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Sanyal, Rambramha

A hand-book of the
management of animals...

Calcutta

 

1892

  

 

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University of California at Berkeley Library
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FORMAT: BK LEVEL: r ISBN: GLAD|S#: 67315847H
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ME: Sanyal, Rambramha.

Tl: A hand-book of the management of animals in captivity in Lower Bengal /
by Ram Bramha Sanyal

lM: Calcutta : Printed at the Bengal Secretariat Press, 1892

CO: xlix, 351 p., [3] leaves of plates : ill. ; 26 cm

CALL: QL77.C3.83
BIOS

Microfilmed by University of California Library Photographic Service,
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A

HAND-BOOK

OF THE

MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS IN CAPTIVITY

LOWER BENGAL,

By RAM BRAMHA SA‘NYAL,
Superintendent of the Zoological Garden, Calcutta.

 

PUBLISHED UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE COAIMITTEE FOR THE
MANAGEMENT OF THE ZOOLOG'IC'AL GARDEN, CALCUTTA.

 

dLaImtta:
PRINTED AT THE BENGAL SECRETARIAT PRESS. '

1892.

, Price Rs. 5.

 

PREFACE.

—_.__+._..___

IN the Resolution of the Government of Bengal on
the Report of the Committee for the management of the
Zoological Garden, Calcutta, for the year 1888-89, the
following passage occurred :-—- '

“As the Zoological Gardens have now been in existence for 13
years (since 1875-7 6), it is presumable that many events have
taken place among the large number of animals, birds, 850.,
exhibited from time to time which would be of interest to the
scientific world and to persons interested in'zoology; also, that
considerable experience must have been. gained in the manage-
ment of animals, birds, 850., in confinement, and their treat-
ment in sickness, which would be of practical use to the
managing bodies of other Zoological Gardens and to individuals
who have private collections. Sir Steuart Bayley is strongly
of Opinion that it is incumbent on all persons who keep
animals in captivity to avoid, as far as possible, anything like
cruelty (such as want of space, or air, proper food or cleanli-
ness) in their treatment, and he recognizes that the Zoological
Gardens’ Managing Committee set an excellent example in
this respect. He would venture to suggest that from the
records of the Committee and the recollections of their able
Superintendent, it would be possible for them to produce
a hand-book which might be of great use to the numerous
nobles and other persons who on a smaller scale 'keep collec-
tions of animals or birds in captivity.”

At a meeting of the Committee on April 2nd, 1890, it
was determined that a Sub-Committee be appointed to give
eflect to the above Resolution. '

This hand-book hasaccordingly been prepared by fi kw
R. B. sanyal, the Superintendent of the garden, on a plan
drawn up by the Sub-Committee. Mr. C. E. Buckland, c.s.,
has supervised the preparation of the work. Its principal
aim has been to collect the experience gained in the Calcutta

erases

C

 

O.

11

Zoological Garden in the management of animals, and to
state the facts in the fashion most likely to render them
practically useful as a guide to those Who may keep private
collections of animals. Some notice has been taken of every
species of animal ever exhibited in the garden, and in
doing this the ordinary scientific classification has been
adhered to: at the same time, the use of scientific terms has
been to a great extent avoided, and vernacular equivalents
have been substituted for them.

AUTHOR’S PREFACE.

SHOULD this book fall into the hands of any European
naturalist or manager of a vivarium, I trust that he .Will
consider the fact that it is intended for India, Where trained
supervision is a desideratum. Besides, its publication may
stimulate others more experienced and competent to record
and publish the result of their experience; so that, 1n time,
a more accurate and extensive literature on the treatment of
animals in captivity may be produced.

As the object of the hand-book has been to take notice,
as far as possible, of the treatment adopted or necessary in
individual cases, some repetition has been unavordable.

With regard to the classification, description, and distri-
bution of animals, I have generally followed Anderson,
Blanford, Hume, J erdon, Oates, Sclater, Scully, and other
naturalists of repute. My obligations are due to Mr. C. E.
Buckland, 0.53., for the supervision he has given to my efforts,
and to Mr. W. L. Sclater, Deputy Superintendent, indlan
Museum, for having allowed me access to the collect1on of
skins in the possession. of the Indian Museum, and for his
general advice and assistance.

ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS, ’ ,
' Calcutta, March 1892. . R. B. SANYAL.

 

 

. The Long-armed Ape .

. Phuyre’s Leaf Monkey

. The Proboscis Monkey

. The Red-haired Monkey

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

.___+._____
PART .I.
CLASS MAMMALIA.
ORDER PRIMATES’.

Family Simiidae.
GENUS SI MIA.

. The Orang-Outang

(Simia satyrus—Linn.)

GENUS HYLOBATES.

. The Hoolock Gibbon .

(Hylobates hoolock—(Ha/rlan.) )

. The White-checked Gibbon

(Hylobates leucogenys- Ogilby.)

. The White-handed Gibbon .

(Hylobates lath—(Linn) )

. The Agile Gibbon

(Hylobates agilis-F. C’um‘er.)

(Hylobates leuciscus—(SckrebJ

. The Siamang . .

(H ylobates syndactyluv—(Desm) )

Family Cercopithecidaa.
ensue SEMNOPITHECUS.

. The Hanuman

(Semnopithecus entellus-(qureane) )

. The Crested Monkey . . . .

(Semnopithecus cristatus—(Rafles)

(Semnopithecus phayrei—(Blyth) )

. The Assam Langur . . .

(Semnopitecus pileathus—Blytk.)

(SemnOpithecus (Nasalis) larvatus-—Geofi'. St. Hilaire.)

o O
Semnopithecus rubicundus~Muller.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

The Banded Leaf Monkey .
(Semnopithecus femoralis—Horyield.)
The Purple-faced Monkey .
(Semnopithecus cephalopterus—Zimm.)
The Simpai
(Semnopithecus melalophus-F Caviar.)

GENUS CERCOPITH ECUS.

The Diana Monkey
(Cercopithecus diana-(L1'nn.))
The Malbrouck Monkey
(Cercopithecus cynosurus—Scop.)
The Green Monkey
(Cercopithecus callitricus—Is. Geofi'r.)
The Talapoin Monkey
(Cercopithecus talapoin—(Eml.) )
The Hocheur Monkey . .
(Cercopithecus nictitans~(Linn.) )
The Pluto Monkey
(Cercopithecus pluto— Gray. )
The Lesser White-nosed Monkey
(Cercopithecus petaurista—(Schreb.) )
The Moustache Monkey . . .
(Cercopithecus eephus~(L1:nn.) )
The Patas Monkey . .
(Cereopithecus patas—(Sckreb.) )
The Mona Monkey . .
(Cercopitheeus mona—( Schreb.) )

GENUB MACACUS.

The Rhesus Monkey

(Macacus rhesus—(AudebertJ )
The Macaque Monkey

‘(Macacus cynomolgus— (Liam) )
The Himalayan Monkey .

(Macacus assamensis~Mc Olelland. )
The Brown Stumpetailed Monkey

(Macacus arctoides—Is, Geofr.)
The Lion-tailed Monkey

(Macaeus silenus—Schreb.)
The Burmese Pig-tailed Monkey

(Macacus leoninus~Blyth.)
The Pig-tailed Monkey

(Macacus nemestrinus—(LinnJ )
The Bonnet Monkey .

(Macacus shims—(Linn) )
The Toque Monkey .

(Macacus pileatus—-(Shaw ) )

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS CYNOCEPHALUS.

The Sacred Abyssinian Baboon .
(Cynocephalus hamadryas—(Linn.) )
The Chacma Baboon .
(Cynocephalus porcarius—(Bodd.) )
The Mandrill . .
(Cynocephalus mormon ~(Linn.) )

Family Cebidae.
(1mm CH RYSOTHRIX.

The Squirrel Monkey . .
(Chrysothrix sciurea—(Linn.) )

GENUS CEBUS.

The Weeper Capuchin
(Cebus capuchinus—Geqfr.)

Family Hapalidae.
GENUS HAPALE.

The Common Marmoset
(Hapale jacchus—(Linn.) )

ORDER LEMURES.

Family Lemuridw.

GENUS LEMUB.

The Mongoose Lemur
(Lemur mongoz——(Linn.) )
The Rufied Lemur
(Lemur varius-—— Geqfl‘i'.)
The Yellow-fronted Lemur
(Lemur flavifrons~ Gray.)

Genus GALAGO.

Garnett’s Galago
(Galago garnetti—-—(nglby.) )

SUB-FAMILY Lomsmm.

GENUS NYCTICEBUS.

The Slow Loris .
(Nycticebus tardigradus—(Lz'nn. ) )

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

ORDER CARNIVORA.

Family Felida.

GENUS FELIS.

The Lion
(Felis lee—Linn.)
The Tiger .
(Felis t1gr1s—Lmn )
The Leopard .
(Felis pardus—vLinn.)
The Ounce or Snow-Leopard
(Felis uncia~Schreb.)
The Clouded Leopard .
(Felis nebulosa— Gmfiith.)
The Marbled Cat
(Felis marmorata—Ma/rtin.)
The Golden Cat. .
(Felis temmincki——V1Ig.& Homfi)
The Fishing Cab. . .
(Felis viverrina—Bennett.)
The Leopard Cat
(Felis bengalensis—Kerr.)
The Rusty-spotted Cat .
(Felis rnbiginosa—Is. Geofl‘r.)
The Jungle Cat . .
(Felis chaus— Giild.)
The Caracal
(Felis cancel—- Guld. )
The Lynx .
(Felis lynx-Linn.)
The Puma .
(Felis concolor—Lz'nn)
The Jaguar
(Felis once—Linn.)
The Ocelot
(Felis pardalis—Lz'nn.)
The Domestic Cat . . .
(Felis catus, var. domesticns—Erxl.)

GENUS CYNIE LURUS.

The Hunting LeOpard . .
(Cyneelurns jubatus—Sckreb.)

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Vi verridae.
GENUS VIVERRA.
The Large Indian Ci vet.
(Viverra zibetha—-Linn.)

The Malayan Civet
(Viverra tangalunga— Gray.)

GENUS VIVE RRICULA.

The Small Indian Civet
(Viverricula malaccensis—Gmel.)

GENUS GENETTA.

The Common Genet .
(Genetta vulgaris ~(Less.) )

GENUS HEMIGALEA.

Hardwicke’ s Hemigale .
(Hemig-alea hardwickii~(Gra3/.) )

GENUS PARADOXURUS.

The Indian Palm Civet
(Paradoxurus niger—Desm.)
The Malayan Palm Civet
(Paradoxurns hermaphroditus~(Pall.) )
The Himalayan Palm Civet .
(Paradoxurus grayi—Bennett.)
The White-whiskered Palm Civet
(Paradoxurus leucomystax~ Gray.)

GENUS ARCTOGALE.

The Small-toothed Palm Civet
(Arctogale leucotis—(Blg/tk.) )

GENUs ARCTICTIS.

The Bear-Cat or Binturong 1 .
(Arctictis binturong—(Bafilea) )

SUB-FAMILY HERPESTINJE.
GENUs HERPESTES.

The Small Indian Mungoose .
(Herpestes auropunctatus—(Hodgs.) )

The Common Indian Mongoose .
(Herpestes mungo-—(Gmel.) )

The Malayan Mnngoose
(Herpestes brachyurus~Gra1/.)

The Crab eating Mungoose . .
(Herpestes urva-(Hodgs.) )

 

 

 

91.

92.

93.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS CROSSARCHUS.

The Banded Ichenumon .
(Crossarchus fasciatus-Desm.)

Family Hyaenidee.

GENUS HYENA.

The Striped Hyaena
(Hyaena striata—Zimm.)

Family Canidw.

GENUS CANIS.

The Wolf .
(Canis lupus—Linn.)
The Indian Wolf
(Canis pallipes—Sylces.)
The Jackal .
(Canis aureukLinn.)
The Black-backed Jackal .-
(Canis mesomelas-Schreb.)
The Side-striped Jackal
(Canie lateralis— Selater.)

The Dingo . .
(Canis dingo—Blmnenb.)

Germs CYON.

The Indian Wild Dog
(Cyon dukhuuensis— Sykes.)

GENUS VU LPES.

The Indian Fox _
(Vulpes bengalensis~8haw.)

The Common Fox .
(Vulpes alopex—(Linn.) )

Family Mustelidae.

Genus MUSTELA.

The Indian Marten . . . .
(Mustela flavigula—Bodd.)

GENUS PUTORIUS.
The Weasel

(Putorius vulgaris—(Gmel.) )
The Yellow-bellied Weasel.

(Putorius cathia—Hodgs.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.
GENUS GALICTIS.

The Tayra. .
(Galictis barbara—(I/inn. ) )
GENUS MELLIVORA.

The Indian Ratel
(Mellivora indica—Kerr.)

Germs ARCTONY X.

The Hog-Badger . .
(Arctonyx collaris—F. Cue.)

GENUS LUTRA.

The Common Otter .
(Lutra vulgaris—Erxl.)
The Smooth Indian Otter .
(Lutra ellioti—Anderaon.)
The Clawless Otter
(Lutra leptonyx—Horaf.)

Family Procyonidw.
Gmme NYCTEREUTES.

The Racoon Dog .
(Nyctei eutea procyonoides— Gray. )

GENUS NASUA.

The White-nosed Coati
(Nasna union—(Liam) )

The Ring-tailed Coati
(Nasua rah—(Dem) )

GENUS CE RCOLEPTES.

The Kinkajou
(Cercoleptes caudivolvulus—(Pall. ) )

Family Eluridae.'
GENUS ELURUS.

The Panda or Cat-Bear
(Elurus fulgens—F. Olav.)

Family Ursidae.

Genus URSUS.
The Polar Bear . .
(U rsus maritimus—Linn.)
The Brown Bear . .
(Urans arctos——-Linn.)

ow

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

The Grizzly Bear .
(Ursus horribilis— 0rd.)
The Himalayan Bear .
(Ursus torquatus- Wagner.)
The Black Bear
(Ursus americanus—Pall. )
The Malayan Bear
(Ursus malayanus— Rafles.)

GENUS MELURSUS.

The Sloth Bear. .
(Melursus animus—(87mm) )

ORDER INSECTIVORA.

Family Tup‘aiidw.
GENUS TUPAIA.

The Tree Shrew
(Tupaia ellioti— Waterhouse. )

Family Erinaceidae.

GENUS ERINACEUS.

Hardwicke’ s Hedgehog
(Erinaceus collaris— Gray 4' Hardw.)
The South Indian Hedgehog . .

(Erinaceus micropus— Blyflz .)

The Common Hedgehog
(Erinaceus europaeue—Linn.)

GENUS GYMNU RA.

The Smaller Gymnura
(Gymnura. same—(Muller c} Schleg.) )

Family Soricidae.

Genus CRCECIDURA.

The Grey Musk Shrew .
(Croecidura caerulea—(Kerr.) )

O

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

ORDER OHIROPTERA.

Family Pteropodidae.
Genus PTEROPUS.

The Indian Fruit Bat or Flying Fox .
(Pteropus medius—Temm.)

Genus CYNOPTE RUS.

The Lesser Fruit Bat
(Cyuopterus marginatus—(Geqfl‘rJ )

ORDER RODENTIA.

Family Sciuridae.

GENUS SCIURUS.

The Black Hill Squirrel
(Sciurus giganteus—Mc Clelland. )

The J avan Squirrel
(Sciurus bicolor-Sparr.)

The Large Indian Squirrel .
(Sciurus indicus—Erwl.)

The Long-tailed Squirrel
(Sciurus macrourus—Eml.)

The Hoary-bellied Grey Squirrel
(Sciurus lokroides~Hodgs.)

The Common Striped Squirrel
(Sciurus palmarum-Linn.)

. The Orange-bellied Grey Squirrel

(Sciurus blaufordi—Blyth.)
The Rufous-necked Squirrel

(Sciurus prevosti—Deem.)
The Plantain Squirrel

(Seiurus plantani~Ljung.)
The Grey Squirrel

(Sciurus cinereus—Liun.)
The Common Squirrel

_ (Sciurue vulgaris— Linn.)

Genus PTEROMYS.
The Red-bellied Flying Squirrel .

(Pteromys magnificus—Hodgs.)
GENUS SCIUROPTERUS.

The Grey Flying Squirrel .
(Sciuropterus fimbriatus— Gray.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Germs ARCTOMYS.

The Himalayan Marmot .
(Arctomya hodgeoni—Blanf.)

The Quebec Marmot .
(Arctomys menu-(Lima) )

GENUS CYNOMYS.

The Prairie Marmot .
(Cynomis ludovicianus—-—( 0rd.) )

Family Myoxidae.
Gums MYOXUS.

The Common Dormouse
(Myoxus aveflanarius-(Linm) )

Family Muridw.

SUB-FAMILY GERBILLINJE.

Germs GERBILLUS.

The Cuvier’s J erboa Rat

(Gerbillus cuvieri— Waterhouee.)
The Indian J erboa Rat

(Gerbillus indicus— Geofr.)

Genus MUS.

The Common Rat
(Mus rattus—Linn.)
VAR. ALBA.
The Earthy Field Mouse
(Mus terricolordBlyth.)
(Mus (nesokia) kok——- Gray.)
The Rufescent Tree Rat
(Mus rufescens— Gray.)
The Common Indian Mouse
(Mus urbanus~Hodge.)
The Fawn Field Mouse
(Mus cervicolor-Hodgs.)

GENUS GOLUN DA.

145. (Golunda meltada-Elliot)

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Spalacidae.
Germs RHIZOMYS.

The Red-cheeked Bamboo Rat
(Rhizomys erythrogenye—Andr.)

The Chestnut-coloured Bamboo Rat
(Rhizomys badiua—Hodgs.)

Family Octodontidae.

GENUS MYOPOTAMUS.

The Coypu
(Myopotamus coypu—(M6Z.) )

Family Hystricidae.
GENUS HYST RIX
The Short-spined Porcupine
(Hystrix longicaudw-Marsden.)
The Indian Crested Porcupine
(Hystrix leucurue—Sykee.) )

The European Crested Porcupine
(Hyetrix cristata—(I/inn.) )

GENUS ATHERURA.

The Brush-tailed Porcupine
(Atherura fasciculata—(Sbaw.) )

The African Brush-tailed Porcupine
(Atherura africana— Gray.)

Family Chin chillidae.
Genus LAGOSTOMUS.
TheViscache

(Lagostomus trichodactylue-‘Brooku. )
Family Dasyproctidae.
Gms C(ELOGENYS.

The Spotted Cavy .
(Cwlogenys pace—(Linn. ) )

GENUS DASYPROCTA.

The Central American Agouti .
(Daeyprocta isthmica—Alston.)

The Hairy-rumped Agonti . .
(Dasyprocta prymnolopha~ Wagl.)

 

W‘:‘W"k~.§>rtia:m w» Mi.fiu.rd—umwvw-u .M i .

 

TABLE OF ' CONTENTS .

