The Missel Thrush. 



223 



Points to be Observed in Judging. — These birds are 

 occasionally exhibited, and, although they are handsome in 

 appearance when in good condition and clean, are not likely 

 to be placed in the prize list when competing against 

 grand specimens of the Song Thrush. The same points 

 must be looked for as in the Song Thrush, which will be 

 found fully enumerated in the chapter treating of that variety. 



General Eem arks.— The Missel Thrush is known by a 

 variety of names in different parts of the country, such as 

 the Storm Cock, the Grey Thrush, the Holm Thrush, 

 the Big Throstle, and — an appropriate name — Mistle Thrush. 

 It is not a favourite with bird keepers, generally speaking, 

 as, in addition to the bad qualities already mentioned, 

 it is a dirty bird, and, to keep in anything like good order, 

 it requires a cage as large as that used for a Magpie or Jay, 

 which is not always convenient. It is rather diflficult to pro- 

 cure in some parts, but, being so much inferior in its song, 

 and other attractive qualities, to its congener, the Song 

 Thrush, very few lovers of birds care to take the trouble 

 to rear them by hand. When first caught, most of the 

 older birds sulk, and decline to partake of food, many of them 

 dying in consequence. 



Diseases and their Treatment. — These birds are very 

 liable to the cramp, constipation of the bowels, consumption, 

 and affections of the rump gland. Eegular bathing is the 

 best preventative of the last-mentioned complaint. See Chapters 

 on the Blackbird " and Song Thrush," and Chapter V., on 

 " Diseases." 



