, in such a manner that the birds cannot effect their 

 escape ; the water must be so arranged as to permit of a 

 continuous flow. A supply of moUusca and small fish could 

 be obtained, and placed in the water from time to time. 

 A rockery might be formed on the margin of the stream, or 

 miniature lake, a few tall ferns planted among the stones 

 (the common Bracken, which will grow in any shady spot), 

 and a few reeds and willows at the water's edge. Under 

 such conditions, and with a constant supply of natural food, 

 there is no reason why these birds should not thrive and 

 breed. 



Diseases and theie Treatment. — Water Ouzels generally 

 die of atrophy, as do most wild birds that are not frequently 

 supplied with the same food as they eat when in a state of 

 freedom. For treatment of this, and other complaints, see 

 Chapter V., on ''Diseases." 



