The Sparrow Hawk. 



455 



their associates. The male bird, however, usually resists 

 such an unwarrantable liberty, and, with a sudden dash, scat- 

 ters and disperses his enemies instantly, one of them very 

 often falling a prey to his anger. It is as well, perhaps, to 

 mention that Sparrow Hawks should either be caged or 

 pinioned for a few weeks in the spring, or they will probably 

 go off in search of a partner, and fail to return. 



Diseases and their Treatment. — Sparrow Hawks are un- 

 commonly hardy, and are hardly ever seriously affected with 

 illness if given their liberty and a plentiful supply of whole- 

 some food. Place a dish of fresh spring water for them to 

 drink every morning where they can obtain it without dijQfi- 

 culty. 



These birds thrive through all weathers and seasons ; but 

 when caged they are apt to get sore feet and cramp, and 

 sometimes to become a little dull during the moulting season. 

 For the first-named complaint, see Chapter V., on "Diseases," 

 and for the latter, give a change of diet. 



