254 



British Cage Birds. 



Points to be Observed in Judging. — The remarks on 

 this subject given with reference to the Titlark are equally 

 applicable to this bird. The clearer the face and wing 

 markings, and the purer and brighter the various colours of 

 the plumage, the more valuable may the specimen be con- 

 sidered as a competitor on the show bench. 



General Remarks. — The Meadow Lark is best kept in a 

 cage, as it does not thrive well in an aviary. It requires a 

 good deal of attention to keep in fine condition, as it subsists, 

 when in a wild state, almost exclusively on insects. It makes 

 a nice cage bird, and, being a free singer, is worth while 

 spending some trouble to keep in order. It will not, under 

 the most favourable conditions, breed in confinement. Newly- 

 caught male birds may be purchased of dealers, or birdcatchers, 

 for 9d. or Is. each ; but thoroughly domesticated specimens are 

 more valuable, and are worth from 2s. 6d. up to 15s. each, 

 according to their vocal powers and appearance combined. 



Diseases and their Treatment. — These birds are subject 

 to the same diseases as are the other varieties of the Alauda 

 family ; but this is, probably, the most delicate bird of the 

 entire genus, and the most difficult to keep in health and 

 condition. The same precautions must be observed as laid 

 down in treating of the other members of the family. 



Diarrhoea is the complaint from which these birds suffer 

 most, though they generally die of consumption or atrophy. 