Genus CAVIA.

The Gninea Pig. . .
(Cavia porcellus—(Linn.) )

GENUS HYDROOH(ERUS.

The Capybara
(Hydroehoerus capybara—Eml. )
Family Leporidae.
Germs LEPUS.

The Indian Hare .
(Lepus ruficaudatus- Geqfl’r.)
The Common Rabbit .
(Lepus cuniculus—Linn.)

GENUS CAPROLAGUS.

The Hispid Hare
(Caprolagus hispidus—Blyth. )

ORDER PR OBOSOIDEA.

Family Elephantidaa.
ewes ELEPHAS.

The Indian Elephant . .
(Elephas indicus—F. Cum'er.)

ORDER UNG ULATA.

Family Rhinocerotidw.
GENUS RHINOCEROS.

The Indian Rhinoceros
(Rhinoceros unicornis—Linn.)
The Sondaic Rhinoceros
(Rhinoceros sondaicukDesm.)
The Hairy-eared Rhinoceros
(Rhinoceros lasiotis—Sclater.)
The Sumatran Rhinoceros .
(Rhinoceros sumatrensis~ Cue.)

Family Tapiridae.
GENUS TAPIRUS.

The Malayan Tapir . .
(Tapirus indicus—Desm.)
The Hairy Tapir
(Tapirus roulini—Fischer.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Equiidse.
GENUB EQUUS.
'1

The Wild Ass

(Equus onager—Pall.)
The Domestic Ass

(Equus Minus—Limo.)
Burchell’s Zebra

(Equns Burchelli~—( Gray.) )

Family Bovidae.

SUB-FAMILY BOVINE.
Gums BOS.

The Domestic 01:
(Bos mums—Linn.)
The Zebu
(Bos indicus—Lz'nn.)
The Gyal, or Mithan .
(Bos frontalis—(Lmnbert.) )
The Sondaic Ox, or Banteng
(Bos sondaicus—(MiillJ )
The Gaur . .
(Bos gaurus—Trail.)

Germs BISON.

The American Bison .
(Bison americanus—(Gmel.) )

Gimme PO'EPHAGUS.

The Yak ,
(Poephagns grunniens—(Linn.) )

GENUS BUBA-LUS.

The Cape Bnfialo . . .
(Bubalus caffer—(Spa/rr.) )
The Indian Bufialo
(Bubalus buffelus—(Blum.) )

GENUS ANOA.

The Anoa
(Anoa depressicornis—-(11T. Smith.) )

SUB-FAMILY TRAGELAPHINJE.

Germs OREAS.

The Eland. . . .
(Oreas canna——(H. Smith.) )

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS BOSELAPHUS.
The Nilgai . .
(Boselaphus tragocamelus—Lll.)

SUB-FAMILY ORYGINJE.

GENUS ORYX.

The Beisa Antelope

(Oryx beisa——(Rupp.) )
The Leucoryx .

(Oryx leucoryx-(Pall.) )

SUB-FAMILY ANTILOPINJE.
GENUS GAZELLA.

The Arabian Gazelle .
(Gazelle arabica--(Hempr. et Ehr. ) )
The Indian Gazelle
(Gazella bennetti—(Sykes.) )
Grant’s Gazelle . .
(Gazella granti—Broolce.)

GENUS AN TILOPE.

The Indian Antelope . . . .
(Antilope cervicapra—(Linn.) )

GENUS TETRACEROS.

The Four-horned Antelope
(Tetraceros quadricornis—(Blainv.) )

Germs ALCELAPHUS.

The Bubaline Antelope
(Aleelaphus bubalie—(Pall.) )

SUB-FAMILY CAPRINJE.
Germs CAPRA.

The Domestic Goat

(Capra hircus—Linn.)
The Persian Ibex

(Capra aegagrus~ Gmel.)

Germs OVIS.

The Domestic Sheep . . .
(Ovis arias—Linn.)
The Punjab Wild Sheep
(Ovis cycloceros-Hutton.)
The Burrhal Wild Sheep
(Ovis Nahoor-HodgsJ

 

 

 

'TABLE or CONTENTS.

Family Giraflidw.
Germs GIRAFFA.

The Girafie
(Girafla camelopardal1e~me )

Family Cervidw.

SUB-FAMILY CERVINIE.
GENUS CERVULUS.

The Indian Muntjac .
(Cervulue muntjac—Zz’xmm.)

Reeves’ Muntjac . .
(Cervulus reevesi—Ogilby.)

GENUS CERVUS.

The Wapiti Deer .

(Cervus canadensie—Schreb.)
The Formosan Deer

(Cervus taévanukSwinh.)
The Barasingha Deer

(Cervus duvaueelli— Our.)
The Sambur Deer .

(Cervua aristotelis~ Gav.)
The Equine Deer . .

(Cervus equinus—Cuv.)
The Hog Deer .

(Cervus porcinus—Zimm.)
The Rusa Deer .

(Cervus hippelaphue—C'uv. )
The Molucca Deer .

(Cervus moluccensis-—-Miill.)
The Axis Deer .

(Cervus axis—EMA)

Gamma RANGIFER.

The Reindeer . . .
(Rangifer tarandus—Linn.)

Family Tragulidaa.
GENUS TRAGULUS.

The Indian Chevrotain .
(Tragulus memmina-(Erle )
The Malayan Chevrotain
(Tragulus Napu—F. CW.)
The J avan Chevrotain
(Tragulus javanicus—Pall.)
Stanleyan Chevrotain
(Tragulus stanleyanus— Gray. )

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Camelidmi.

GENUS AUCHENIA.

The Guanaco
(Auchenia huanacus—Molz'na.)

GENUS CAMELUS.

The Camel.
(Camelus dromedarius—Limz. )

The Bactrian Camel .
(Camelus bactrianus-Linn.) .

Family Hippopotamidw.
owns HIPPOPOTAMUS.

The Hippopotamus .
(Hippopotamus amphibius-Lz'nn. )

Family Suidw.

Genus SUS.

The Wild Pig
(Sue cristatus— Wagner.)

The Andaman Pig
(Sus andamanensis—Blgtk.)

The Pigmy Hog .
(Sue salvania— Gamma.)

GENUS BABIRUSA.

The Babirusa .
(Babirusa alfurus—Less.)

GEMS DICOTYLES.

223. The White-lipped Peecary .
(Dicotyles labiatus— 01w.)

ORDER EDEN TA TA.

Family Bradypodidm.

GENUS CHOL(EPUS.

224. The Two-teed sloth
(Choloepus didactylus—(Lz’nn.) )

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS;

Family Mvrmecophagidae.
Gums MYRMECOPHAGA.

The Great Ant-eater
(Myrmecophaga jubata—I/mn.)

Family Dasypodidw.

Gnnus DASYPU S.

The Sixobanded Armadillo .
(Dasypus sexcinctua—Linn.)

Family Manidae.

GENUS MANIS.

The Himalayan Ant-eater
(Manis aurita—Hodgs.)
The Indian Ant- eater.
(Mania pentadactyla—Lz'nn.)
The Malayan Ant- eater
(Mania javanicar—Bbytk.)

ORDER MARSUPIALIA.

Family Didelphyidae.
GENUS DIDELPHYS.

The Virginian Opossum
(Didelphys v1rg1n1ana—Shaw )

Family Dasyuridaa.

GENUS DASYURUS.

Geoffroy’ s Dasyure
(Dasyurus geoifroyi— Gould.)

GENUS SARCOPHILUS.

The Tasmanian Devil
(Sarcophilus ursinus-F. Ouv.)

Family Phascolomyidae.

GENUS PHASCOLOMYS.

The Common Wombat
(Phascolomys wombat—Per. et Less.)
The Hairy- nosed Wombat .
(Phascolomys latifrons-— Owen.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.‘

Family Phalangistidae.

GENUS PHALANGISTA.

The Vulpine Phalanger .
(Phalangista vulpina~(Skaw. ) )

Family Macropodidae.
GENUS BETTONGIA.

Gaimard’s Rat Kangaroo
(Bettongia gaimardi~ Gray.) )

GENUS PETROGA LE.

The Yellow-footed Rock Kangaroo
(Petrogale xanthopus—Gmy.)

GENUS MACROPUS.

The Great Kangaroo.
(Macropus giganteus—Linn. )
The Red Kangaroo .
(Macropus rnfus—(Desm.) )
Bennett’s Wallaby
(M acropus bennetti-e—e Waterhouse. )
The Black Wallaby
(Macropus ualabatue-(Less) )

PART II.
CLASS AVES .

ORDER PA SSERES.

Family Corvidae.
SUB-FAMILY CORVINJE.

GENES CORVUS.

1. The Indian House Crow

(Corvus splendens— Vieill.)

Genus PICA.

2. The Magpie

(Pica rustica-(Scop. ) )

3. The Black- ramped Magpie .

(Pica bottanensis—Deless.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Germs UROCISSA.

The Red-billed Blue Magpie
(Uroeissa occipitalis—(Blytk.) )

The Yellow-billed Blue Magpie
(Urocissa flavirostris~(Blyth.) )

GENUS CISSA.

The Green Magpie . .
(Cissa chinensis—( Rodd.) )

GENUS DEN DROCITTA.

The Indian Tree-Pie
(Dendrocitta rufa—(ScopJ )

The Himalayan Tree-Pie .
(Dendrocittahimalayensis~(Blyth. ) )

The Black- browed Tree- Pie
(Dendrocitta frontalis—McClell.)

Genus GARRULUS.

The Black-throated Jay . .
(Garrulus lanoeolatus~—- Vig.)

GENUS CYANOCORAX.

The Blue-bearded Jay . . .
(Cyanocorax cyanopogon—Max.)

GENUS GRACULUS.

The Red-billed Chough
(Graculus eremita—(Lz’nn.) )

GENUS PYRRHOCORAX.
The Yellow-billed or Alpine Chough
(Pyrrhocorax alpinus— Weill.)

Family Crateropodidae.

GENUS DRYONASTES.

The Black-throated Laughing Thrush
(Dryonastes chinensis~(Scop.) )

GENUS GARRULAX.

The Himalayan White-crested Laughing Thrush
(Garrulax 1eucolophua~ (Haw-duo) )

The Black-gorgetted Laughing Thrush
(Garrulax pectoralis—(Gould.) )

The White-throated Laughing Thrush
(Garrulax albigularis—( Gould.) )

 

TA BLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS IANTHOCINCLA.

The White-spotted Laughing Thrush
(Ianthocincla ocellata—( my.) )

GENUS GRAMMATOPTILA.
The Striated Laughing Thrush . . .
(Grammatoptila striata——( Vig.) )
GENUS CRATEROPUS.

The Jungle Babbler . . . . .
(Crateropus cameras—(Liam) )

SUB-FAMILY SIBIINJE.

GENUS LIOPTILA.

The Black-headed Sibia .
(Lioptila capistrata~( Vig.) )

GENUS ZOSTEROPS.

Swinhoe’s White-eye . . . g .
(Zostemps simplex—Swink.)

SUB-FAMILY LIO'I‘RICHINZE.

GENUS LIOTHRIX.

The Red—billed Hill Tit . . .

(Liothrix lutea—(Scop.) )

GENUS CHLOROPSIS.

The Gold-fronted Chloropsis . . .

(Chloropsis aurifrons—(Temm.) )
J erdon’s Chloropsis . . .

(Chloropsis jerdoni—(Blyth.) )

Genus MESIA.

The Silver-eared Mesia, or Silver-cared Hill Tit .
(Mesia argentauris—Eodgs.)

GENUS PSAROGLOSSA.

The Spotted Wing, or the Spotted Wing Stare .
(Psaroglossa spiloptera—( Vig.) )

SUB-FAMILY BRACHYPODINIE.

GENUS HYPSIPETES.

The Himalayan Black Bulbul .
(Hypsipetes psaroides—(ViyJ )

 

 

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS MOLPASTES.

The Bengal Red-vented Bulbul
(Molpastes bengalensis—(Blyth.) )
The White-cheeked Bulbul .
(Molpastes leucogenys——-(Gray.) )
The White-eared Bulbul
(Molpastes leucotis—(Gould.) )

GENUS OTOCOMPSA.

The Bengal Red-whiskered Bulbul
(Otocompsa emeria—(I/inn.) )

The Black-crested Yellow Bulbul
(Otocompsa fluviventris-(Tz‘ck.) )

GENUS PYCNONOTUS.
The Yellow-vented Bulbul
(Pycnonotus analis—(Horsf) )

Family Dicruridae.
GENUS DICRURUS.

The Black Drongo or King-Crow
(Dicrurus ater—(Hermann.) )

GENUS CHIBIA.

The Hair-crested Drongo
(Chibia hottentotta—(Linn.) )

GENUS DISSEMURUS.

The Large-tailed Drongo
' (Dissemurus paradiseus-(Linn.) )

Family Lanidae.

GENUS LANIUS.

The Grey-backed Shrike .
(Lanius tephronotus—(Vig.) )

Family Oriolida.
GENUS ORIOLUS.

The Black-naped Oriole
(Oriolns indicus—Jerdon.)
The Andaman Black-naped Oriole
(Oriolus andamanensis- Tgtl.) ‘
The Indian Black-headed Oriole .
(Oriolus melanocephalus—(Linn.) )
The Maroon Oriole .
(Oriolus traillii—~( Viy.) )

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Eulabetidae.
GENUS EULABES.

The Southern Grackle, or the Southern Hill M yna

(Eulabes religiosa~(L1‘nn.) )
The Indian Grackle, or the Nepal Hill Myna
(Eulabes intermedia—(A. Hay.) )

GENUS CALORNIS.

The Glossy Calornis . . .
(Calornis chalybeius— (Horyl) )

Family Sturnidae.

GENUS PASTOR.

The Rose-coloured Starling . . .
(Pastor roseus - (Ilium) )

GENUS STURNUS.

The Common Indian Starling
(Sturnus menzbieri—(Slzarpe.) )

GENUS STURN IA.

The Grey-headed Myna

(Sturnia malabarica~(Gmel.) )
The Andaman Myna

(Sturnia andamanensis—(Tytl. ) )

GENUS TEMENUCHUS.

The Black-headed Myna , .
(Temenuchus pagodarnm~( Gmel.) )
GENUS GRACU LIPICA.
The Black-necked Myna
(GI-aculipica nigricollis~(Payk.) )

GENUS ACRIDOTHERES.

The Common Myna . . .
(Acridotheres tristis—-—(Linn. ) )

The Bank Myna . . . .
(Acridotheres ginginianus—(Lath.) )

GENUS ETHIOPSAR.

The Jungle Myna. . . .
(Ethiopsar fuscus-(WaglJ )

'l'he Black-crested Myna
(Ethiopsar cristatellus—w(Linn.) )

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENT&

Genus STURNOPASTOR.
56. The Pied Myna . .
(Stumopastor contra—(Linn) )
Family Turdidw.
SUB-FAMILY SAXICOLINJE.

GENUs PRATINCOLA.

57. The Common Pied Bush Chat
(Pratincola caprata-—(Linn.) )

SUB-FAMILY RUTICILLINJE.

GENUS COPSYCHUS.

58. The Magpie Robin , . .
(Copsychus saularis—-—(Linn.) )

GENUS CITTOCINCLA.

59. The Shame. . . .
(Cittocincla macroura - ( Gmel.) )

SUB-FAMILY TURDINJE.

Germs MERULA.

60. The Grey-winged Ouzel
(Merula boulboul——-(Lath.) )

61. Gould’s Ouzel . .
(Merula gouldi~ Verr.)

GENUS GEOCICHLA.

62. The Orange-headed Ground Thrush
(Geocichla citrina-—~(Lath.) )

Family Ploccidae.

GENUS PLOCEUS.

63. The Common Weaver Bird .
(Ploceus baya—Blyth.)

64. The Blackthroated Weaver Bird
(Ploceus bengalensis——(Linn.) )

GENUS EUPLECTES.

65. The Crimson-crowned Weaver Bird
(Euplectea fiammiceps-Swmk.)

 

 

 

TA BL E OF CONTENTS.

SUB-FAMILY VIDUINJE.
GENUS VIDUA.

The Paradise Whydah Bird
(Vidua paradisea—(Lz’nnJ )

GENUS MUNIA.

The Black-headed Munia . . .
(Munia malacca—(Linn.) )

The Chestnut-bellied Mania
(Mania atricapilla—( Vieill.) )

GENUS UROLONCHA.

The White-backed Munia . . . .
(Uroloncha striata—(In'nnq )

The Spotted Munia . .
(Uroloncha punctulata~(Linn.) )

GENUS SPOREGINTHUS.

The Indian Red Munia . . . .
(Sporeeginthus amandava—(Linn.) )

GENUS PADDA.

The Java Sparrow
(Padda oryzivora—(Linn. ) )

Family Fringillidae.

GENUS CROCCOTHRAUSTE S.

The Black-tailed Grosbeak . . . .
(Croccothraustes melannmk—(Sw'inh) )

GENUS HEDYMELES.

The Rose-breasted Grosbeak . . .
(Hedymeles ludovicianus—(Dinn.) )

GENUS CARDINALIS.

The Cardinal Grosbeak . . .
(Cardinalis virginianus—(Briss.) )

SUB-FAMILY FRINGILLINE.

GENUS CARPODACU S.

The Common Rose Finch . .
(Carpodacus erythr1nus—(Pall.) )

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.
GENUS PASSER.

The House Sparrow .
(Passer domesticus—(Linm) )

GENUS FRINGILLA.
The Chaflinch . . .
(Fringilla caelebswLinn.)
GENUS LIGURINUS,

The Greenfinch . . . .
(Ligurinus chloris—-—(Linn.) )

GENUS CARDUELIS.
The Goldfinch
(Cardnelis elegans-Steph.)
GENUS SERINU S.
The Canary Finch . . . .
(Serinus canarins—-—(Linn.) )
GENUS LINOTA.

The Linnet . . .
(Linota cannabina—(Linn. ) )
The Mealy Redpoll
(Linota Knuth—(Lima) )

SUB-FAMILY EMBERIZINJE.

GENUS EMBERIZA.

The Yellow Bunting . . . .
(Emberiza citrinella-v-I/inn.)

Family Alaudidae.

anus ALAUDA.

The Sky Lark . . . .
(Alauda arvensis—(I/inn. ) )

The Wood Lark . . .
(Alauda arborea-(I/inn.) )

GENUS MIRAFRA.

87. The Bengal Bush Lark

(Mirafra assamica—Mc C'lell.)

88. The Singing Bush Lark .

(Mirafra cantillans-Jardon.)

 

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TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS MERULA.

The Song Thrush

(Merula musica——-Linn.)
The Black Bird

(Mcrula merula—(Linn.) )

Family Pittidae.

GENUS PITTA.

The Indian Pitta, or Yellow~breasted Ground Thrush .

(Pitta brachyura «- (Liam) )
The Green-breasted Pitta
(Pitta cucullata—Harttaub.)

ORDER SOANSORES.
Family Picidae.

