F. E. Matthews—Hand Rearing Long-tailed Grass Finches 229'


HAND REARING LONG-TAILED GRASS

FINCHES


By F. E. Matthews


The one who has possessed the' Avicultubal Magazine for many

years has a treasure—a mine of information, and one says, “ Let-

knowledge grow from more to more. 55 As its membership increases,,

the privilege is extended to many who, though keen aviculturists,.

cannot aspire to own many of the birds described by 45 Highbrows ”'

and breeders of long standing.


May I venture to suggest that there are many who like myself are-

momentarily content to say


“ Small things are best . . .


But little things.


On little wings,”


and they gladly welcome information upon the methods of others—--

their successes (and failures, too). It is always easier to write of our

successes—but possibly the whole story may be a warning to others !


To be prepared for misfortunes this year we provided some

Bengalese. So far their qualities as foster parents have not been tested,,

but their own families have steadily increased.


Through various causes the Gouldians did not nest last year.


Now the cock has just emerged from a long moult into splendid,

plumage, and the hen who had been in form has plunged into moult.

Taking counsel with one who knows the ways of Gouldians, Mr. Teague-

says, “ Have patience.” There are no marvels to relate about Melbas—

a very fine cock lost his mate in the early spring. Young Diamond

Sparrows seem likely to mate up ; having been bred at home they are

healthy. A pair of White Javas have a nest of four fine birds. Diamond

Doves have reared two birds in their quiet way, and two other pairs

have nests hatching out.


All seemed prosperous with two pairs of Longtailed Grass Finches,

who had an aviary to themselves, one pair choosing a home-made

cone-shaped rush nest placed in the fork of a branch high up in the

shelter, and the other a Keston finch-box. Knowing these birds must -



