Genre:

Anecdote

Subjects:

Ornithology, Animal Behaviour, Anthropomorphism, Menageries

    Introduces the anecdote by noting that the 'common sparrow is a species of bird which commands the least attention', but that 'after the perusal of the following anecdote, it may ever be looked upon with admiration' (124). The anecdote concerns a sparrow which was used to solicit alms from Anne C Helvétius. Describes her 'singular attachment to birds', the 'large aviary' at her country residence, and her knowledge of the subject.