GENUS BRACHYPTERN US.

The Gold—backed Woodpecker .
(Brachypternus aurantius—(Linn.) )

SUB-FAMILY IYNGINJE.

Germs IYN X.

The Wryneck . . .
(lynx torquiHa——(Linn.) )

Family Capitonidae.
GENUS MEGALZEMA.
The Great Indian Barbet . . . .
(Megalaema marshallorum—Swz'nh.)
GENUS CYANOPS.

The Blue-faced Barbet
(Cyanops asiatica—(Lath.) )

The Lineated Barbet
(Cyanops lineata—( Weill.) )

GENUS XANTHOLZE MA.

The Crimson-breasted Barbet .
(Xantholaema haen1acephala—— (Mull) )

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

ORDER UP UPE.

Family Upupidae.
GENUSUPUPA.

The European Hoopoe .
(U pupa epopk—Linn.)

ORDER 00L UMB/E.

Family Columbidae.
GENUS COLUMBA.

The Indian Blue-rock Pigeon . .
(Columba intermedia—Striclcl.)

The White-bellied Pigeon
(Columba leuconota~ Vig.)

GENUS PALUMBUS.

The Darjeeling Wood Pigeon
(Palmnbus pulchricollis—Hodgs.)

GENUs TU RTUR.

The Spotted Dove . . . . .
(antur sumtensis—(Gmel.) )
The Red Turtle Dove . .
(Turtur humilis—(Temm.) )
The Common Ring Dove
(antur risorius~(Linn.) )
The Malay Spotted Dove .
(Turtur tigrinus—(Teqan )
The Chinese Turtle Dove
(Turtur chinensis—(Scop.) )
The Rufous Turtle Dove .
(Turtur meow—(Sykes) )

GENUS MAC ROPYGIA.

The Bar-tailed Cuckoo Dove . .
(Macropygia leptogrammica~(Tem/m.) )

GENUS OCYPHAPS.

The Crested Pigeon . . . .
(Ocyphaps lophotes—(Temm.) )

GENUS CHALCOPHAPS.

The Emerald Dove . . . . .
(Chalcophaps indica-(Limz.))

 

xxviii

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS PHAPS.

The Bronze-winged Pigeon
(Phaps chalcoptera~(Latk.) )
GENUs LEUCOSARCIA.
The VVonga Wonga Pigeon . . . .
(Leucosarcia picta-v-(Latk.) )
GENUS PHLOGZENAS.
The Blood-breasted Pigeon . . .
(Phlogeenas cruentata—(Latk.) )
GENUS GEOPELIA.
The Peaceful Dove . . . .
(Geopelia tranquilla— Gould.)

GENUS CALEN AS.

. The Haclrled Ground Pigeon

(Caleenas nicobarica—(Linn.) )

GENUS GOU RA.

The Common Crowned Pigeon
(Goura emanate—(Linn) )

The Victoria Crowned Pigeon
(Goura Victoria—Fraser.)

Family Carpophagidae.
GENUS CARPOPHAGA.

The Imperial Green Pigeon .
(Carpophaga dime—(Linn) )

The Pied Imperial Pigeon . .
(Carpophaga bicolor—-(Scop.) )

The Bronzed Imperial Pigeon
(Carpophaga perspicillata—Temm.)

GENUS P’I‘ILOPUS.
The Superb Fruit Pigeon . .
(Ptilopus superbus—Temm.)
GENUS TRERON.

The Thick-billed Green Pigeon
(Treron nepalensis—(Hodgs.) )

GENUS CROCOPUS. ,

The Bengal Green Pigeon . . .
(Crocopus phmnicoptefue—(Lath) )
The Southern Green Pigeon .
(Crocopus chlorigaster—(Blgth.) )

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Germs OSMOTRERON.

126. The Orange-breasted Green Pigeon
(Osmotreron bicincta—(Jerdon.) )
GENUS SPHENOCERCUS.

127. The Kokla Green Pigeon . . .
(Sphenocercus sphenurus—( Vig.) )

ORDER OUUULI.

Family Cuculidae.

GENUS CUCULUS.

The Indian Cuckoo . .
(Cuculus microphe'rus——Gould.)

GENUS HIEROCOCCYX.
The Common Hawk Cuckoo . .
(Hieroeoccyx varius———( Vahl.) )
Genus COCCYSTES.

The Red-winged Crested Cuckoo .
(Coccystea coromandus— (Lima) )

GENUS EUDYNAMIS.

The Indian Coel . . . .
(Eudynamis honorata—(Linn.) )

SUB-FAMILY CENTROI’ODINE.

Grams CENTROCOCCYX.

The Indian Coucal . . .
(Centrococcyx rufipennis—(Ill.) )

GENUS CENTROPUS.

The Lesser Indian Coucal
(Centropus viridis—(Scop.) )

ORDER HALO'YONES.
Family Alcedinidae.

GENUS ALCEDO.

134. The Little Indian Kingfisher . .
(Alcedo bengalensis~Gmel.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENT&

GENUS PELARGOPSIS.

135. The Indian Stork-billed Kingfisher
(Pelargopsis gurial--—-(Pears.) )

GENUS HALCYON.

136. The White-breasted Kingfisher .
(Halcyon smyrnensis— (Lima) )

GENUS DACELO.

137. The Laughing Kingfisher .
(Dacelo gigantea—(Lath.) )

ORDER CORACIflL

Family Coraciidae.

GENUS CORACIAS.
138. The Indian Roller
(Coracias indica—(Linn.) )
139. The Burmese Roller
(Coracias affinis—McCZell.)

ORDER BUOEROTE&

Family Bucerotidw.

GENUS BUCE ROS.

The Rhinoceros Hornbill
(Buceros rhinoceros—Linn.)
The Javan Rhinoceros Hornbill
(Buceros~si1vestris—— Vieill.)

GENUS DICHOC EROS.

The Great Pied Hornbill, or the Homrai
(Dichoceros bicornia——-(Lmn.) )

GENUS ANTHRACOCEROS.

Temminck’s Pied Hornbill
(Anthracoceros convexus—( Temm.) )
The Small Pied Hornbill
(Anthracoceros albirostris~(Ska-w.))
The White-billed Hornbill . . .
(Anthracoceros malayanus—(Raflles) )

GENUB OCYCEROS.
The Grey Hornbill . . .
(Ocyceros birostris—(Sfiaw.) )

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS ACEROS.

147. The Rufous-necked Hornbill
(Aceros nepalensis—(Hodgs.) )

GENUS RHYTIDOCEROS.

148. The Wreathed Hornbill . . .
(Rhytidoceros undulatus—(Skaw.) )

GENUS CRANORRHINUS.

149. The Wrinkled-bill Hornbill . .
(Cranorrhinus corrugatus~(Temm.) )

SUB-0RDER.ZYGODACTYL&L

Family Ramphastidae.

GENUS RAMPHASTOS.

150. The Ariel Toucan . . . . .
(Ramphastos ariel——- Vig.)

151. The Sulphur-breasted Toucan .
(Ramphastos carinatns—Swaimon.)

ORDER PSITTA 01.

Family Cacatuinae.

GBNUS CACATUA.

The Rose-crested Cockatoo .
(Cacatua moluccensis——(Gmel.) )

The Greater Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
(Cacatua galerita—(Lath.) )

The Lesser Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
(Cacatua snlphnrea—( Gmel.) )

The Greater White-crested Cockatoo .
(Cacatua cristata—-—( Wagler.) )

The Blood-stained Cockatoo .
(Cacatua sanguinea—Gould.)

The Roseate Cockatoo .
(Cacatua roseicapilla——- Vieill.)

The Citron-crested Cockatoo .
(Cacatua citrino-cristatawFraser.)

Leadbeater’s Cockatoo . .
(Cacatua leadbeateri~( Vig.) )

The Bare-eyed Cockatoo
(Cacatua gymnopis-Sclater.)

 

TABLE OF CONTENT&
GENUS LICMETIS.

The Long-billed Cockatoo
(Licmetis tenuirostris— Wagler.)

GENUS MICROGLOSSA.

The Great Black Cockatoo . .- . .
(Microglossa aterrima—-( Gmel.) )

SUB-FAMILY CALOPSITTINJE.

G‘ENUS CALOPSITTA.

The Crested Ground Parrakeet . . .
(Calopsitta N ovee-hollandae—( Gmel .) )

Family Palaeornithidae.
GENUS PALEORNIS.

Alexandrine, or The Rose-band Parrakeet
(Palaeornis eupatrius—(Linn.) )

The Rose-ringed Parrakeet
(Paleeornis torquatus—(Bodd.) )

The Rose-headed Parrakeet .

‘ (Palaeornis cyanocephalus—~(Linn.) )

. The Slaty-headed Parrakeet

(Palaeornis schisticeps—Hodgs.)

. The Blue-Winged Parrakeet .

’ (Paleeornis columboides— Vig.)

The Red-breasted Parrakeet . . . .
(Palaeornis fasciatus—(P. L. S. Mailer.) )

The Malayan Parrakeet . . .
(Palaeornis longicauda—(Bodd.) )

The Red-checked Parrakeet . .
(Palaeornis erythrogenys~(Blyth.) )

GENUS ECLECTUS.

The Red-sided Eclectus .
(Eclectus pectoralis~(Mz‘iller.) )

GENUS APROSMICTUS.

The Red-winged Parrakeet .
(Aprosmictus erythropberus—(Latk.) )

The King Parrakeet . . . .
(Aprosmictus scapulatus—(Kuhl.) )

GENUS TANYGNATHUS.

The Large-billed Parrakeet . . . .
(Tanygnathus megalorhynchus~(Bodd.) )

The Sumatran Large-billed Parrakeet
(Tanygnathus sumatrensis—(Rqflies) )

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS LORICULUS.

The Indian Lorikeet . . .
(Loriculus vernalis—(Sparr.) )

The Ceylonese Hanging Parrakeet
(Loriculus aaiaticus— (Lath) )

The Blue-crowned Hanging Parrakeet

(Loriculua galgulua—(I/inn.) )

SUB-FAMILY EUPHEMINJE.

Germs EUPHEMA.
The Torquoisine Grass Parrakeet .
(Euphema pulchella—(Shaw) )
Genus MELOPSITTACUS.

The Undulated Grass Parrakeet .
(Melopsittacua undulatus— (Sham) )

SUB-FAMILY AGAPORNITIHNE.

GENUS AGAPORN IS.

The Rose-faced Love-bird . . .
(Agapornis roseicollis-( Vieill.) )

The Grey-headed Love-bird .
(Agapornis cana—(Gmel.) )

SUB-FAMILY LonnNza.

Gums LORIUS.

The Purple-capped Lory
(Lorine domicella—(Lima.) )

The Black-capped Lory .
(Lorius Eli-(Lima) )

The Chattering Lory . .
(Lorius gamma—(Liam) )

The Red Lory . . .
(Lorine rubra— (Gmel.) )

Germs EOS.

The Blue-streaked Lory . .
(E08 reticulata——(Mull. et Schl.) )
The Blue-breasted Lory . .
(E05 indica-(Gmel.) )
The Small Purple-capped Lory .
(Eos guebiensis— (Soap) )

 

‘191.’

192.

193.

194.

204.

205.

206.

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS;

GENUS TRICHOGLOSSUS.

The Ornamental Lory .
(Trichogloseus ornatus—(La’nn.) )
The Blue Mountain, or Swainson’s Lory
(Trichogloesus novee- hollandee—(G‘de )
The Scaly- breasted Lory .
(Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus—Kuhl. )
The Red-collared Lory.
(Trichoglossus rubritorquatus— (Vig. et Hare-f.) )

Family Psittacidae.
SUB-FAMILY PLATYCERCINE.
GENUS PLATYCERCUS.

Pennant’s Broadtail
(Platycercus pennanti—(Latb. ) )

Barraband’s Broadtail . . .
(Platycercus barrabandi—(Swaz'u.) )

The Rose-hill Broadtail
(Platycercus exemius—(Sfiaw.) )

The Yellow-rumped Broadtail .
(Platycercus fiaveolus—(Gould.) )

The Yellow- collared Broadtail . . .
(Platycercns sem1torquatus-( Quay et Gaim.) )1

GENUS CYANO RA MPHUS.

The New Zealand Parrakeet . . .
(Cyanoramphus novae-zealandee—(G'mel.) )

SUB-FAMILY PSITTACINJE.
GENUS CORACOPSIS.
The Greater Vasa Parrot
(Coracopsis Vase—(Linn) )

The Lesser Vasa Parrot
(Coracopsis nigra-—(Limz.) )

GENUS PSITTACUS.

The Grey Parrot .
(Psittacus erythacus—«Lz‘nnJ

SUB-FAMILY Ammo.

Genus ARA.
The Blue and Yellow Macaw
(Ara ararauna~(Linn.),)
The Red and Yellow Macaw .
(Ara chloroptera—Gray.)
Illiger’s Macaw . . .
(Ara maracana—-—( Weill.) )

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS CONURUS.

The Yellow-headed Conure .
(Conurus jendaya—( Gmel.) )

GENUS CHRYSOTIS.
The Yellow-cheeked Amazon .
(Chrysotis autumnalis—(I/inn.) )
The Red-throated Amazon . .
(Chrysotis collaria~(L1'nn. ) )
The Yellow-fronted Amazon.
(Chrysotis ochryocephala—( G’mel. ) )

ORDER STRIG ES.

Family Strigidee.

GENUS STRIX.

The Indian Barn Owl .
(Strix javanica—Gmel.)

The Grass Owl .
(Strix candida—kaell.)

Gums KETUPA.

The Brown Fish Owl . . . .
(Ketupa ceylonensis- (Gmel.) )

The Javan Fish Owl .
(Ketupa javanensis—(Less.) )

Genus BUBO.
The Rock-horned Owl . .
(Bubo bengalensie—(Frank.) )
The Forest Eagle Owl .
(Bubo nepalensis——Hadya)

GENUS SCOPS.

The Indian Scep’s Owl . . . .
(Scope pennatue—Hodgs.)

a

GENUS CARINE.

The Spotted Owlet . . .
(Carine brama—Temm.)

Gnnue SYRNIUM.

The Brown Wood Owl . . .
(Syrnium newarense~HodgaJ

 

.TABLE ' OF CONTENTS.

ORDER A OOIPITRES.
Family Falconidae.
GENES CIRCUS.

The Marsh Harrier . .
(Circus aeruginosus—(Linn.) )

GENUS ASTUR.

The Shikra . . . .
(Astur hadiue-(GmelJ )

Genus AQUILA.
The Long-legged Eagle
(Aquila hastata~(Less.) )
GENUS SPIZETUS.

The Crested Hawk Eagle . .
(Spizaetus cirrhatus-—(Gmel.) )

The Japanese Hawk Eagle .
(Spizaetus orientalis~(Temm) )

GENUS LAPHOETUS.
The Black-crested Eagle . . . .
(Laphoaetus occipitalis—(Daud.) )
GENUS SPILORNIS.

The Crested Serpent Eagle .
(Spilornis cheela—(Lath.) )

GENU‘S HELOTARSUS.

The Bateleur Eagle . . . .
(Helotarsus ecaudatus-(Daud.) )

Genus HALIETUS.

The White-breasted Sea Eagle . . .
(Haliaetus leucogaster—( Gmel.) )

Pallas’s Sea-Eagle . . .
(Haliaetus leucoryphus~(Pall,) )

Genus HALIASTER.
The Brahminy Kite . . . .
(Haliaster indus—(Bodd.) )

GENUS MILVUS.
The House Kite . .
(Milvus govinda~SghesJ

 

 

232.

233.

234:.

235.

236.

237.

TABLE, or CONTENTS.‘ xxxvii:

GENUS ELANUS.
PAGE.

The Black-winged Kite . . . . .. . 283
(Elanus caeruleus—(Deafi) )

SUB-FAMILY FALCONINJE.

Genus FALCO.

The Peregrine Falcon .
(Falco peregrinus-( Tumt.) )
The Shahin Falcon . . .
(Falco peregrinator—(Sundev.) )
The Luggar Falcon . . .
(Falco jogger—J. E. Gray.)
The Sacer, or Cherug Falcon
(Falco sacer—Gmel.)
The Indian Hobby
(Falco severus—Horqf.)

Germs TINNUNCULUS.

The Kestril . . . . . .
(Tinnunculus alaudarinus—(Lz’nn.) )

The Red-footed Falcon . .
(Tinnunculus vespertinus—(LinnJ )

SUB-FAMILY POLYBORINE.

Germs POLYBORUS.

The Brazilian Caracara . .
(Polyborus braziliensisf—(Gmelq )

SUB-FAMILY VULTURINJE.

Genus GYPS.
The Long-billed Vulture
(Gyps indicus—(Scop.) )
The Indian White-backed Vulture
(Gyps bengalensis—(Gmel.) )

Genus NEOPH RON.

The White Scavenger Vulture
(Neophron ginginianuHLatk.) )

ORDER PLATALEzE.

Family Plataleidae.

GENUS PLATALEA.

The Spoonbill .
(Platelea leucorodiamLz‘nn.)

 

 

Xxxviii _ TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Tantalidae.
GENUS TANTALUS.

245. The Pelican Ibis .
(Tantalus leucocephalus-Forst. )

Family Anastomatidae.

GENUS ANASTOMUS.

The Shell Ibis . . .
(Anastomus oscitans —-—(Bodd. ) )

Family Ibididae.

GENUS IBIS.

247. The Black-headed Ibis . .
(Ibis melanocephalus—Linn.)

GENUS INOCOTIS.

The Black Ibis .
(Inocotis papillosus—(Temm. ) )

O O

GENUS PLEGADIS.
The Glossy Ibis . . . .
(Plegadis falciuellus—(Linn.) )

GENUS EUDOCIMUS.
The Scarlet Ibis . .
(Eudocimus ruber—Linn. )

ORDER ODONTOGLOSSE.

Family Phoenicoptirida.
GnNUs PHENICOPTERUS.

251. The Flamingo . . . . .
(Phwnicopterus antiquorum-Temm.)

ORDER HERODIONES.

Family Ardeidae.

Genus ARDEA.

252. The Purple Heron
(Ardea purpurea—Le‘nu.)
253. The Common Heron
(Ardea cinema—Linn.)

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS HERODIAS.

The Large White Egret
(Herodias alba—(Linn.) )

The Lesser Egret .
(Herodias intermedia~ Van Haas)

GENUS BUBULCUS.
The Cattle Egret. .
(Bubulcus coromaudus~ (Rodd. ) )
GENUS ARDEOLA.
The Pond Heron .
(Ardeola gray1—( Sykes) )
GENUs ARDEIRALLA.

The Blue Bittern
(Ardeiralla flavicollis—(Latk. ) )

Germs ARDETTA.

The Chestnut Bittern .
(Ardetta cinnamomea~(Gmel. ) )
The Little Yellow Bittern
(Ardetta sinensis—( Gmel.) )

GENUS NYCTIARDEA.

