STORKS 
kind of offal or other animal substances. Now, although 
the stork is naturally tame, it is not exactly the sort of 
bird of which to make a pet — at least for children. Its 
sharp and pointed bill is very apt to be used and directed 
towards the eyes of any one who may attempt to take any 
kind of liberty with it, or in any way interfere with the 
liberty it takes in trespassing on or about the premises. 
The bird is, however, easily driven off, and rarely offers any 
resistance. The stork will bear our winter tolerably well, 
considering that the habits of the bird are migratory, leav- 
ing the northern parts of Europe about the month of Sep- 
tember to pass the winter in Northern Africa, Egypt 
being visited by large numbers. It is only by constant 
attention, however, to provide it with food during the frost 
and hard weather that the bird can be kept, and an open dry 
shed for the bird to take shelter in is about all that has to 
be supplied. While upon the subject of tame pets, I may 
mention that my experience (which is somewhat extensive) 
has convinced me of the danger that may be encountered 
by placing too much reliance upon the good-nature of 
very tame animals. A tame stag during the rutting 
season is a caution, and if you meet him alone, you soon 
find it necessary to retire. Few ruminating animals, 
during a certain part of the year, are to be trusted, and the 
tamer they are at other times renders them the more 
to be feared. Having no fear, they generally attack you, 
whereas animals that are perfectly wild fear you, and 
rather fly from you ; in fact, in most instances you find 
it difficult to get near them. 
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