The Creeper. 



411 



Distinguishing Marks of Cock and Hen. — The male bird 

 is deeper and brighter in colour, and whiter on the throat, 

 breast, and belly, than the female. He also droops his wings 

 more, and frequently carries the points of them below the 

 tail. 



Song. — The Creeper does not sing, its vocal powers being 

 confined to making a weak, simple, and unpretentious note, 

 amounting to a mere chirrup, which it utters from time to 

 time during the pairing season, and when in quest of food. 



Points to be Obseeved in Judging. — The body colour 

 ought to be clear and bright, and the markings well defined, 

 even, and regular ; the breast, belly, and throat, silvery white \ 

 the plumage, smooth and tight ; the tail and wings, well- 

 formed, and free from damage ; the feet and claws in good 

 order, and the exhibit in prime condition, and free from dirt. 



General Eemaeks. — The Creeper is seldom kept in con- 

 finement, excepting in an aviary of small birds, for the sake 

 of variety, as it requires to be kept in a place very closely 

 wired, and where there are no loopholes for escape. 



It is a very shy and timid bird, and it is a long time before 

 it becomes quite tame and reconciled to a cage or aviary, and 

 acquainted with its attendants. It always shows fear at the 

 presence of a stranger. 



Diseases and theie Teeatment. — The Creeper is a rather 

 delicate bird. It is difficult to moult, and requires much 

 attention at this period of its existence. Insect food at this 

 time is an indispensable requisite. The birds mostly die of 

 atrophy, for want of a frequent supply of insects, their 

 natural food. For treatment of other ailments, see Chapter V., 

 on "Diseases." 