The Night Heron
(N yct1ardea nycticorax-(Linn. ) )

Family Ciconiidae.
Gums LEPTOPTILUS.

The Adjutant .

(Leptoptilus ”gala-(Lam) )
The Lesser Adjutant .

(Leptoptilus javanicus—(Harqf) )

GENUS XENORHYNCHUS.

The Black-necked Stork

(Xenorhynchus asiaticus-—- (Lath) )

GENUS DISSURA.

The White-necked Stork . .
(Dissura episcopus~(Bodd.) )

GENUS CICON 1A.

The White Stork . .
(Ciconia alba———(Linn.) )

 

-:
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3

“mm—T . i we»...

TABLE OF CONTENTS;

ORDER STEGANOPODES.

Family Phalacrocoracidw.

- smug PHALACROCCRAX.

The Large Cormorant . .
(Phalacrocorax cube—(Lima) )
The Little Cormorant . . .

(Phalacrocorax pygmaeus—(Pall.) )

Genus PLOTU S.

The Indian Snake-bird
(Plotus melanogaster— Gmel.)

Family Pelecanidw.

GENUS PELICAN US.

The Spotted-billed Pelican
(Pelecanus manillensis-(Gmel.) )
The Lesser White Pelican . .
(Pelecanus javanicus—(Horqf) )
The Mitred Pelican
(Pelecanus mitratus—Lickt.)

ORDER ANSERES.
Family Anatidae.

SUB-FAMILY ANSERINJE.

Genus ANSER.‘

The Grey Lag Goose . .
(Anser cinereus—Meyer.)

The Barred-headed Goose
(Anser indicus—(Lath.) )

The Chinese Goose .
(Anser cygnoides~(1}inn.) )

GENUS ANSERANAS.
The Black and White Goose
(Anseranas melanoleuca Less.)

draws NETTAPUS.
The Cotton Teal . .
(Nettapus coromsndelianus—Gmsl.)

TABLE ‘OF CONTENTS.
eases BERNICLA.

The Canada Goose .
(Bernicla canadensis—(Linm) )
The Upland Goose . . .

(Bernicla dispar-wPh. el. Landb.

SUB-FAMILY CYGNINJE.

GENUS CYGNUS.
The Black Swan .
(Cygnus stratusmLath.)
The Mute Swan .
(Cygnus olor—(GmeL) )
The Black-necked' Swan
(Cygnus nigricollis—(GmeL) )

SUB-FAMILY ANATINJE.

GENUS SARCI DIORNIS.

The Nukhta, or Comb Duck . . . .
(Sarcidiornis melanonota—(Forst.) )

GENUS DENDROCYGN A.

The Larger Whistling Teal . . .
(Dendrocygna fulva—( Gmel.) )

The Lesser Whistling Teal
(Dendrocygna javanica—(Eorst )

The Red-billed Tree Duck
(Dendrocygna autumnalis—(Linn.) )

The White-faced Tree Duck
(Dendrocygna viduata-(Limz) )

GENUS TADORNA.

The Brahminy Duck
(Tadorna casarca-(Linn.) )

The Common Sheldrake .
(Tadorna. vulpenser—(Fleming.) )

Gnsus ANAS.

290. The Wild Duck . . . .
(Anas bosons—Linn.)

291. The Australian Wild Duck
(Anas superciliosanGmel.)

292; The Spotted-billed Duck
(Anus poecilorhynchawPenn.)

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

GENUS RHODONESSA.

293. The Pink- headed Duck
(Rhodonessa car yophyllacea—(Latk.) )

GENUS QUERQUEDULA.

294. The Common Teal .
(Querquedula crecca——(Lz’nn.) )

295. The Garganey, or the Blue~winged Teal
(Querquedula circia--(Linn.) )

GENUS DAFILA.

296. The Pin-tailed Duck .
(Dafila acuta-—(Lz’mz.) )

GENUS ME RECA.

297. The Widgeon
(Mereca penelope—(Linn.) )

GENUS CHAULELASMUS.

298. The Gadwell . . .
(Chaulelasmus streperus—-—(I/£nn.) )

GENUS SPATULA.
299. The Shoveller .
(Spatula clypeata-—(I/inn.) )‘
GENUS AEX.

300. The Summer Duck '
(ZEx sponsa—-(Linn.) )

301. The Mandarin Duck .
(Ex galericulata—-(Linn.))

GENUS FULIGULA.

302. The Crested Duck . .
(Fuligula cristatae—Ray.)

303. The White eyed Pochard
(Fuligula nyroca-~ ( Gu‘ld.) )

GENus BRAN TA.

304. The Red-crested Duck .
(Branta rufina-(Pall.) )

GENUS AYTHYA.

305. The Red-headed Pochard
(Aythya ferina—(Lz'nn.) )

GENUS SOMATERIA
306. The Eider Duck . . . .
(Somateria mollissima-(Lz'1m,) )

 

 

TABLE 'OF CONTENTS.

ORDER GA VIBE.
Family Laridae.
SUB-FAMILY LARINJE

GENUS Laws.

307. The Brown-headed Gull
(Larus brunneicephalus~(Jerd.) )

GBNUS KROIKOCEPHALUS.

308. The Great Black-headed Gull
(Kroikocephalus ichthyaetus—(PallJ )

Family Glareolidae.
Gums GLAREOLA.

309. The Large Swallow Plover, or the Eastern Pratincole
(Glareolu orientalis~(Leach.) )

ORDER LIMIOOLE.

Family Charadriidae.
‘Gnuus LOBlVANELLUS.

310. The Red-wattled Lapwing ,
(Lobivanellus indicus—-—(Bodd.) )

GENUS GALLINAGO.

311. The Common Snipe
(Gallinago scolopacinus~( Bonap.) )

Family Parridae.
GENUS METOPIDIUS.

312. The Bronze-winged J acana
(Metopidius indicus-(Lath.) )

GEN'US HY DROPHASIANUS.

313. The Pheasant-tailed J acana . .
(Hydrophasianus chirurgus—(Scop .) )

ORDER GRA LLE.
Family Pt eroclidae.
Genus PETROCLES.

314. The Painted Sand Grouse . . .
(Petrocles fasciatua~(Scap.) )

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS;

GENES SYRRHAPTES.

Pallas’s Sand Grouse . . .
(Syrrhaptes paradoxus~(Pall.) )

The Thibetan Sand Grouse .
(Syrrhaptes tibetanus—( Gould.) )

Family Turnicidaa.

Genus TURNIX.

The Little Button Quail
(Turnix dussumieri~( Temm.) )

Family Gruidae.
Genus GRUS.

The Saras Crane . .
(Grus antigone—(Linn.) )
The Common Crane
(Grus communismBechst.)
The Australian Crane .
(Grus australasiana~Gould.)
The Large White, or the Snow-wreath Crane
(Grus leucogeranusui’all.)
The Whitenecked Crane
(Grus leucauchen—Temm.)
The Manchurian Crane
(Grus viridirostris—Vieill.)
The Demoiselle Crane .
(Grus Virgo—Linn.)

GENUS BALEARICA.

The Balearic Crane .
(Balearica pavonina—(Linm) )

The Cape Crowned Crane
(Balearica chrysopelargus- (Licht.) )

ORDER FULIOARIE.

Family Otididae.

GENUS HOUBARA.

327. The Indian Houbara Bustard

(Houbara macqueeni—J. E. Gray (3' Hardw.)

GENUS SYPHEOTES.

328. The Bengal Flmican

(Sypheotes bengalensis—(P L. S. Muller.) )

 

 

342.

343.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Rallidae .
Genus PORPHYRIO.

The Purple Coot .
(Porphyrio pol1ocephalus—(Lath ) )
Blyth’s Coot .
(Porphyrio chloronotus—~Blyth.)
GENUS FUL ICA.
The Coot
(Fulica atramLinn.)
Genus GALLICREX.
The Water Cock.
(Gallicrex cinereus—( Gmel. ) )
GENUS GALLINULA.
The Moor Hen . . .
(Gallinula chloropus—(Linn) )
GENUS ERYTHRA.
The White-breasted Water Hen
(Erythra phoenicura-(Penn.) )

ORDER GALLINE.

Family Phasianidae.
GENUS GALLOPERDIX.
Hardwicke’s Spur Fowl .
(Galloperdix lunulata—( Valenc.) )
GENUS FRANCOLINUS.
The Black Francolin . . . .
(Francolinus vulgaris—Steph.)
The Painted Fr'ancolin. . . .
(Francolinus pictus—Jerd. et Selb.)
The Grey Francolin .
(Francolinus ponticerianue—(Gmel.) )
The Wood Francolin . .
(Francolinns gularis— (Sham) )
Genus ARBORICOLA.
The Hill Francolin .
(Arboricola torqueola—( Val. ) )
GENUS BAMBUSICOLA.
The Western Bamboo-Partridge . . .
(Bambusicola fytchii—Anderson.)

Genus COTURNIX.
The Black-breasted or the Rain Quail
(Coturnix coromandelica -—(Gmel.) )
The Common Quail . .
(Coturnix communis—Bmm.)

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS.
611an PERDICULA.

344. The Asiatic Quail . .
(Perdicula asiatica—(Latk.) )
GENUS ROLLULUS.
345. The Crowned Partridge .
(Rollulus cristatus—(Gmel.) )
346. The Black Rollulus
(Rollulus niger——(Temm.) ) j

SUB-FAMILY ODONTOPHORINE.

GENUS CALLIPEPLA.

3417. The Californian Quail .
(Callipepla californica—(Skaw.) )

SUB-FAMILY CACCABININJE.

GENUS CACCABIS.

34:8. The Chukar Partridge .
(Caccabis chukar—(Gray.) )

GENUS TETRAOGALLUS.

349. The Himalayan Snow Cock .
(Tetraogallus himalayensis— Gray.)

350. The Thibetan Snow Cock
(Tetraogallus tibetanus— Gould.)

GENUS LOPHOPHORUS.

351. The Himalayan Monaul . . .
(Lophophorus impeyanus~(Lath.) )
352. Sclater’s Monaul.
(LOphophorus sclal er1—Jerdon )

SUB-FAMILY PHASIANINZE.
GENUS PHASIANUS.

353. The Pheasant . . .
(Phasianus colchicus—Linn.)
354. The Ring-necked Pheasant
(Phasianus torquatusfiamel.)
355. Soemmerring’s Pheasant .
(Pliasianus soemmerringi~TemmJ
356. The Bar-tailed Pheasant
(Phasianus reevesi—Gray.)
357. Elliot’s Pheasant . . .
(Phasianus ellioti—Swinh.)
358. The Cheer Pheasant . .
(Phasianus wallichii—Hardw.)

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Genus THAUMAL EA.

The Gold Pheasant . .
(Thaumalea picta-(Lz‘nnJ )
Amherst’s Pheasant
(Thaumalea amherstiae—(Leadb. ) )

GENus EUPLOCAMUS.

The Siamese Pheasant. .
(Euplocamus praelatus—-(Bonap. ) )
Swinhoe’ s Pheasant
(Euplocamus swinhoii-— Gould.)
The Rufous-tailed Pheasant. .
(Euplocamus erythropthalmus-(Rafles ) )
Vieillot’s Fireback . .
(Euplocamus vieilloti—(Gray. ) )
The Bornean Fireback .
(Euplocamus nobilis—Sclater.)
The Silver Pheasant
(Euplocamus nycthemerus—-(Linn.) )
The Lineated Kaleege .
(Euplocamns lineatus—— Vig.)
Anderson’s Kaleege
(Euplocnmus andersoni—Elliot.)
Cuvier’s Kaleege . .
(Enplocamns cuvieri—(Temm.) )
The Purple Kaleege
(Euplocamus horsfieldi—-— Gray. )
The Black-backed Kaleege .
(Euplocamus melanotis—(Blgth.) )
The White-crested Kaleege .
(Euplocamus albo-cristatus—( Vig.) )

Germs GALLUS.

The Red Jungle Fowl .
(Gallus ferrugineus— Gmel.)
Lafayette’s Jungle Fowl
(Gallus lafayettii—Less.)
Sonnerat’s Jungle Fowl
(Gnllus sonnerati—Temm.)
The Forked-tail Jungle Fowl
(Gallus variuSWSkaw.)
The Domestic Fowl
(Gallus domesticus—éLinn.)

 

leiii

378.

. 379.

380.

381.

382.

383.

384.

385.

386.

387.

388.

389.

390.

391.

. 392.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

,GENUS CERIORN IS.

The Horned Tragopan . . . . .

(Ceriornis satyra——(Linn.) )

The Black-headed Tragopan
(Ceriornis melanocephala— Gray.)

Temminck’s Tragopan . . . .
(Ceriornis temmincki—( Gray. ) )

Cabot’s Horned Tragopan . . . . .
(Ceriornis caboti— Gould.)

Blyth’s Tragopan . . . .
(Ceriornis blythicJerdon.)

SUB-FAMILY PAVONINJE.

GENUS PAVO.

The Common Peafowl . . . .
(Pavo cristatus-Linn.)
The Burmese Peafowl . . . .

(Pavo muticus—Linn.)

GENUS POLYPLECTRON.

The Peacock Pheasant . . . . . .
(Polyplectron chinques—Temm.)

The Malayan Peacock Pheasant . . . .
(Polyplectron bicalcaratum-(Linn.) )

GENUS ARGUS.

The Argus Pheasant . . . . . .
(Argus giganteus- Temm.)

SUB-FAMILY MELEAGRINE.

Genus MELEAGRIS.

The Domestic Turkey . . . . . .
(Meleagris mexicana-Linn.)

SUB-FAMILY NUMIDINJE.

GENUB NUMIDA.

The Common Guinea-fowl . . . . .
(Numida meleagris—(Linn) )

The Mitred Guinea-fowl . . . .
(Numida mitrata-Pall.)

The Crested Guinea-fowl . . . . .
(Numida cristata—Pall.)

The Vulturine Guinea-fowl . . . . .
(Numida vulturina-Hardw.)

PAGE.

338

339

l!

340

341

)9

34-2

1’

”

H

343

1’

 

 

393.

394.

395.

396.

397.

398.

399.

4000

401 .

402.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

Family Cracidae.
GENUs CRAX.

The Globosc Curassow .
(Crax globicera—Linn.) )

'Yarrell’s Curassow . . . . .

(Crux carunculata— Temm.)

Germs MITUA.

The Razor-billed Curassow . . . . . .
(Mitua tuberosa—«(SpixJ )

ORDER CRYPTURI.

Family Tinamidae.
GENUS RHYNCHOTUS.

The Rufous Tinamou . . . . . . . .
(Rhynchotns rufescens——-(Temm.) )

ORDER CASUARII.

Family Casuariidae.
Genus CASUARIUS.
The Common Cassowary
(Casnarius galeatua— ( Weill.) )
The Australian Cassowary . . .
(Casuarius australis— Wall.)

The One-wattled Cassowary.
(Casuarius uniappendicnlatustlyth. )

Gums DROMIEUS.

The Emu . . . . . . . .
(Dromaaus novae-hollandae— Vieill. )

ORDER STRUTHIONES.

Family Struthionidae.

GENUS STRUTH IO.

The Ostrich
(Struthio camelus——Linn.)

Family Rheidaa.
Gnnus RHEA.

The Common Rhea
(Rhea americana— Piez‘ll.)

 

xlix

PAGE.
343

’9

H

344

9’

345

348,

351

 

 

A HAND-BOOK

OF THE

MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS IN CAPTIVITY

IN

LOWER. BENGAL...“

a...
one.
a...
.0

._...__._.___

N.B.-—The names of the “ Class,” “ Order,” “ Family,” “ Genus,"
9%., having been given in the Table of Contents, are not repeated throughout
the work.
(1)THE ORANG-OUTANG.
(SIMIA SATYRUS-Linn.)
Hindi—Jangal-ka-admz’. Bengali—Ban-mdnns.
Bah-Borneo and Sumatra.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
The greatest length of time during which any orang has as yet

survived in the garden has been seven years, but this does not represent
an absolute maximum, as the articular specimen which has lived so
long is still alive and well."F T 9 duration of life of other animals of
the same s ecies, which have from time to time been exhibited in
the garden, as varied from three months to nearly three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Honsing.-The orang-outang is an extremely delicate animal, being
susceptible to the slightest change in the weather and to the least
dampness in its dwelling. It is therefore necessary that its accom-
modation should be such as to insure it a ainst both these risks. The
dwelling, moreover, should not be made 0 destructible materials, as,
however delicate it may be constitutionally, a healthy orang is a power-
ful animal, and its propensities for mischief are reat.

The following directions will be found use 111 in providing accom-
modation for orang-outangs. With a view to protecting these animals
from extremes of temperature, a substantial pneea structure is required.
At the same time, unless the buildin can be well shaded by trees and
of considerable elevation (which would both unsightly and expensive),
its interior will become as hot as an oven during the midday heat of an
Indian summer. In the absence, therefore, of shade and elevation, the
roof should‘be overlaid with a covering of darmah mats, arranged in such
a way as to allow free access of air underneath. It is necessary

 

* This animal has died, while this work has been under publication.
A

 

2 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

to be equally careful to keep out the cold and draughts. during the long
winter nights. A thick bedding of straw 1s, of course, 1ndISpensable.

The building should be well raised from the round. It ought to be
divided into two parts—an inner sleeping-room, w ere the animal can also
retire in case of bad weather, or whenever it likes, and an outer cage.

A brick-built room, 14 feet long, 12 feet broad and 7 feet

in height, with sufficient apertures in the wall to allow of ventilation,
and a sky-light, will be found to answer admirably as a sleeping-room
for a couple of orange. The outer cage should be ef the same
dimensions,,-andgc'loised in on three sides and the top With one inch
wroughttii'eni burst -‘ The floor of the building should be at least 3 feet
&bOfie (the ‘grpundtclleife'l.
} Aslit ESLiDIpbs‘si'ble, in Lower Bengal, to secure perfect freedom
from damp in any one-storied room, it is advisable to place in the
sleeping apartment a wooden platform, covering the length and breadth
of the room, some eighteen inches above the floor. . . .

An orang-outang’s dwelling, like a human habitatlon, requires
suitable furniture to make it complete. Perches, swings, trunks of
trees, horizontal bars, have been found to be the best substitutes for
this creature’s natural surroundings. Wooden balls afford it perpetual
amusement, and a common looking~glass of ordinary dimensions, firmly
fixed to the Wall, is an object of the greatest curiosity and pleasure to
this wild man of the woods.

Facet—An adolescent, or a full-grown, orang maintains excellent
health when fed upon a mixed diet consisting of three or four plantains, a
quarter of a seer of soaked gram, a quarter of a pound loaf pf bread, one
egg (unboiled), and such fruits or vegetables as may be available. accord-
ing to the season, repeated twice daily. The cost of such a dlet for a
full-grown orang will be about Rs. 5 per month. But it is as distasteful
to an orang as it would be to a human being to live upon the same
kind of food without change. The diet should, therefore, be varied
from time to time, and diiferent articles substituted according to the
taste, appetite, and state of health of the animal, as ascertained by
observation. Three different courses of diet are given in the following
scheme, which will be found useful as a guide under ordinary circum-
stances 1—-

(1) Plantains, rice (boiled), biscuits, vegetables.
(2) Gram (soaked), milk, bread, fruits.
(3) Plaintains, egg (raw), sugarcane, &c., fruit or sweet potato.

