286



A. Allen—An Experiment with Grass Parrakeets

White-bellied Woodpecker, Leuconerpes candidus. U.K.,



1937.


325. NIGHTJAR. Germany, 1907. Bred on a hearth-rug in a room.


326. HOOPOE. U.K., 1911, and 1936 ; also abroad.


Kingfisher. In A.M., 1933, p. 91. Hampe says that a brood


of six young were reared in an Austrian aviary. (Carniel.)


327. laughing jackass. 1905 and 1911. U.K.


328. Common Roller. U.K., 1901.


Lort’s Roller. U.K., 1929.



AN EXPERIMENT WITH GRASS PARRAKEETS


By A. Allen


Towards the end of January this year three aviaries were completed

to a specification designed by Lord Tavistock. They were built

exclusively for Grass Parrakeets. The chief factors incorporated

were : thermostatically controlled electric heating, a roomy shelter

occupying approximately one quarter of the whole aviary, and a tiled

flight containing two recessed openings which permitted contact

with the soil, one containing peat and the other filled to the level of

the tiling with clean soil. These openings are wired to exclude vermin.


The exact measurements are not of vital importance ; I may remark,

however, that the general design and size are the outcome of experience

and collaboration with other aviculturists. They are the result of

an analysis of factors found in practice suitable for the promotion of

avian virility.


Two aviaries were intended to house, respectively, one pair of

Splendid Grass Parrakeets (Neophema splendida) and one pair of

Turquoisines. The third was to house the young, if any.


The stock needs describing, because perfect breeding pairs of

Splendids and Turquoisines cannot be had to order. Here then is

the known history of the two pairs. Both Splendids were imported



