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British Cage Birds. 



down, and lie as flat and still as possible. If they are dis- 

 covered, and tlie intruder approaches them, they gaze at him 

 with intent astonishment ; and if he handle any of them, they 

 forsake the nest as soon as he has retreated a short distance 

 from the spot, even though they are little more than half 

 fledged. They then utter a mournful, wailing cry, which 

 soon attracts the parents, who lead them to a place of safety ; 

 but the cock, even under these circumstances, will not remain 

 with them, but retires to roost in his chosen quarters. As 

 soon as the young are enabled to provide for their own wants, 

 the male parent drives them right away, and will not permit 

 them to remain in the same field as himself or his partner. 

 The male bird will not permit other Larks, or small birds, to 

 prowl about within the precincts of his domain during the 

 period of nidification, and he is very solicitious for the welfare 

 of his offspring whilst under his charge. 



Methods of Captuee. — Skylarks can be taken, at the latter 

 end of June, or in July, by means of a hand net and a 

 tame Hawk. Secure the Hawk with a leather brace beneath 

 the wings, fasten a piece of cord to the brace, and carry 

 the bird on your hand, waving the latter frequently to make 

 him hover his wings, as if he was about to fly. When the 

 Skylarks perceive the Hawk, they will crouch close to the 

 ground, and lie motionless, so that you may easily, with 

 ordinary dexterity, place your net over them. 



In winter time, when the ground is covered with snow, and 

 food is scarce, they may be taken in large numbers, by the 

 seashore, in the following manner : Make a tolerably stout 

 line, 30yds. or 40yds. in length, with pack thread, and 

 secure it at each end by tying it to two stakes ; drive these 

 firmly into the sand until the line is close to it. Attach to 

 this line several gins, or nooses, each made by twisting two 

 horsehairs together ; fasten these on each side of the line 

 alternately, from 4in. to 5in. apart. The line should be 

 pegged down in several places, to keep it firm and steady ; 

 hooked sticks, or staples made of wire, can be used for this 

 purpose. Lastly, scatter along the entire length of the line a 

 few handfuls of oats ; and, if the device is skilfully managed, 

 you ought to be well rewarded for your time and trouble. 



These birds can also be taken with the day and night 

 nets — the plan usually pursued by professional birdcatchers. 