The fruits include papya, guava, mango, tepari (Pkg/satis-
perum’ana), rose-apple, orange, bael, &c., and. pumpkins, cucumber,
cabbage, raddish, peas, beans, sweet potato, brinJal, carrot, &c., may
be given as vegetables.

Besides the articles enumerated above, there are many other things
which an orang will. gladly take as food, such as bael fruit tablets, the
leaves of screw pines, husks of the green cocoanut, and the succulent pith
of a date-palm. N 0 two orange, however, have exhibited identically
the same taste, so that one may refuse to taste what another (has
consumed with avidity.

Breedz'ny.-- Orangs have never bred in this or (so far as known
to the writer) in any other garden.

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 3

Transport—It may be necessary sometimes to transport an orang
from one place to another, and for this purpose a good strong cage must
be used. For a full-grown orang-outang the cage ought to be at least
5’ x 4’ x 5’, made of well-seasoned planks with iron bars in front.
The bars should not be more than an inch and a half apart from each
other, as otherwise the animal is apt to thrust its arms through them «-
a movement which is not only attended with danger to persons standing
near, but to the animal itself. There should be a broad shelf inside the
cage for the animal to sit upon, and a moveable tray underneath to

' facilitate cleaning. The tray must be of sufficient depth to admit the

feeding and drinking vessels, which should all be removed soon after
the animal has fed and drunk. Either a thick canvas screen or a
removable shutter should be provided in front, so that in case of
bad weather the animal can be perfectly protected from draughts.
As a protection against extremes of heat and cold some mats and
blankets should be given, the former to protect the cage from the
hhat of the sun, and the latter for the animal to wrap, round itself
w on cold.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

The diseases to which orange have been found most subject

' are diarrhoea, dysentery, bronein'al catarrk (severe cold affecting the

chest), inflammation of the lungs, and paralysis.

. Dz'arrizaea and dysentery are common in young and newly-acquired
specimens, and, if not checked by timely remedies, prove fatal in the
majority of instances.

Bael (Egle marmelos) is very efficacious in checking dz'arr/zaee
and dysentery if given at an early stage. There are several forms in
which it can be administered :-— ‘

(a) Three to four chittacks of ripe pulp, freed from seeds and
glutinous exudations, given twice or thrice daily.

(b) 3an sherbet.-—-The following recipe can be recommended:
Take one part of ripe pulp and eight parts of pure
water; crush the pulp so as to mix it thoroughly with
water; strain through coarse linen, and sweeten with
sugar. Four or five ounces of the sherbet given three
times a day, for two or three days, ought to check the
diarrhoea or dysentery. In very obstinate cases 10 to 15
drops of tinct. kino may be added to each dose of sherbet.

(c) Baal fruit tablets.——Preserved bael fruit tablets are sold in
the bazar, and can be had for four to six annas a pound.
Two or three of these tablets given in the food twice daily
should benefit the patient.

(d) If the ripe bael is not available, the green fruit may be
roasted and the softened pulp sweetened with sugar or
made; into sherbet and given in the same quantities as
in (b .

In the worst cases of dysentery 20 grains of ipecacuanha
concealed in a bit of plantain or some other convenient edible may be
given with advantage. But as this medicine generally induces nausea
and vomiting, it will be found difficult to repeat the dose a second time.

A2

 

 

    

4 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

A table-spoonful of lime-water given twice daily With milk
' iarrhoea in oun er s ecimens.
checkgiiltll-IEIX: orang suffgringgfronri diarrhoea or dysentery should be
kept as much as possible to a milk-andrbread d1et. If, however, the
milk is found to disagree with the patient, 1t should be diluted wrth
a little soda-water. Barley, sage, and arrowroot sweetened with sugar
may also be given, or green husk of cocoanut and Jaman fruit (eagema
jambolaaa), if available. .

If the weather is fine, the animal should be allowed to roam
about freely, morning and evening; also the straw bedding should be
frequently changed. The hair about the seat should now and then be
washed with tepid water and rubbed dry, as othermse 1t W111 become
clogged and matted, and the animal’s health W111 suffer.

Severe cold, afiecting the chest, is a frequent and troublesome
complaint. Five drops of ipecacuanha Wine in half atea-spoonful of
honey twice a day, liquorice and honey, ammonla linlment rubbed
over the chest and throat, and fomentation, are some of the remedies
Which have been found successful ; snuff is also recommended. .

Diet—Milk and bread, eggs, boiled sweet potatoes, ra1s1ns, chicken
sou .
P The animal should be kept indoors and perfectly warm.
Inflammation of the lungs is .
if not early detected and checked ends fatally. If the animal
is tame enough, a poultice and ammonia limment W111 be very
beneficial. .

Paralysis—Two cases of paralysis have come undenobservation.
In one the seizure was brought on by sunstroke, and in. the other
by exposure to cold and damp. In the former case the animal never
recovered: in the latter it was removed to a healthier building, and
derived much benefit from the change. No medicine was administered
internally, but, to relieve the creature’s pain, camphor liniment and
fomentation were applied at intervals. In about four months it
recovered enough to be replaced in its former dwelling, and appeared
to have regained the health it formerly enjoyed. '

Older specimens are less liable than the younger to the ailments
above mentioned; but when taken ill they are more difficult to
cure: they exhibit a greater aversion to food and suspicion of

medicine.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF AN ORANG-OUTANG.

“Jennie ” was the first orang—outang domesticated in the garden
in March 1876. She was accommodated in a small covered enclosure
and provided with a square deal box stuffed with straw and hay, and
a light blanket for bed ; a small earthen ghurra filled with drinking
water and a tin mug were also placed for her, but she was not seen
to make much use of the mug for drinking; Though quite young,
probably not more than six months of age, 8 e had the wrinkled face
of an old man, and looked scared and cold. From the first she evinced
no fear of her keeper, but would sit on the ground close to him
taking her food, which consisted chiefly of milk, out of a tin basin

brought on by sudden chill, and .

    

IN CAP’I‘IVlTY IN LOWER BENGAL. 5

in his hand. She would at other times cling tightly to him,-—-—a boy
of fifteen or sixteen years,-—folding her long slender arms round
his neck ; while he was busy elsewhere she would occasoinally venture
on an exploration, but the slightest movement of a bear or other large
animal in the neighbourhood was enou h to frighten her, and send
her scampering and bewildered to search for her keeper or her dwelling,
whichever she could find first.

A special residence was subsequently made for her, in the shape
of a house in miniature with brick walls and thatched roof and
windows, and a raised platform inside to keep her off the damp
ground. A small compound was enclosed in front of the house and
laid out like a garden. After a day or two in her new house,
Jennie developed a tendency to mischief, and commenced pulling
the straw out from inside the thatch, so that it became necessary to
substitute a wooden roof. In the rains Jennie required special care ;
a slight exposure to wind and rain caused an attack of cold ; she had
to be carefully nursed at nights, fed with chicken soup, and have her
chest fomented. As she grew older, other things. such as bread,
boiled sweet potatoes, &c., were added to the milk diet. When hungry
she would scream loudly and show temper, rolling on the ground
like a spoilt child ; and no amount of attention or coaxing on the part
of the keeper could soothe her till food was forthcoming : her hunger

‘ satisfied, she would attempt to put bits of bread and other remnants of

food into the keeper’s mouth instead of her own.

Another orang, a.young male, was obtained about this time to
share her captivity, but the new animal was never in sound health,
and, in spite of every precaution, soon died. To console herself for
the loss of her temporary companion, Jennie soon grew attached to a
domestic cat. The milk supplied to Jennie attracted the eat, but
the cause of the reciprocity of the sentimmt was never discovered.
It may have been J ennie’s instinctive longing for companionship or
her fondness for anything hairy. The cat would patiently allow
herself to be subjected to any petty torments which it pleased Jennie
in her demonstrativeness to inflict upon her. One of her favourite
fancies was to climb up the nearest tamarind tree with her feline
companion, oftentimes pulling it up by the tail, and the cat showed
no resentment for such treatment. With good food and handling
J ennie’s appearance altogether improved; her hair became cleaner
and brighter; she lost the scared and chilly look she had at first;
she seemed to adopt pleasant and elegant manners with the visitors
to the garden ; she would gladly submit to be brushed and combed
by her keeper, and would at times sit cross-legged on the ground with
a hand looking glass in front, making faces at herself. During the
winter a flannel suit was given her, but she soon tore it to pieces.
In the summer of 1878, the Committee, having received an
urgent application from the London Zoological Society for a young
orang-outang, sent Jennie to England, accompanied by her favourite
cat.

For further information regarding orang-outangs the following
books may be consulted :--Malayan Archipelago~Wallace; Man’s
Place in Nature~—Huxley ; Anthropoid Apestartmann. ‘

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(2) THE HOOLOCK GIBBON.
(HYLOBATES HOOLOCK~(Harlan.))

Hindi-— Uluok Bandar, Kala Bandar. Bengali—Ulluk.
Hab.—-—Assam, Sylhet, Cachar, Manipur, Irrawadi Valley near

Bhamo, Chittagong and Arracan.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which any hoolock has lived in the
arden as yet has been nine years, one of a pair of hoolocks presented
in 188:5 being still alive. This is, however, the only instance “t Which
a licolock has lived so long. As a rule, the duration of his, 1n cap.
tivity, of this and other species of the genus IS short.

’l‘nrsrmsxr IN HEALTH.

flousing.~—Hnolocl<s are as delicate as orangs; the same care and
forethought are, therefore, necessary in housing and feeding them.
Much trouble and annoyance, caused by their frequent illness and
death, may be saved by giving them a lofty and airy dwelling well
raised from. the ground, with means and appliances for the admission of
sun and light and the exclusion of draughts and cold. The main-
tenance of an equable temperature is the first desideratum.

Wet, draught, and cold are fatal to hoolocks, at least in captivity.
The Gubbay House in the Calcutta Zoological Garden has been found
most suitable for the health and comfort of the gibbons as well as other
varieties of monkeys and smaller mammalia of delicate nature. It is
an oblong brick building, measuring 50 feet long by 30 feet broad by 22
feet high, with an arched Leslie-patent roof. The doors and fan-lights
are all made of thick plate glass, so that, while light and air are freely
admitted, draughts and cold can be effectually excluded and the tem-
perature regulated. The cages, each measuring 7 feet 6 inches long by
5 feet 6 inches broad by 14 feet high, are fixed in separate blocks against
the walls, an arrangement which, although involving unnecessary waste
of space, has been allowed to continue, as it does not interfere with the
health and comfort of the inmates. The Dumraon House also is well
adapted to the requirements of a good monkey-house, and in it also
hoolocks are kept. In this building the eight cages, each measuring 12
feet long by 7 feet broad by 19 feet high, are arranged in two rows with
a broad passage between. As they are intended to accommodate monkeys
of_unequal strength and size, the cages on one side have been built of
thlcker. iron rods with wider spaces between them, while those on the
other s1de'have been made of lighter and closer rods. To prevent the
monkeys in contlguous cages from biting one another, it has been found
necessary to have strong wire netting of 1 inch mesh attached to the
partitions separating one cage from another. Additional light and ven-
t1lat1on are obtalned from a sky-light, with glass shutters, in the roof.

. Although generally timid and inoffensive, hoolocks, like other
anlmals, are sometlmes intolerant of intrusion; this has been noticed
specially when one has lived for some time in a particular cage. Newly
obtained specimens should not, therefore, be placed with previous acqui-
sitions. An opportunity should first be given to them to become accus-
tomed to each other 3 presence through the bars, and this is best done

 

 

IN carrrvrrY IN LOWER BENGAL. 7

by keeping the new animal in a box outside the cage of its future com-
panion, and observing their attitude towards each other. The most
successful plan for keeping hoolocks alive for any length of time, either
in a zoological garden or in a private collection, is to let them run about
freely in the open as often and for as long as possible. If, however, a
new arrival were to be allowed such liberty, there would be a great
risk of losing it: the best course is therefore to allow it to first acquire
some tameness, which can usually be done in about a fortnight or a.
month, and then let it run about. After it has once become habituated
to the locality and food, it is sure to come back to the place and at the
hour of feeding. A hoolock is thus enabled not only to take plenty of
exercise, which its system much requires on account of itsiarboreal
habits, but the freedom gives it a chance of finding its own food,
such as the spiders and insects and eggs of small birds, which form no
inconsiderable portion of a gibbon’s diet in a state of nature.

A cage of the dimensions above given will accommodate two pairs
of hoolocks. To relieve the monotony of their captive life, a few play-
things should be provided, such as rope-swings, brass bells and wooden
balls. A. thick bedding of straw on the floor of the cage gives warmth
during the winter, and greatly conduces to their amusement at all
times. -
Food.—-—An adult hoolock in captivity may be fed on boiled rice,
soaked gram, various kinds of fruits and roots, bread, biscuits, eggs,
and occasionally sparrows: a live sparrow given at intervals is much
relished. A few grasshoppers, say five to eight, should also be given
sometimes.

The three following scales of diet will indicate the quantity of food
necessary for each hoolock per day and its cost per month :-

(a) Leaf of bread 1 chittack
Boiled rice with a pinch twice daily. Cost
of salt 2 chittacks Re. 1-8 per month.
Egg 1 (raw)
(b) giscuit h ..h 1
oaked ram wit a inc . .
of salt; p 2 chittacks twigs 2da11y. tgost
Plantains 2 8' Per “10“ ’
GrasshOppers ' 5 to 8
(c) Plantains 2
Sweet potatoes 2 chittacks twice daily. Cost
Milk 2 ,, Rs. 2 per month.
Loaf of bread 1 chittack

Instead of plantains and sweet potatoes any other fruit or root may
be substituted. Some of the hoolocks have been found to eat leaves
with avidity. .

Clean drinking-water should always be kept in the cage.

Morning between 8-30 and 9.

Evening ,, 3-30 ,, 4.
Breeding—Hookah have never bred in this garden.
Transport.-——In transporting a hoolock the same precautions should

be observed as in the case of an orang. The cage, of course, need

not be so strong or large.

Feeding time—

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The principal diseases to which a hoolock in captivity is subject
are diarrhoea, severe cold afiectz'ng the chest, consumption and skin disease.

Diarrhoea has often been overcome by bael, timely given, and
a light and wholesome diet, such as milk and bread, or arley and
water. If allowed to run on, it terminates fatally.

Severe cold afectz’ng the chest.-—-The animal should be kept in a
warm place, and, if possible, covered with a blanket.

Ten grains of chlorate of potash in an ounce of simple syrup
afford great relief to the patient.

Fomentation applied to the chest and throat, and chicken soup are
also recommended.

Consumption generally runs an insidious course and results in
death. If the malady is detected early, and the animal tame, it
should be allowed to run about during the day and in fine
weather. Whether tame or not, it ought to be removed from the
monkey-house and kept in a good roomy cage in a well-ventilated
place. By way of medicine it should have a tea-spoonful of syrup of
hypophosphate of lime, twice or thrice a day, and a tea-spoonful of
glycerine with milk twice daily. Nutritious and easily digestible
things Should be given as food, such as corn-flour boiled with milk,
oatmeal-cakes, eggs, raw or boiled, &c.

Skin disease is a very troublesome complaint which sometimes
affects these animals. Complete isolation is requisite. The following
treatment can be recommended :-—

Wash the body with soap and tepid water, and rub it tho-
roughly with powdered borax and sulphur (one part borax and three
parts sulphur). Repeat this treatment three times a week till cured.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or Hoowcxs.

With very rare exceptions hoolocks are gentle creatures and, when
kindly treated, become very tame and even affectionate. They often
express their sense of joy and affection for favours bestowed on them
in the shape of biscuits, buns and fruits, by extending their long arms
through the bars of the cage and gently twining them round the neck
of their benefactor. They have a keen sense of jealousy which they have
been often observed to manifest by great restlessness and a kind of
suppressed meaning, if they do not happen first to receive the attention
of the keeper or any one else who may be feeding the other animals
living in the same building with them. The idea of fun is also greatly
developed in them. Soon after the establishment of the garden a num-
ber of monkeys were, for want of better accommodation, kept together
in one compartment. It was at this time that the hoolocks were
observed to make merry at the expense of other monkeys. Although
not possessed of the pluck and strength of the others, the hoolocks
showed remarkable cunning and agility in eluding the pursuit of an
irritated Hanuman or a vindictive Rhesus.

When the other monkeys were engaged in quarrelling-not an
uncommon occurrence when several different kinds of monkeys are ke t

together—one of the hoolocks would softly let himself down by the be p

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 9

of the rope-swing or the ladder, pull the tail or gently tap the head of
a combatant, and scamper off before the assailed had time to turn and
seize his tormentor. Like human beings, the hoolocks have also indi-
vidual peculiarities. There was at one time an old female hoolock in
the garden, which had an inveterate hatred of the gentler sex of the
human race, and carried her dislike to a passion. She became fierce
and dangerous at the sight of a female visitor, dashing furiously
against the bars of the cage, so that special precautions had to be taken
to prevent her escaping and doin harm. On one occasion, however,
she managed to escape by eluding the vigilance of the keeper as he was
about to close the door. Having got loose she at once attacked an ayah
who happened to be passing, inflicting a severe wound in the woman’s
leg with her long canine teeth. A notice was immediately affixed to her
cage warning visitors not to approach too near. She used to throw out
her long arms and endeavOur to drag female visitors towards her, and
cases were reported in which inattention on their part to the warning
notice cost them a handkerchief, a glove or a. bonnet. It has been noticed
that the hoolocks from the Assam jungles bear captivity better than
those from Chittagong and Arracan. A hoolock has often been

observed to drink by scooping up water or milk in its hand.

(3) THE WHITE-CHEEKED GIBBON.

(HYLOBATES LEUCOGENYS- Ogilby.)

Description—About the size of a hoolock. Colour entirely black,
with the exception of the surface below the ears, the cheeks, and a _
small part immediately behind the chin, which are white. In some
specimens the white parts are scarcely visible.

Hab.—-Siam.

(4) THE WHITE-HANDED GIBBON.

(HYLOBATES LARv—(LinnJ)

Description.-—The chief characteristics of this species are its whitish
hands and feet, white or grey whiskers and beard, and a narrow
band of the same colour above the eyes; the rest of the body is black.

Hab.-—Arracan, Lower Pegu, Tenasserim and the Malayan
peninsula.

(5) THE AGILE GIBBON.
(HYLOBATES AGILIS—F. Currier.)

