In one of the cages at Lincoln Park are two pigeons or doves most
peculiarly marked. They belong to the variety known as the "Bleeding
Heart."
Their backs and wings are of a bluish slate color, while their breasts
are white, save for a spot of vivid crimson in the center. This spot
is precisely like the stain which would be produced by a wound. It is
about an inch in length, and the color fades out at the edges softly
in little streaks.
One can scarcely believe the little creatures are not victims of some
cruel thrust, and the park employes say that lovesick people are wont
to lean for hours on the railing opposite the cage, and, fixing their
sad eyes on the birds, will moan in sympathy while they shed bitter
tears.
[Illustration: LILY OF THE VALLEY.
Life-size.
CHICAGO:
A. W. MUMFORD, PUBLISHER.
COPYRIGHT 1900, BY
NATURE STUDY PUB. CO., CHICAGO.]