Rollers sing from their throats with their beaks almost closed. The roller’s song is actually unnatural in that it is not characteristic of the wild canary. It has become a trait, however, as a result of endless training and care in selective breeding. The roller’s song is composed of rolls or “tours” of differing cadence and pitch which are things of beauty to the hobbyist who has cultivated an ear for them. Low pitched tones are considered most valuable. The more common tours are called Hollow Roll, Schockel, Hollow Bell, Water Roll, Glucke, Bell Glucke, Water Glucke, Bell Roll, and Flute.
The chopper canary’s song is natural. The standards set up for the chopper require only that he be a free and frequent singer; have a sweet tone; be a pretty bird from the standpoint of feathering, color and form; and be lively and energetic. A chopper sings with open beak, head back, throat swollen—the picture of happiness.
CANARIES FOR COMPANIONSHIP
There is gladness for every member of the family in the living, loving, happy companionship of a canary. A canary in the home helps to build character in children. It teaches kindness. Its care gives the boy or girl a feeling of responsibility. Interest in Nature is encouraged. Imagination is developed. Children acquire a protective instinct that overcomes their tendency to mischievous cruelty. When the children have left home, a pair of canaries will do much to overcome Mom’s and Dad’s loneliness.
In the sick room or the hospital, in the home for the aged, the schoolroom—in fact, almost any place where the joy of loving companionship is important—a happy, singing canary will do much to brighten the hours. You may know of someone who needs such companionship.
BUYING A CANARY
If you are about to buy a canary, go to a reputable dealer or breeder. The best period in which to make your selection and purchase is from November, after the birds have completed their first moult, through May. Explain what you want, make your own selection, and take your time about it. Take a seat in front of the birds. By watching them, you can soon tell which are singers. Compare the better singers one with another; eliminate one and repeat the process until you have selected the bird that pleases you most. Choose a bird that is smooth, brightly feathered, whose actions are sharp, crisp and sprightly.
After you have taken him home, place the carrying cage or box directly against the open door of the bird’s new home. In a short time the little chap will go from the carrying cage without being alarmed, and probably will soon be singing.
If there is no canary dealer in your locality, write to the Mail Order Department of The R. T. French Company, Rochester 9, New York. From November through May, except during the Christmas shipping rush, we are usually able to ship either French’s Carillons (choppers) or French’s Carollers (rollers) to any express office in the U.S.A. Both types are selected birds, guaranteed to arrive in full health and feather, and to sing within two weeks.