Description.—~The characteristic features of this monkey are that
the back part of its head, the flanks, the hips and the outer surface
of the limbs are pale yellow or yellowish grey. The chest, stomach, and
inside of the limbs and feet are dark brown.

Hob.-Sumatra.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(6) THE LONG-ARMED APE.
(HYLOBATES LEUCISCUS—(Schreb.) )

Description—Colour uniform grey; face much paler than other
arts; fingers and toes black, at least much darker than other parts;
air dense and woolly.

Hab.———Java.

(7) THE SIAMANG.
(HYLOBATES SYN DACTYLUS—(Desm.) )

Description-Larger and more robust than all other gibbons.
General colour deep black. The chief features of this gibbon are its
large dilatable sac in the throat and the webbed middle and index toes
of its foot.

Hab.——Sumatra.

The following remarks apply to all tkese species (3 to 7).

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A white-checked gibbon obtained early in 1889 is still alive and
well. The others have lived in the garden for periods varying from
a few days to a few months. Most of them are delicate animals and
do not bear captivity well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

. Hoasing.-—-With regard to housing, feeding and transport, these
animals may be treated like a hoolock. In feeding, allowance should,
of ocurse, be made for individual tastes. A white-checked gibbon has
been found, although fond of grasshoppers, not to care for eggs, either
raw or boiled.

Breeding—Nothing is known about their breeding in captivity.
TREATMENT IN sICKNEss.

Only a limited number of specimens of each of the species men.
tioned above have come under observation, and as most of them died
without having developed any marked symptoms of illness, no experience
has been gained in the treatment of their diseases. But as their habits
and food are nearly similar to those of the hoolock, it is highly pro-
bable that. they are subject to the same maladies also. A white-
cheeked g1bbon, for instance, lately suffered from an attack of skin
disease. It was noticed that it would not make friends with another
inmate. of .the same cage, a hoolock. It became weak and emaciated
and skin disease supervened. The hoolock was removed, and a whole:
some diet, which soon cured the animal, was prescribed as follows :—
Bread and milk, 2 chittacks of each, and two or three plantains and
some raisins in the morning at about 8-30. Two chittacks of gram,
soaked 1n.water, a pinch of salt, occasionally a small quantity of rice,
one biscuit, either one or two plantains or papya, or some other fruit in

the evening; a few assho ers ever d d .
the drinking watengr PP y ay, an a. lump of sulphur 1n

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 11

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The white-checked gibbon is very light and active. At times it

will move incessantly from side to side of the cage, or from; one perch
to another, or tumble on its straw bed and roll head over heels and
again bound away to the top of its prison. Like the hoolock, it drinks
water by scooping it up with its knuckles or fingers and licking it,
or by simply applying the lips to the drinking vessel. Its call is quite
distinct from that of a hoolock. In winter it is more noisy in the
middle of the day than either in the morning or evening; excessive heat
has the effect of moderating its spirits. When the weather is dull or
cold it sits huddled up, either on the floor of the cage or on the ledge of
the wall, looking the very picture of misery and depression; with the
return of warm weather it becomes active and playful. Like the orang
and the hoolock, it goes to bed early. It can walk a few steps as well
as, or better than, a hoolock—that is, without much waddling. The
habit of thrusting out its long slender arms in demonstration of its
sociable and affectionate nature has not been much noticed in this
s ecies.
P 0f the habits in captivity of the other gibbons mentioned above
very little is known. Most of them are as active and light as a hoolock
or a white-checked gibbon; the siamang that lived in the garden
appeared to be dull and morose.

For further particulars on the distribution and habits of gibbons,
the following books may be consulted :«Anatomical and Zoological
Researches—~Anderson; Malay Archipelago—Wallace ; Anthropoid
Apesu-Hartmann.

.

(8) THE HANDMAN.

(SEMNOPITHECUS ENTELLUS—(Dufi-esne.))

Hindi—Lamar, Mahdblr. Bengali—Hanamaa, Hana.

Descriptiona-The hanuman is a well-known monkey in Lower
Bengal: it is slender and elongated in form; the head and body are
about 2 feet long and the tail is slightly over 3 feet; there is no crest
on the crown of the head; hair of the eyebrows stiff and projecting;
colour of the head, body, limbs and tail varies from grayish brown to
pale isabellinethroughout; hands and feet black; face, ears and soles
of hand and feet also black.

Hab.-—South-Western Bengal, Orissa, the Central Provinces, Bom-
bay, Guzerat, Southern Rajputana and part of the North-Western
Provinces, extending to Kattywar, and probably Cutch. They are not
indigenous east of the river Hooghly, although stragglers are often
found.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a hanuman has lived in this
garden has been six years. Although indigenous to the country, and
living in a wild state within ten or twelve miles of Calcutta, these
animals do not bear captivity well.

 

 

A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Honsing.-——In keeping these animals it is necessary to bear in
mind that hanumans are essentially gregarious animals, and that
unless a large number of them are kept together they pine away and
die. But to crowd twenty or thirty of them into a comparatively small
cage would be equally wrong. Apart from any question of cruelty, it
is detrimental to their health to deprive them altogether of the Oppor-
tunity of indulging the habit of bounding and leapin which they
possess in an astonishing degree in a state of freedom. To afford the
necessary facilities, a large house is required, of the size and plan of
the Gubbay or Dumraon House (see page 6), devoted entirely to the
hanumans. In a house 50 feet long by 30 feet broad and of propor-
tionate height, with means for isolating the refractory and the weak,
30 to 40 hanumans could with comfort be kept. As they, especially
the older males, are strong and powerful animals, and are wont
to jump against the bars of the cage and shake them with consi-
derable violence, these need to be very firm. Stout branches of trees
should be let into the floor and the usual perches and swings provided.
It has not been possible in this garden to assign an entire house, as
suggested above, to these monkeys. A small number of them have
been lodged in one or other of the cages of the Gubbay or Dumraon
House. The tradition that male and female hanumans live in separate
troops throughout the greater part of the year is apparently incorrect ;
1t 1s nevertheless necessary that there should be a preponderance of
females to males, so that in a collection of 30 hanumans there would be
no need for more than half a dozen males. In selecting hanumans to
replenish stock preference should be given to young and adolescent
animals,‘as they are likely to do better than the older ones, which are
generally ill-tempered.

. Animals of uncertain and vicious temper, especially monkeys
which have become savage from various causes, as family pets, are
often sent to this garden as a comfortable and convenient home.
Such creatures, whether hanumans or other monkeys, should never be
placed With those already in captivity: if this is done, there will be
no end of fighting and biting. These should either be kept in spare
cages of one of the monkey-houses, when available, or in one of the
movable cages, .and 1f practicable in sight of the tamer specimens.

_ FOOdnT-Wlth the exception of eggs, grasshoppers or any other
kind of animal food, the same diet that has been indicated as suitable
for an orang or a hoolock will do for a hanuman, rovided a sufficient
quantity of leaves is given every day. Almost all t 9 members of this
genus consume. leaves largely in a wild state, and unless this essential
element of their natural diet is regularly supplied them in captivity
no amount of goodifeeding 1s of any avail. They strip off the pinnate;
leaves of .the saJma (Murcnga pteregosperma) with great dexterity.
'lhe followmg are some of the trees and creepers the leaves of which
experience has shown to be best suited to, and most liked by these
animalsz—sajina (Mnrenga pieregosperma), pipul (Ficus religiosa), hair
{Zisiphus Jnjuba), amra (Spondias mangifera), tamarind (Tamai‘indus
indica), telakucha (Moniordica monadelpkea), bael (Egle marmelos).

11v CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 13

Breeding.-—Hanumans have not unfrequently bred in this garden,
and have never produced more than one at a birth. It is always better
to isolate the female before the birth takes place, so that it may be
better observed and precautions taken to guard against the constipation
ang indigestion to which an animal in this condition is not unfrequently
su ject.

In cases of constipation, half an ounce of raisins or prunes, or one
or two boiled onions should be given. No food should be allowed so
long as the indigestion lasts. Damp, cold and draughts should care-
fully be avoided. The female with offspring should not be replaced
among its companions until the young one is three or four months old.
Should anything prevent the isolation of the female before giving birth,
or should the birth take place unexpectedly, the proper measure is to
remove all the ill-tempered creatures, if there are any in the same cage,
to another place. This is easily accomplished by decoying them with
food. A female monkey and her offspring have on more than one
occasion thriven without isolation, but separation is advisable with a
view to more careful observation and to guard against any possibility
of molestation from the other and less friendly inmates of the same
cage, especially at the time of feeding. It may be supposed, too, that
all animals naturally prefer seclusion at such times.

Transport— No very elaborate preparations are necessary to trans-
ort a hanuman, either by rail or by ship. The same kind of cage as
as been recommended for an orang, but lighter,‘ will comfortably

accommodate four of these animals-three females and one male. If
the journey is by rail, and to last for a few days only, some of their
favorite leaves in addition to the ordinary food can easily be provided.
If a long sea voyage has to be undertaken, no leaves can be sent with
the animals. ,
In cold latitudes and in rough weather the cage containing these
monkeys on board a steamer ought to be placed near the engine-room,
as severe cold kills them. They must always have drinking water in
their cage, otherwise they drink to excess when opportunity offers. ‘

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea and consumption are the principal diseases from which
these monkeys have been observed to suffer in captivity.

Diarrhoea in a hanuman is treated in the same way as in a
hoolock. Leaves should either be stopped, or judiciously given during

the time the malady lasts.
Consumption—Several cases of this disease have occurred, but in

none of them was it detected until after the death of the animal.
Wounds and injuries, the results of fighting and accidents, are also
of not unfrequent occurrence. .

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or HANUMANS.

The hanuman in captivity has none of the sprightliness and ,
friendliness of a hoolock or the amusing characteristics of an orang.
The older animals are generally dull and languid, and the males even
savage and spiteful. Instances are known of their attacking and

* In this case no iron rods are necessary, so that wooden battens may be advantageously
substituted .

 

 

 

14: A HAND'BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

wounding an incautious keeper without provocation. When annoyed or
provoked, both the young and the old have a peculiar way of expres-
sing their feelings by a kind of grin and a harsh, grating note,
accompanied by such action as may either indicate a readiness of the
animal to bound away, or to attack the object of its wrath on the
slightest further irritation. A tame hanuman sometimes becomes
extremely attached to its guardian. There is also evidence to show
that it appreciates kind treatment. A large male hanuman once hurt
its elbow; the wound festered, so that an operation became necessary.
The animal was removed to a small handy cage, and the wound, after
having been opened, was carefully dressed and bandaged. This latter
operation had to be repeated for about a fortnight, and the animal
would extend its arm to be dressed, and show not the least fear or dis-
pleasure at the pain unavoidably caused by syringing the tender sore.
Female hanumans have a great afiection for their young. It has been
observed more than once that, when the young ones die while still
being nursed, the mothers refuse to allow them to be removed. Besides
the harsh, grating whine expressive of anger or fear, the hanumans
have two other notes; the deep, loud whooping call which is seldom
heard in captivity, and the plaintive suppressed screaming of young
animals. They generally sit with their feet resting against the bars
of the cage.

For further information regarding hanumans, Blanford’s Fauna
of British India~—Mammalia, may be consulted.

c
(9) THE CRESTED MONKEY.

(SEMNOPITHECUS CRISTATUS—(Rafies.))

Desorzptz'on.——Head and body about 2 feet ; tail about 2 feet
6 inches; slender in size; colour generally dark grey ; hair in general
black, tipped with white ; face, forearms, hands and feet black; under
parts of the body paler ; head crested.

Helm—Sumatra and Borneo.

(10) PHAYRE’S LEAF-MONKEY.

(SEMNOPITHECUS PHAYREI-(BlythJ )

Description—An adult male measures, head and body, about 22
inches; tail 30 inches; slender in form. The chief characteristics
of this monkey are its peaked longitudinal crest on the head; some-
what long whiskers, nearly covering the ears; eyelids and a broad
surface above them white or whitish; white hair around the month;
back parts dark ashy brown or grey; chest and abdomen whitish.
It presents a pecullar spectacled appearance owing to the white colour
of the eyelids and the surface above them.

. Hab.——Arracan, the Bassein districts of Pegu, Northern Tenas-
serim.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An example of each of the above 8 ecies 9 and 10 h b 1' '
in the garden for the last ten years. P ( ) as een mug

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 15

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—These animals have lived in excellent health in one
of the cages of the Gubbay House. . .

In the ordinary course of management 1t may sometimes become
important to remove the inmates of one cage to another in the same
or in a different house. The essential point to remember is that it is
necessary to be careful, as the least interference with their accustomed
mode of life makes them suspicious, defeating, it may be, the very
object of a change. On one occasion, though the gentlest means were
adopted, the simple operation of a transfer frightened one of these animals
so much that it touched neither food nor water for the whole day.
Although these monkeys are by no means hardy animals, the excellent
health which those in the garden have enjoyed so long is mainly due
to the suitableness of their dwelling—house, where they can be protected
against all the risks of a changeable climate. . .

Food. —-.Soaked gram, boiled rice, plantalns, bread, biscuits, pump-
kins, sweet potatoes, dates, have been found to agree best with them.
They do not appear to have the same partiality for leaves as hanu-
mans have. Doob grass and tender shoots of the tamarind and
pandanus leaves are, however, sometimes acceptable to them ; the same
quantity of food as has been recommended for a full-grown hoolock
is enough for one of these monkeys. .

Breeding—These animals have never bred in this garden.

Transport—They can be transported in the same manner and
with the same precautions as a hanuman.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These animals have uniformly maintained excellent health. With
the exception of a single occasion when the Phayre’s monkey suffered
from an attack of diarrhoea, they have never been known to be unwell.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Both the Phayre’s and the crested monkeys are very shy. They
generally avoid coming down from a retired place close to the top of
the cage. Though very quiet, they are not uninteresting. There is
a certain playfulness in their habits, but not so strongly developed
as in the case of other species. They are to a certain extent inquisi-
tive, but not at all mischievous. They agree very well with one
another.

The following species (11 to 16) may be mentioned together.

(11) THE ASSAM LANGUR.

(SEMNOPITHECUS PILEATUS—Blytlz.)

Descm‘ptz’on.-—Smaller than a hanuman. Hair of the crown thick,
forming a kind of cap, which is distinct in some individuals, but
indistinct in others: hair of the cheeks long, directed downwards and
backwards, partially covering the ears and forming a short rufl.‘ Eye-
brows long and stiff. Tail long and tufted. The upper surface of the
head and the back part of the body ashy grey: the limbs are ferrugi-
neous grey, the hands and feet dark brown, and the fingers pale yellow.
Throat, chest and the front part of the body generally yellowish white

 

 

 

16 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

or pale orange, sometimes ashy white. Face black; extremity of the

tail black. .
Hath—Assam, Sylhet, Tipperah, Chlttagong, Arracan and Upper

Burmah.

(12) THE PROBOSCIS MONKEY.

(SEMNOPITHECUS (N ASALIS) LARVATUS—Geqfl‘. St. Hilaire.)

Description. --The chief feature of this monkey is its now, which
is produced into a proboscis. The- animal is thus described by Dr.
Anderson (Anatomical and Zoological Researches, 1878) :-——“ The upper
surface of the head, neck, back and flanks dark red-brown, passing into
greyish yellow on the crapper, tail, and limbs. A yellow stripe on the
shoulder. The hair of the sides of the face, neck and shoulder is long
and of a yellowish tint variegated with reddish brown, and the chin is
well bearded. The under parts are yellowish white and the tail is
tufted. The face is dirty yellow merging with white around the lips.
The under surface of the extremities are blackish, and the ears are of
the same colour, and small. Nose produced into a proboscis with large
nostrils opening downwards and separated from each other by a
septum (partition) "‘ * *2 The eyes are rather widely apart, the neck
short, and the throat rather swollen from the presence of a laryngeal

”

sac.
Huh—Borneo.

(13) THE RED-HAIRED MONKEY.

(SEMN OPITH ECUS RUBIC UN DUSr-Mullerj

Descriptions-About the same size as an Assam langur. The
characteristic features of this monkey are its dark maroon colour, and
the radiating hair of the forehead. In some specimens the hands and
feet are blackish; in others, of the same colour as the body. Hair of
the sides of the body long and directed downwards and backwards.
Face and lips flesh-coloured, blo tched with pale bluish black spots.

Huh—Borneo.

(14) TEE BANDED LEAF MONKEY.

(SEMNOPITHECUS FEMORALIS—Horqfield.)

Description—Dr. Anderson describes it as “ a uniformly brownish
black. monkey, the limbs, head and tail being almost wholly black, but
the difference between the colours is not well defined, and the fore limb
1s.gr1zzled With whltish hairs. The tail is slightly tuftedat its extre-
mity. There 1s a rather short, vertical crest directed backwards, the
ham antenor to 1t projecting forward over the eyebrow. The ears
are moderately large and partially exposed. The hair on the front
and s1de of the head and on the middle of the crest is blackish or dull
brown. The upper lip and chin are clad with short whitish hairs, with
longer black ha1rs intermixed on the chin. Along the flanks the hair
18 s ort, sparse, brown, and somewhat grizzled, which is the character

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IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 17

also of the belly. The throat, sides of the neck and chest are con-
colorous with the upper parts. A narrow, well-defined white line
passes along the middle of the under surface from the chest in the
adult to the binder portion of the abdomen; “‘ * * the white line is
prolonged as a fine line to the wrist and ankle.”

Hab.——Borneo, Sumatra and the Malayan peninsula.

(15) THE PURPLE-FAGED MONKEY.

(SEMNOPITHECUS CEPHALOPTERUS—Zimm.)

Descm'ptz'on.-—About the same size as a hoolock, tail about 24 inches.
The distinctive characteristics of this monkey are the following :——-“ A.
ruff of white hair, more or less tinged with brown, encircling the face
and extending on to the throat and under surface of neck; the hair
on the sides of the face long, soft, and pointed upwards, forming a
conspicuous whisker; the skin of the face black with a purplish tinge;
the palms and soles dull black.” The general colour of this monkey is
greyish black. Tail tufted.

Hab.—-Ceylon.

(16) THE SIMPAI.

(SEMNOPITHECUS MELALOPHUS—F. Caviar.)

Description.-—It has a slender body about 18 inches in length, tail
about 30 inches. The hair of the crown formed into a crest, which is
erect and compressed laterally, but not equally distinct in all specimens.
Its colour is pale yellowish white; hands and feet yellowish ; face
bluish black, washed with a leaden hue.

