The Yellow Wagtail. 



335 



that a few fresh flies will at all times be greatly relished by 

 them. 



DiSTiNauiSHiNG Marks of Cock and Hen. — The female is not 

 only much paler in the hues of her plumage than the male, but 

 she is minus the black spots on the throat. The streak which 

 passes over the eyes will, in her case, be found white instead 

 of yellow, as in the male bird. 



Song. — The Yellow Wagtail is a better singer than either 

 of the other members of this family ; but, with this advantage 

 conceded, it cannot be regarded in the light of a song bird 

 proper. None of the species sing much, and their song at 

 all times is very limited, both in quantity and quality. 



Points to be Observed in Judging. — The Yellow Wagtail 

 is not so handsome as the Grey variety, and, consequently, 

 not so desirable as a show bird. The bird chosen should 

 be clear and bright in colour, distinct in body markings, close 

 and compact in feather, well-shaped, stylish, of good carriage 

 and general appearance, in sound health and faultless con- 

 dition, and perfectly clean. 



General Remarks. — Yellow Wagtails are often selected as 

 aviary birds, and may be readily procured, from a professional 

 birdcatcher, at from 9d. to Is. each, and sometimes less, accord- 

 ing to the season of the year and the length of time they 

 have been caught. It is probable that these birds would 

 breed in an outdoor aviary, if kept by themselves, and under 

 favourable conditions ; they would, however, require to be hand- 

 reared birds, or young ones obtained before the first moult. 

 Yellow Wagtails are hardier than the Grey variety, and live 

 longer in a state of domestication. 



Diseases and their Treatment. — These birds are subject 

 to the same complaints as the Pied and Grey varieties, and 

 require the same marked attention and careful treatment 

 during the process of the moult, which is by far the most 

 critical period in their lives. 



