The Sons; Thrush. 



219 



and rub their legs well with goose or capon grease. If they 

 are observed to scour, give them some good old cheese, 

 rubbed or grated fine, mixed with a few breadcrumbs, and 

 add a piece of prepared chalk, and a teaspoonful of cinnamon 

 water, to its ordinary drinking-water. Thrushes are liable 

 to an obstruction of the rump gland if not regularly supplied 

 with a bath — say twice a week. If a Song Thrush refuses to 

 bathe, it is a sign that it is not well, as these birds take great 

 delight in their ablutions. If sand and small gravel is not 

 supplied to them regularly, their digestive organs become im- 

 paired, and they die of atrophy. Bread — good sweet, home- 

 made preferred — is beneficial to the health of birds, as it 

 contains a small portion of salt, and this is necessary to their 

 well-being. Song Thrushes, when well cared for, and sup- 

 plied with suitable food, will live in confinement for periods 

 varying from six to ten years. 