Huh—Sumatra.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of these, the Assam langur has lived the longest, one obtained in
1883 being still alive. A proboscis monkey lived for about two years
and six months, and a red monkey for about the same period. A
banded leaf monkey lived for nearly fourteen months; the duration
of life of both the purple-faced monkey and the simpai was very short,
not exceeding six months in each case.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—The housing of the Assam langur calls for no parti-
cular remarks, except that it does not seem to pine like the hanuman
when kept singly; it is, however, better to give it company whenever
possible. The comparatively long period during which a specimen has
lived in good health in the garden is mainly due, no doubt, to its
habitation. The proboscis and the red monkeys, specially the former,
are more retiring in disposition, and it is therefore necessary that they
should be afforded facilities for privacy. This is very easily done.
About two feet below the top of the cage a shelf should be placed,
broad enough for a couple of monkeys to sit or lie upon. By boarding

B

 

18 A HAND-1300K or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

up the sides of the cage from the level of this shelf to the top some
seclusion can be obtained. Also, instead of fixing the planks perma—
nently against the wire or the bars of the cage, they may be joined
together by battens so as to form a continuous screen for each side of the
cage and suspended by hooks. Such an arrangement has this advan-
tage, that the screen can be removed whenever desired either for the
purpose of thorough cleaning or for ventilation.

A. screen such as has been described also affords additional protec-
tion against bad weather and during very cold nights. The purple-
faced monkey and the simpai will do better if they can be allowed
occasional liberty in the same way and under the same restrictions as
hoolocks on many occasions have been.

Facet—The Assam langur or black-capped monkey appears to be
less fond of leaves than most of the other members of the same genus.
Possibly their favourite leaves have not been discovered and provided,
and those given as food are not appreciated. Several of these langurs
have exhibited a slight partiality for a kind of Amaranthus leaves;
others again would not touch them. The proboscis and red monkeys
have shown a liking for the green stocks of paddy and wheat'and
young shoots of kalmi (Uonvolvalas reptens). Neither the purple-faced
nor the banded leaf monkey ever throve in this garden, although
the various kinds of food suggested by experience were tried.

Besides leaves and grass these monkeys must have fruits, vege-
tables, bread, biscuits; in fact all the several articles of food which have
been recommended for feeding hanumans and other monkeys will be
found useful for these also.

Breeding.—-None of these monkeys have ever bred in the garden.

Treatment in sickness.~——The only disease to which these creatures
are known to be subject is diarrhoea ; it yields to the same treatment as
has been already recommended.

The red monkey occasionally suffered from a kind of fit, but the
character of the attack was never properly ascertained.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The Assam or black-capped langur is gentle and timid. Even
after several years of captivity it has never been known to become
sociable. On the other hand, it is never so savage or ill-tempered as
a hanuman. In captivity most of them lose the pale yellow colour of
the lower parts and sides of the head, neck and chest; whether this is
the effect of age or. change of conditions has not been determined.
‘ In some the colour disappears for a season only, generally during the
rains, appearing .agam 1n the spring. In its movements the black-
capped monkey 1s more hght and active than a hanuman. A speci-
men 1n the garden developed, at one time, a mischievous propensity of
b1t1ng .the battens and posts of the wooden cage in which it was for
some tlme kept. Monkeys of this species have not been seen to carry
the1r tails curved forward over their back as a hanuman sometimes
does whlle walking on the floor of the cage, or on the perch.
:Whatever may be the habits of the proboscis monkey in a wild state,
1t is silent, slow and phlegmatic in captivity, and sits for hours

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 19

together in one place, scarcely noticing the visitors standing outside
the cage. The only time that it has ever been seen to become lively
is at the hour of feeding, when, shaking off its usual lethargy, it
addresses itself eagerly to the contents of the feeding vessel. Once, on
the arrival of a young female of this species, it was, after a day or two,
placed with the older male then living in the garden. The young one
was not found to be at all afraid of the adult monkey, neither did the
latter show any hostility towards her, so that during the course of the
day they became fast friends. The red monkey is more quick in its
movements, and is decidedly more sociable in temperament than the
proboscis monkey. The urple-faced monkey is an active, harmless
creature, but extremely s y. The few specimens obtained for the
garden have all died within a few months after their arrival, so that
there has been a want of adequate opportunity of observing them.

For further information regarding these monkeys, the following
works may be consulted :--—Anatomical and Zoological Researches——
Anderson; Natural History of Quadrumana—Martin.

(17) THE DIANA MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS DIANA— (Lima) )

Description.——Length of the head and body of a full-grown Diana is
about 22 inches. tail 27 inches; slender in build. The leading features of
this beautiful monkey are its semi-lunar white frontal band, white beard
( which is peaked), white throat, chest, and anterior parts of the shoulders.
The abdomen, sides and the inner side of the thighs pale orange red;
a line of white runs along the outer side of each thigh to the knee;
lower back deep chestnut ; the rest of the body dark freckled grey.

Hair—West Africa.

(18) THE MALBROUCK MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS CYNOSURUS-Scop.)

Descriptionr-Length of the head and body about 18 inches, tail
about 20 inches. General colour of the body above greenish brown,
washed with olive, under parts whitish; limbs greyish; face pale flesh

colour; scrotum blue.
Hab.-—-West Africa.

(19) THE GREEN MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS CALLITRICUS—Js. Geqfi‘r.)

Description—Of a uniform light green colour, much paler under-
neath; young animals dirty pale green; length of the head and body
about 18 inches.

Hab.——-West Africa.

This animal has been recently acquired.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(20) THE TALAPOIN MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS TALAPOIN—(Eml.))

Description—Length of the head and body about 14 inches, tail 18
inches. General colour of the body olive green, paler or whitish below;
short, straw-coloured whiskers partially hide the ears; face black. There
is a faint whitish frontal band.

Bah—West Africa.

(21) THE HOCHEUR MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS N ICTITANS—(Iimz.) )

Description—Length of the head and body about 16 inches, that of
the tail 80 inches. General colour black, freckled with white; limbs black.
The characteristic feature of this species is the conspicuous white mark
on the lower part of the nose.

Hab.-—West Africa.

(22) THE PLUTO MONKEY.

(CERCOPITHECUS PLUTO—Gray.)

Description—Black throughout. The chief characteristics of this
monkey are 1ts well-developed black and white-ringed whiskers, and the
broad white frontal band. The hair of the lower back is parted in the
middle, and brushed downwards and forwards, washed with greenish

white with a chestnut tinge in some laces. T il l 't b 1 b If
greenish white, distal half black or greryish black? ong, 1 s ass a

(23) THE LESSER WHITE-.NOSED MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS PETAURISTA—(SchrebJ)

Description—Length of the head and. bod 17 to 18 inches ta'l
about 22 inches. In the Hocheur Monkey, yNo. 21, the white is

confined to the lower portion of the nose alone; in the present one both
the lower half of the nose and the upper lip are white. The whiskers,
beard, throat, 0119313 and abdomen are also white. The general colour
of the back and head is reddish olive brown ; a black band runs across
the forehead. The tail is grey above, whitish below.

Hula—West Africa.

(24) THE MOUSTACHE MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHEOUS CEPHUS—(Linn.))

. Description—Head and body about 1 foot 7 inches, tail 2 feet
2 inches. (lolourbf the body above golden brown, freckled with black;
head. and thighs tinged with green ; tail brownish orange ; under parts
wh1t1sh; whlskers well developed and of a yellowish colour ; face violet

blue. UPPBI' lip, a white trian ular mark b 1 -
* Hab.——West Africa. K g ” a ove a b ack margin.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(25) THE PATAS MONKEY.
(CERCOPITHECUS PATAS—(Schreb) )

Description—Head and body about. 1 foot 5 inches, tail almost
twice that length. General colour brownlsh red ; under parts whitish;
there is a black superciliary stripe, whence a black lme runs down to the
nose.

Huh—Senegal, Ethiopia.

(26) THE MONA MONKEY.

(CERCOPI’I‘HECUS MONA——(Sclzreb.))

Descm’ptz‘on.—-Colour of the hair brilliant golden green ; back and
sides brown or chestnut brown ; outer parts of the limbs and tail slaty
grey; the neck, chest and abdomen white; a black band across the
forehead. Ears and hands flesh coloured.

Hula—West Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A Diana monkey has lived the longest, 229., from 1876. Although
in excellent health otherwise, it has been subject to a paralytic affection
of both the hind limbs since 1880, and to which curvature of the Spine
has latterly supervened. A Malbrouck monkey and a Hocheur monkey
have each lived as many as seven years. A Talapoin monkey has
been living for the last eight years and is in excellent health. A Pluto
monkey has been kept for six years. The moustache monkey lived for
eighteen months only. The lesser white-nosed and the Mona monkeys,
obtained respectively in 1888 and 1889, are still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-As all these animals are natives of a warm dry climate,
they require to be guarded against the risks of the damp and mois-
ture of Lower Bengal. Ample space should also be provided for
their gambols and restless activity. In the Gubbay House (described
on page 6) nearly all the conditions necessary for their health and
comfort are fulfilled.

Food.——All these monkeys thrive on the same food as is given to
the hoolocks, hanumans and other monkeys mentioned before. The
appear to have no taste for leaves, but are extremely fond of fruits,
especially dates and oranges. During the winter, when these fruits are
plentiful, they form a considerable proportion of the diet of these
monkeys. Boiled rice does not appear to agree with some of them.

Breeding.—-The Malbrouck has bred in the garden, the period of
gestation being close upon seven months. Before and on the birth of
the young monkey attempts were made to separate the male; these failed,
but it proved to be a kind parent. For nearly a month and a half the
infant monkey clung to the breast of the mother, to whom an extra
allowance of four ounces of milk and two ounces of bread was given
for nearly three months from the date of the birth.

 

 

 

22 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Transport—The suggestions for the transport of hoolocks and

hanumans will be found useful for these monkeys also.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The diseases to which these monkeys have been observed to be
most subject are tuberculosis of the liver, a kind of flatulent colic,
paralysis, &c. Diarrhoea has not been found to be a common complaint
among them. . p

The cases of tuberculosis of the liver were not detected till after
the death of the victims, and were therefore not specifically treated.

FlatuZent colic.—-This disease is evidently attended with pain, but
only the younger monkeys seem to be liable to it. It may be caused by
careless feeding on the part of the keeper, or by improper and indiges-
tible food given by the visitors. A teaspoonful of castor 011 With an
equal quantity of honey will soon prove an effective remedy. As the
disease generally affects young animals, fomentation can be applied
without difficulty, and will be found to give much relief. No food
should be given until some time after the medicine has taken effect and
the animal shows restlessness and a great desire to eat.

Paralysis.——The Diana monkey was struck by paralysis in conse-
quence of a sudden exposure to chill. Through want of proper
accommodation it was kept in a place which, though perfectly free from
damp, was not properly guarded against draughts and cold ; the space,
inoreover, allotted to the creature was much too small for its active

abits.

As soon as the disease was noticed the animal was removed to a
protected place and provided with a blanket. Liniment of belladonna
was applied to the affected parts morning and evening. Although no
treatment has succeeded in removing the stiffness of its lower limbs,
it is otherwise in perfect health.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Agility and activity are the chief characteristics of the monkeys
of this group. . Most of them are also extremely inquisitive. They
exhibit their curiosity, for instance, by searching corners and pockets and
constantly returning to the search. They are full of tricks, and will
amuse themselves by leaping and tumbling over a walking stick held
out horizontally to them. The Diana and the white-nosed monkeys are
Specially sociable, and like to be caressed and stroked ; they will sit with
their backs against the bars of a cage and invite friendly visitors to pay
attention to them. Nevertheless they are not so affectionate as a
hoolock or a young orang, and do not manifest the same clinging

attachment to their keepers. For several months after the Diana .

monkey had become subject to paralysis, it was noticed to become some-
what cross towards the evening; probably it felt worse at that time.
For further information regarding these monkeys Martin’s Natural

History of Quadrumana or Cassel’s Popular Natural History may be
rea . .

 

1v

le CAP'I‘IVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(27) THE RHESUS MONKEY.

(MACACUS RHESUS- (Audebert.) )
Hindi-Bundur. BengalimBandar, Markat Bandar.

The common bandars are well known animals in Lower Bengal.
They appear to vary much in colour, size, and in the length and
thickness of the fur, and even of the tail; some are more decidedly
thick-set in build than others; much difference may also be noticed in
their physiognomy ; the red colour of the face and callosities so charac-
teristic of the adult monkeys is partially or altogether wanting in
many.

Hab.—-Northern India generally, ascending the Himalayas to about
700 feet and extending as far south as the Godaveri; Assam, Arracan,
Western China. Specimens have been obtained from the Simla and
N aga Hills, China, and India generally.

(28) THE MACAQUE MONKEY.

(MACACUS CYNOMOLGUS—(Linn.))

Descriptions—It resembles the Rhesus monkey in general appearance,
but its tail is longer, being about 19 inches. The colour of the body is
grey or greyish brown; face generally dusky; the eyelids White ; in
some specimens there is a white mark between the eyebrows; it stands
as high as a Rhesus.

Hab.-—Irrawadi Valley, Burmah, Malayan peninsula, Siam.

These two species (27 and 28) are mentioned together, as they
closely resemble each other in structure and habits.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a Rhesus monkey has lived in the
garden is fifteen years. One obtained in 1877 is still alive, and in
excellent health.

A Macaque monkey has lived twelve years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH. .

Hoasz‘ng.—-The Rhesus and the Macaque monkeys are not very deli-
cate ammals, and with ordinary care thrive well in captivity. They do
as well singly or in pairs as when large numbers of them are kept
together. In the latter case they give trouble, as they are extremely
quarrelsome creatures, and, unless well watched and controlled, fight
constantly, and to such an extent that death frequently results from
inJuries received in fighting. Both the Rhesus and the long-tailed
monkeys are domiciled in the Dumraon House (see page 6), care
being taken to keep the weak or unhealthy in other places. In this
climate it is necessary to avoid overcrowding, so that in a place of
the size of the Dumraon House, which is 50 feet long and 23 feet
broad, there ought not to be more than 20 or 25 monkeys.

 

 

 

 

 

24 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Food.-—These monkeys are almost omnivorous. Boiled rice, soaked
gram, biscuits, pumpkin, cucumber, brinjal and other vegetables con-
stitute their ordinary food. Eggs are occasionally added to their diet as
substitutes for the insects and spiders which, in their wild state, they
eat besides fruits and vegetables. The cost of feeding an adult monkey
is from Rs. 2 to RS. 2-8 a month. Minced meat is sometimes, but rarely,
given them.

Breeding.——The Rhesus and the long-tailed Macaque have bred and

interbred in this garden. The period of gestation is between six and
seven months. Female monkeys nurse their young with great tender-
ness, and are competent to protect them from harm; the older animals
do not molest the young, so that the latter have been reared in the
midst of a number, but it is always better, as elsewhere remarked, to
segregate the female when a birth is expected. A shy and nervous
animal while nursing its young is often averse to coming down for food
from its retreat, and unless the keeper is intelligent and watchful she
has to depend upon the stray bits left uneaten by others and runs the
danger of slow starvation. An aggressive creature in a similar condi-
tion, on the other hand, provokes quarrels, and is liable to suffer accord-
in 1y. On one occasion a Rhesus with a young one was so severely
injured in the throat, in foraging for food, that it was with some diffi-
culty removed and cured.

The young monkey after birth attaches itself to its mother, and will
not leave her for nearly a month, the mother nursing the young all the
time with the utmost solicitude; after this time it will make little
excursions on its own account, but is careful not to stray far, and at the
slightest sound or movement it seeks refuge with her. The mother is
unremitting in her vigilance over her offspring and in her attention
to its personal wants and appearance. Compared with an orang-outang
of the same age, a monkey is more helpful and intelligent, and in fact
all its instincts are strongly developed at a comparatively early age.
In about a month the young one begins to pick up gram and other food,
and then the struggle for life soon begins, and the mother and the
young one commence to fight over their food, although their natural
instincts bind them to each other at other times.

Transport—A travelling cage 5 feet 6 inches long, 3 feet broad,
and about 2 feet 6 inches high, will comfortably accommodate 10
to 15 young monkeys for transmission either by rail or by ship. The
cage shOuld be made of deal or jarul (Lagorstrwmz‘a regina) planks,
teak being needlessly expensive. Upright battens placed at an interval
of an inch and a half should form the front and the upper one-third of
the back and sides, the lower two-thirds being made of planks. There
must be a shelf for the animals to sit or lie upon, fixed in such a way as
to allow of its being drawn out for cleaning ; a tray at the bottom is
also required. The vessel containing the drinking water should be placed
above the level of the shelf, and in such a manner that its contents may
not become dirty. As a precaution against cold or bad weather, a good
canvas screen for the front and plank shutters for the battened portion
of the back and sides should be provided. An iron scraper, some saw-
dust, a few bundles of straw, and the necessary food, would complete the
equipment. A more common kind of cage, but of the same style, is

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 25

sufficient, if only two or three monkeys are being conveyed. The older
the monkeys are, the more difficult it is to transport a number of them
together.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These monkeys are subject to the same diseases as orange and
hoolocks in captivity. Besides diarrhoea, dysentery and other diseases
already mentioned, they often suffer from various kinds of wounds, the
results of fighting and accident. Fortunately they possess great vitality,
and tithe process of healing is so rapid that unless the wound Is very
severe or extensive, little or no human skill is necessary to effect a cure.
When the injury is deep or extensive, the following treatment should
be adopted. The surrounding fur having been carefully shaved and
the wound washed with a weak solution of corrosive sublimate (1 in
1,000 or 1 in 1,500), iodoform should be sprinkled over it. Lint should
not be used, even if the wound be somewhat deep, as 1n. that case the
monkey will finger it constantly until it succeeds in rem_ov1ng the dress-
ing. Iodoform should be discontinued when granulation sets In, and
boracic ointment used instead. The monkey should be kept In a cage
similar to that recommended for its transport, but smaller, and With
such modification of details as individual cases may require. An
arrangement for securing the patient within a smaller space Will be very
useful for dressing ill-tempered and intractable subjects. Th1s can.be
managed by having a piece of board placed InSIde the cage, breadthwrse,
so arranged that it can be drawn backward and forward as desrred.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The Rhesus and the Macaque monkeys have almost similar habits ;
they are gentle and playful creatures when young, but become sullen
and vicious as they grow old, especially the males. They pass most
of their time in alternate fighting and playing; after a violent quarrel
they change to the other extreme, and behave as if they were the
mildest of creatures. They may be frequently seen picking out the
parasitic vermin from one another’s fur, and the process appears to
be thoroughly enjoyed by the animal subjected to it, stretching itself as
it does in a lazy attitude on a perch or shelf. They fight most during
feeding time, if not checked by the keeper; but it is not easy, even
with close observation, to ascribe a cause for each particular skirmish.
The sudden violence of their fury is extraordinary. Animals at one
moment living in perfect amity and concord become in an instant
deadly foes, ready to tear each other to pieces. The weak or the sickly
and the new-comers fare badly. Monkeys of these kinds are proverbial-.-
ly mischievous: they constantly snatch away a stick or umbrella, or even
an eye-glass, and when attempts are made to recover the articles their
behaviour shows how they enjoy their mischief. Sometimes they appear
to rob visitors from simple curiosity and inquisitiveness, and not in a
wicked or mischievous spirit. They are also addicted to playing with
their drinking water and splashing it about. However quarrelsome and
mischievous they may be, these monkeys are generally submissive to
their keeper, having by experience learnt to dread his power; but should

 

26 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

a new keeper happen to enter their cage, he is likely to be attacked by
the whole troop, led generally by an aggressive old male. Keepers have
often been wounded in such outbreaks; but if they are firm and exhibit
no nervousness, the monkeys soon recognize their master and resume a
peaceful attitude.

