Mrs. R. G. Ashby—Softbills



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I do not believe in over-ripe specimens. As with bathing, if a fruit-

eater will take apple he will live. Throughout the year we have a liberal

supply of fruit and the apple all the time. Pears are excellent, banana

in moderation, as it is apt to constipate, whereas orange purges. A little'

of each does no harm. The white water grapes are also popular. Try

and ring the- changes as much as possible. Remember that you have

deprived the bird of its liberty and it is your duty to give it the best

feeding and conditions possible. Dates are very good and some birds

will take figs. Cherries, strawberries, plums, pomegranate, etc., are

all cheap when in season. Green food such as lettuce and chickweed

is often appreciated. Just a hint as to the best method of giving fruit.

Make a fairly stiff piece of wire into a flat elongated “ S ”. One end will

hook on to the punchbar of the cage and the other transfix the fruit.

This has the advantage of keeping the fruit clean, gives ready access

to it, and the bird is not soiled on the neck and head.


For nectar-feeding birds, and these are probably the easiest to keep

in good health, a nectar food is essential. A thin mixture of water and

Mellin’s Food, honey, and Nestle’s condensed milk is ideal. As a change

give Horlick’s Malted Milk in the place of Mellin’s. A spot of Marmite

or other meat extract or Virol occasionally is advisable. I have never

tried white of egg in the nectar, but I am told it is good, particularly

during the moult.


Feed the nectar by means of the small fountains previously referred

to. In summer time it will be found that more nectar is consumed than

in the winter. It is advisable when renewing to make a weak mixture

of honey and water for the afternoon or evening, as this will avoid

over-fatness. Supply all the small live food obtainable. Greenfly,

spiders, and wasp grubs are live food taken by nearly all species.

Meal-worms, in moderation, and cockroaches appeal more to the larger

birds from Tanagers upwards. Incidentally, at the commencement of

the moult, put the meal-worms, etc., in olive oil before feeding with

them, and you will be surprised at the improvement in the sheen of

the plumage.


Finally a little tip on taming. Always give the live food from hand..

When the bird is used to taking it hold the food in such a manner that

the finger of the other hand must be surmounted before it can



