272 A Small Ainaii/ and Iln htmatcs. 
mules in the same aviary as the foreigners, tliis crowding 
becomes acute during the breeding season. As I have stated, 
I keep the nesting accommodation for foreigners alx)ve the 
5ft. 4in level. Below this I have four large double breeders 
for the Canaries; the young birds, however, hav^e to be turned 
out into the flight as soon as they lare independent. 
My choice of birds is limited in many ways. Firstly, 
price; secondly by the fact that I use no heat, winter or 
summer; thirdly, in that I only keep seed -eaters; and fourflily, 
by the fact that I wish to keep only such birds as will l)reed in 
my aviary. I keep to the last named restriction because* 
1 think that breeding is the only true icritei'ion of suitable 
conditions in captivity.* 
The following species have reared young successfully 
with me: Zebra Finches, Bengalese, Parson Finches, .Java 
Sparrows, Olive Finches, and Canaries (Loudon Fancy) ; Gold- 
finch-Canary, and Twite -Canary. 
Hatched, but not reared to independence: St. Helena 
Seed -eaters, and Cut-tliroats. 
Laid eggs: Ked-headed Finches, Bullfinches, and Stri- 
ated Finches. 
I have tried three times to acclimatise Gouldian Finches, 
but have never got them over their importation sickness. I 
have bad Cordon Bleus and Lavender Finches, but found they 
did not winter out of doors. Mannikins, several Waxbills, 
and Spice -birds did not breed and were therefore given up. 
The aviary has a southern aspect, but is exposed to 
strong winds. In winter I sometimes have to break tho, 
ice in the water j^ots several times a day. 
I give, a very mixed seed diet. Thei'c is always Canary, 
millet, hemp, rape, teazle, linseed and oats, in the food traj^s. 
Green food in variety and abundance is sup])lied daily, a iiitle 
food, crumbled dog biscuit, etc., during tlie breeding season, 
and in very cold weather; also fresh ants' eggs and green 
iiy ui summer. Ordinary tap water is used and changed twice 
daily . 
*This is only the limitation of a given aviary, as suitable, 
accommodation can be provided for almost every species oi' birds the 
aviarist may specialise in. — Ed. 
