KKV. II. A. MACIMIERSON ON HABITS OF THE SEIHN FINCH. 475 
At Geneva, the writer observed the 8erin Fincli only on the edge 
of gardens, nor was it a common bird. Two examples caught in 
tlie environs became charming pets, and lived together pretty 
amicably, though when a bone of contention arrived the little 
fellows scolded and upbraided one another like Goldfinches. They 
exhibited a trait often remarked in the Siskin, in their preference 
for roosting upon the wires of their cage. They were fond of 
crouching close to a perch, and spreading out the Hank feathei’s, 
when they looked Avonderfully like miniature Yellow Hammers. 
The male’s song was likened to that of the Canary, though far 
leas varied ; his call-note, when agitated, might be rendered by the 
words “ pen and ink.” In hot weather these caged Serin Finches 
batheil fretpiently, and to sprinkle water playfully around was an 
unfailing amusement. In the absence of parenUil cares, they 
devoted great attention to their toilet, the male especially taking 
pains to adjust each feather with dainty j)recision. Such other 
Serin Finches as the writer has kept in confinement, with one 
exception, were imported from Spain or procured in the Paris 
bird-market in spring or autumn. Large numbers are caught near 
Paris in October. J>ut although the number recorded as actually 
obtained in England is at present small, it should be remembered 
that this is partly due to the dilHculty of authenticating specimens 
taken to tlealers by birdcatchers. 
In 18S3 Mr. W. Swaysland offered for sale two Serins caught 
near Prighton on the 21st of March, stating that the species 
occurred nejirly every year. ^Ir. Swaysland often imports birds, 
and therefore his evidence is scarcely unimpeachable. But Mr. 
Verrall of Lewes, a high authority on the small birds of the 
Sussex coast, remarks {in lift. December 3rd, 1887) : “ I have 
Mr. Howard Saunders’ list of British Birds. I do not think that 
the Serin Finch should have been printed in italics. These birds 
are more common than is generally supposed. When caught they 
arc taken and sold as Hen Siskins. The one I bred the mule 
from (Serin and Canary) that you had, was purchcosed by myself of 
a catcher in London, who was sure it was only a Hen Siskin. 
Every year or so a few are caught on the south coast.” This stiite- 
ment from a practical man (Mr. Verrall is an amateur birdcatcher 
for his own amusement, and a very clever one) was unexpectedly 
volunteered, and may be taken for what it is worth. 
