The Little Owl. 



All 



its hiding-place, it lands in the net, and by struggling to 

 free itself becomes hopelessly entangled. It is then only 

 necessary to unhook the net and carry off the captive 

 (see remarks on this subject in Chapter LXXXVII., on the 

 ''White Owl"). 



Food and Treatment. — In a wild state, the Little Owl 

 feeds on mice, birds, bats, and beetles. In confinement, it 

 may be fed on raw fresh meat ; mice and small birds must 

 be alternated in order to keep it in good condition and 

 robust health. 



Bearing the Young. — Follow the same treatment as re- 

 commended for rearing the young of the White Owl {vide 

 Chapter LXXXVII.). 



Distinguishing Marks ojp Cook and Hen. — The distinction 

 between the sexes is not striking. The hen is paler in colour, 

 and her general appearance and manners are quieter, more 

 retired, and effeminate-looking. 



Song. — When on the wing the Little Owl utters a cry of 

 "Poupou, poupou," but when resting it calls out more loudly 

 and clearly a different note : " Aime," or " Cheme." 



Points to be Observed in Judging. — Contour, texture 

 and closeness of feather, clearness and brightness of colour, 

 and regularity and distinctness of markings. The wings, tail, 

 feet, and claws, must be well formed, and in good order. 

 General condition, cleanliness, docility, and tractability, are 

 necessary in a bird intended for exhibition. 



General Eemarks. — The Little Owl is exceedingly courageous, 

 and has the temerity to attack a rat. It is rather noisy in 

 confinement, calling out frequently and loudly. When on 

 the wing its call note is '' Poupou." 



The Little Owl being small, may be kept in a Jay's or 

 Magpie's cage, in a shaded corner, or, if preferred, in a 

 rabbit hutch or any similar place. It does not display 

 towards its attendants those marks of attachment and gratitude 

 which are observable in the White or Tawny Owl. It 

 becomes particularly lively as the day advances toward 

 close, and is exceedingly comical and ludicrous in its actions 

 and manners, when two or more are kept together. 



Diseases and their Treatment. — The Little Owl is more 

 frequently kept in a cage than otherwise, and on this account 

 is more liable to disease than the larger varieties, which 