Both the Rhesus and the Macaque monkeys are fond of water
and swim and dive well. A number Of young monkeys (M. rhesus
and M. cynomolgus) were at one time allowed to run loose in the
garden; they greatly enjoyed their freedom, and were often seen on a
sultry afternoon perched on one of the trees near the Serpentine lake,
and jumping one after another into the water and indulging in a swim.
On one occasion they appeared to be engaged in a regular diving match ;
they were divided into two parties, sitting on Opposite banks of a
narrow arm of the lake. Among their acts of mimicry and mischief
noticed from time to time the following may be mentioned. On one
occasion, one of them having noticed an official of the adjacent Mete—
orological Observatory in the act of taking some observation with the
aid Of certain instruments, proceeded stealthily to the observatory and
was seen deliberately to upset one of the instruments. On another
occasion one of them intruded into the drawing-room of a lady, then
living in the house next to the garden, upset an inkstand and spoiled,
it was said, some valuable documents. He did this, it was conjectured,
in iris uncouth attempt to imitate the lady whom he had observed
wn mg.

A monkey’s capacity for showing affection was exhibited in the
behaviour of one of a pair Of Rhesus monkeys from the Simla Hills
whose companion had been severely wounded and was therefore kept
confined in a small cage for treatment. While the patient was in this
condition, the one who was still at large and well was much concerned
and would sit almost the whole day by the side Of the cage and
affectionately caress the invalid in various ways through the bars.

(29) THE HIMALAYAN MONKEY.

(MACACUS ASSAMENSIS—Mcalelland.)

Descriptiom—An adult Himalayan monke is lar er the
Rhesus; head and body of a full-grown specigen about? 20 indhe:
tail about 9; fur .long, wavy and abundant; bare surface of the
seat smaller than In M. Rhesus; eneral colour of the body varies
from light to dark brown ; lower limbs paler; no reddish or yellowish
tinge 1n the hmder .parts ; .face dusky, and never assumes a rufous tinge
at any season. . The species may be mistaken at first sight for a M.
Rhesus from .Simla or the Naga Hills, as they both possess long and
abundant hair; but the tail in this species is somewhat smaller and
more slender than in the other.

H ab.—-The Himalayas, Assam and Upper Burmah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen obtained in April 1877 lived'to January '1880.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 27

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-As the Himalayan monkey is somewhat rare, it is
better not to place one, when obtained, with a number of Rhesus or
other monkeys of quarrelsome habits. On the other hand, it is equally
injudicious to keep a monkey by itself ; so that, if a pair be not avail-
able, a young M. Rhesus of a docile and tractable nature will suit as a
companion. It has been observed that, when kept singly, a monkey is
sometimes overrun by parasites, probably for want of the attention of
its friends which checks their growth.

Food and transport—In these matters it may be treated in the
same way as a Rhesus. The specimen that lived in the garden never
showed any partiality for animal food, in the shape Of eggs, insects or
minced meat.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A HIMALAYAN MONKEY.

A young Himalayan monkey is a sociable and affectionate creature,
receiving caresses and attention with sympathetic pleasure. It is heavy
and slow in its movements, and not given to those active sports in which
the Rhesus monkeys appear to be perpetually engaged. The specimen
that lived in the garden was in the habit of sucking its thumb, and
would move in a kind of rocking manner, accompanied by grins and
chuckles.

(30) THE BROWN STUMP-TAILED MONKEY.

(MACACUS ARCTOIDES-Is. Geofi‘r.)

Descriptiom—Larger than the Himalayan monkey, an adult ani-
mal standing nearly 2 feet hi h; thick-set in build; hair long and
abundant; hair of the crown slig tly parted in the middle, that about
the shoulder being wavy, and at the middle of the back parted; tail
very short, almost rudimentary; a large area of the seat is bare;
colour of the head and body dark brown; in young individuals the lower
limbs are paler; face red.

Hab.——-High country of Cochin-China, Yunan, Assam (Naga Hills)
and Eastern Thibet (Moupin). - -

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period duringrwhich an example of this species lived

in the garden was six years. he specimen now living in the collection

was obtained in 1888.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

As it resembles a Himalayan monkey in its habits, nothing need be
said with regard to housing, feeding, &c. ‘

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The only remark to be made is that the immediate cause of death
of members of both these species (216., the Himalayan and the stump-
tailed) was cold in the chest.

 

 

A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A STUMP-TAILED MONKEY.

In habits it resembles the Himalayan monkey very closely, having
_ the same slow and languid movements. It appears to lose much of the
red colour of its face when kept in a place where there is a want of
sufficient light. The specimen now in the garden is rather savage
in its disposition.

(31) THE LION-TAILED MONKEY.

(MACACUS SILENUS—Sclzreb.)

Hindi—Skid Bandar. Bengali—Nil Bandar.

Descriptions—A black-coloured monkey of a slender build. Its
chief features are its ruff of light-coloured hair on the chin, throat, cheeks,
and temples, encircling the head, and its tufted tail. The ruff does
not meet on the forehead. An adult monkey measures about 21 inches
(head and body) ; tail about 13 inches.

Hab.-—The forest of the Syhadri Range or Western Ghats near the
Malabar Coast from about 14° north to Cape Comorin, and at a

considerable elevation above the sea. Most common in Cochin and
Travancore.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An adult specimen lived for about six years in the garden, and
a pair of adolescent animals have been living since 1888.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—A dult lion-tailed monkeys are quite capable of defend-
ing themselves, and may therefore be kept, if necessary, with the Rhesus
and the Macaque monkeys. The younger ones are generally shy and
timid, and liable to be maltreated by others if kept with a number;
they should therefore be kept by themselves, or with other equally
harmless and timid animals. With respect to cold and warmth, they
should be treated in the same way as any other monkey of a delicate
nature. Although one of the adolescent monkeys now living in the
garden has not enjoyed first-rate health, no better accommodation than
the Gubbay House (see page 6) could have been provided.

Food.-—This monkey should be fed in the same way as other
monkeys of the same genus. The younger specimens need careful
feeding, as overfeeding has been found to cause flatulent indigestion.
It does not seem to care for animal food in any shape.

TREATMENT IN sIcKNEss.

The adult lion-tailed monkey, after having lived in good health
for about five years, had an attack of paralysis, from which it never
completely recovered. The symptoms were like those of shaking
palsy, which‘in human beings sometimes results from excessive drink-
ing. In attempting the slightest movement its limbs, body, and even
head, would shake. The animal was removed from the monkey-house

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 29

a d ke t in a dr and warm lace. No medicine was given internally.
Onne oflthe specigiens now hiring in the garden has had an attack Of
hcmz'plegia, from which it is slowly regaining health. The animal
was removed to the hospital and kept in a roomy cage With a thick
bedding Of straw and blanket : its vegetable food was stopped and the
animal confined to milk and bread diet; ra1s1ns, bOIIed onions, barley,
and eggs being given twice a week by way of change.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITs OF A LION-TAILED MONKEY.

The young lion-tailed monkey is a gentle, timid and inoffens1ve
animal. It does not appear to be as intelligent as many other members
of the same genus. Its chuckles are very subdued, and, though quick
in its movements, it is not much addicted to leaping and Jumping. 4n
Older animal is generally ill-tempered, and becomes almost. grey With
age. This at least was the case with the specimen that lived in the
garden for about six years.

(32) THE BURMESE PIG-TAILED MONKEY.
(MAOAOUS LEONINUS—Blyth.)

Description.—-Stout in build. An adult male measures, head and
body, about 23 inches; tail about 8 inches. The hair of the upper part
of the back and shoulders longer than that of the lower back and rump ;
head broad and flat about the forehead, rather tapering about the chin.
The thick bushy hair above the forehead is so arranged as to form a
horse-shoe shaped crest on each side of the median line. In some the
hair surrounding the head is so well developed and thick as to form a
kind of ruff, partially concealing the ears; tail short, about one-third
of the length of the body, and tapering; general colour dark to light
brown. The crest of the forehead, the lower part of the back about.
the middle line, dark brown; face dusky flesh colour. The females
are generally smaller and lighter coloured; the crest and ruff not
conspicuous. .

Hab.—-—Arracan and the valley of the Irrawadi.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A Burmese pig-tailed monkey has lived in the garden as many as
seven years. .

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—All the specimens hitherto exhibited in this garden
have been lodged in one or other of the cages kept outside the monkey—
houses. The adult monkeys have generally shown such bad temper
and aversion to their fellow-creatures that it has been found necessary
to keep them singly or in pairs. The great drawback, however, to
keeping these or other monkeys in such Isolated cages is the unavoid-
able absence of suitable arrangements for their protection from the .
risks Of a changing climate.

 

 

 

 

30 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Food and transport—With respect to food, it should be treated
like a Rhesus, except that none of these monkeys have ever been noticed
to care for animal food. A. good cage like that recommended for a
hanuman will do for the transport of a pair of them.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A BURMESE PIG-TAILED MONKEY.

Although sedate and slow, it is never morose. It soon learns to
obey its keeper and tO perform amusing tricks. One Of the monkeys
that lived some time in the garden was in the habit Of standing upon
all fours on the approach of visitors, and having made amusing
grimaces would suddenly turn in the Opposite direction, and so close the

performance.

(33) THE PIG-TAILED MONKEY.

(MAOAOUS NEMESTRINUS—(LinnJ )

Description—It closely resembles the preceding species, but differs
from it in the following respects : it is slightly smaller and a little more
slender in make ; its muzzle is much produced; it has no horse-shoe
shaped crest in front Of the crown above the forehead, and no ruff round
the head. The general colour of the body brown, having different shades
in diiferent parts of it ; crown of the head dark brown; a broad dark
brown band extends right down the middle Of the back; tail slender,
short, about one-third the length of the body, and generally twisted

like that of a domestic pig.
Bah—Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo and Java.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One of these monkeys has lived in this garden so long as eight
years; another for about four years. A young specimen obtained early
in 1889 has now passed into a healthy adolescent state.

Hoasing.--Some of the pig-tailed monkeys have been found to
agree very well with other monkeys. In this respect, therefore,
they are easier to accommodate than those which have to be kept
singly or in pairs. In regard to cold and damp they require the same
careful treatment as most other monkeys.

Food and transport—The same remarks that have been made with
regard to the preceding species apply to this also.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Paralysis, erysipelas and skin diseases have been met with amongst
the Specimens exhibited. The animal Obtained in 1876 was smitten
with paralysis. On the malady being detected, the creature was separated
from its companions and removed to a spacious cage and kept in a
dry place. N 0 treatment was adopted. After having suffered for about
six months the animal partially recovered. While suffering from
paralysis it became subject to an obstinate kind of skin disease, which?
, however, yielded to the persistent use of borax and sulphur. '

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 31

In 1882 an adult specimen succumbed to erysmelas brought on
by injury inflicted by its companion in the adjoining division of the .
same cage. The wound, which was on the dorsal surface of the right
foot, was, found to be neither deep nor extensive, so that no serious notice
Of it was taken, especially as the monkeys had been observed to recover
from severer and more extensive injuries without much suifering. On
about the third day the monkey was found dead early in the morning,
the immediate cause of. death being convulsions brought on by erg/si-
pelas which was not detected owing to the presence of the thick fur.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A PIG-TAILED MONKEY.

The pig-tailed monkey is an extremely amusing anima . Its varied
movements and antics, accompanied by absurd grimaces, which it is
impossible to reproduce in print, afford a perpetual source of merri-
ment. It appears to be a common habit with all the monkeys of this
Species to stand half erect on the approach of visitors, hold tight some
parts Of its lower limbs with each hand, protrude its lips and jerk its
head forward several times, and then suddenly turn round or move
a few steps to one side. There was once a pig-tailed monkey which
had the strongest Objection to the folding doors outside the bars of
its cage being shut by visitors, and would Open them as Often as they
were closed. As the folding doors were on both sides of the cage,
and visitors soon discovered the monkey’s weak point, it became a.
common practice to tease him by shutting the doors, or at least one of
them on one side Of the cage, while he rushed to open those closed on
the other side. Thus two visitors could keep him darting to and fro
until he became nearly frantic, and measures had to be adOpted to
protect him from such persecution. The adult monkeys are in the habit
of yawning constantly, exhibiting their formidable canine teeth.

(34) THE BONNET MONKEY.

(MACACUS SINICUS——(Linn.))

Descriptions—Slender in appearance. An adult male measures
about 19 inches (head and body) ; tail about 22 inches. Its distinguish-
ing mark is the hair on the crown Of the head, radiating from the -
centre. Colour—body brown; limbs paler; no reddish tinge in the
face or about the seat.

Hab.-—Southern India.

(35) THE TOQUE MONKEY.

(MAC A CUS PILEATUS -- (Sham) )

Descriptions—The hair of the crown radiating from the centre as
in the bonnet monkey is much longer. extending to the forehead to
nearly above the eyebrows. Colour slightly darker than in‘ M. Sinicus.

is

 

 

 

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«,y.m~m¥£WK‘V-D"u3 . ;~r

 

 

 

32 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

This species is readily distinguished from the preceding by the colour
of its lips (which are brownish black), and hence popularly designated as
“Mishi Bandar”* amongst the native keepers.

Had—Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Both the Bonnet and Toque monkeys have lived for about eight
years in the garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—The Bonnet and Toque monkeys have been successfully
kept with the Rhesus and Macaque monkeys, which they resemble in
habits and movements, so that the remarks made with regard to the
housing, feeding and transport of the latter apply to the former also.

Breeding.——The Bonnet monkey has bred in the garden, but the
young ones did not survive long. The want Of success in this respect
was attributed at the time to the smallness of their habitation.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

From the similarity of the habits and food of these and the Rhesus
and Macaque monkeys, it may be inferred that they are subject to the
same diseases also. There is no record of their ever having suffered
from any special ailments.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE BONNET AND TOQUE MONKEYS.

In habits they are similar to the Rhesus and Macaque monkeys,
though less quarrelsome and aggressive. The males Of both these
monkeys were found to be savage. They easily learn to perform tricks.
One of the Bonnet monkeys was extremely attached to its keeper, who
taught the animal to beg for food with folded hands.

(36) THE SACRED ABYSSINIAN BABOON.
(CYNOCEPHALUS HAMADRYAS—(Linn.) )

It is also called “DO -faced monke ,” “Arabian ba ”

“ Hamadryad monkey.” g y ‘hoon, and
Description.——A full-grown adult male is about 3 feet hi h w
standing erect. The face is long and naked, bearing a resgmblaliizg
to that of a dog, the snout' projecting. The hair of the head neck
and shoulders is long and abundant, and that of the lower part of
the body, from the loins downward, is short. The long hair of the
head, shoulders and the upper part of the bed , forming, as it were
a short cloak, gives a characteristic appearance to the animal. The

* Misfit-powder is a composition containing a large proportion of tannin, and used as tooth-

powder specially by a ortion of Indian women. It stains th ' - .
or rustyi tinge. P ‘ 0 hp 3 black "“11 9' fermBlDOtls

 

 

 

  

IN 'cArTIvITY IN LOWER BENGAL. . ‘33

colour of the body light grey or brown. The tail is abOut one-half the

length of the body and tufted. The female and the young animals

have no cloak of long hair. Bare area of the seat large and conspicuous.
Hab.—-—Abyssinia and Arabia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which an Abyssinian baboon has
lived in this garden has been 13 years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Tlie specimen just alluded to has always been kept in
one of the isolated cages by itself and has thriven excellently. This
may be owing to the hardy constitution of the animal, or to the fact of
its having become acolimatized. As a general rule, however, this kind
of monkey should be housed in the same way as other African
monkeys-that is, a dry, raised place should be assigned to it, and the
animal well protected from the extremes of temperature.

Food.-—An Abyssinian baboon thrives well on a vegetable diet
consisting of fruits, roots, grain, boiled rice, &c. It is not, however,
a strict vegetarian, being fond of grasshoppers and eggs; they have
been observed to pick up ants and put them into their mouth.

Breeding.—-This monkey has never bred in this garden.

It‘ansport.-—As some Of these baboons have been found to bite
through the woodwork of their cages, a light iron cage should be
provided when it is necessary to carry them a long distance. Under
ordinary circumstances the same instructions as have been given under
the Rhesus monkey will suffice.

TREATMENT IN sICKNESS.

None of the baboons that have lived in this garden have ever
suffered from any disease calling for special notice.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A SACRED ABYSSINIAN BAEOON.

The sacred Abyssinian baboon, or the Hamadryad monkey, is
intelligent, clever and sociable; it is as inquisitive as a Rhesus, but its
propensities to mischief are less. Though very active, it is not much
addicted to saltatory movements: like a human being, it will sit on a
raised place, and will make use Of a block Of wood or a piece of stone
for this purpose: one has been found to use its drinking vessel as a seat.
It has an expressive way Of calling people’s attention by a grunting
bark, and, when approached, of expressing its pleasure by a rapid
quivering Of its lips accompanied by low guttural sounds; if passed
by unnoticed, it becomes excited and screams and roars.

It has an equally expressive way of evincing its anger and distrust.
A female Hamadryad monkey once became much attached to a cat. A
male that lived for 13 years in the garden had a constitutional dread
of water, so that it could never submit to being sprinkled with it:
advantage was sometimes taken of this weakness to induce it to give

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34 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

up possession Aof a stick or an umbrella which it might have snatched

from a visitor. The adult females are at times too unsightly for ‘

exhibition. The males are apt to take passionate notice of female
visitors.

(37) THE CHACMA BABOON.

(CYNOCEPHALUS PORCARIUS—(Bodd) )

Description.-—This monkey is almost as large as an Abyssinian
baboon, which it resembles in general appearance. The distinctive
features of a Chacma are its longer muzzle, darker colour, and absence
of tuft to the tail. The colour of its body is uniformly dark brown,
nearly black in some individuals, mixed with a shade of light yellow.
In younger specimens the muzzle is not much produced.

Bah—West and South Africa.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No monkey of this species has as yet lived in the garden longer
than four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With respect to housing, feeding and transport, it should be treated
in the same way as an Abyssinian baboon.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The specimen that lived for four years died very suddenly one
morning, and the cause of death was never ascertained, so that nothing
can be said with regard to the diseases from which these animals suffer

in captivity. -
OBSERVATIONs ON THE HABiTs or A CHACMA BABOON.

The Chacma is as intelligent and clever as the . Hamadryad
monkey. Though it is generally playful .and sociable, its temper is
not to be trusted. The Uhacma kept in this garden once showed great
cleverness in breaking a portion of its cage with the help of an iron
scraper which it managed to obtain. It.eXh1b1t6d a singular habit
of never touching a plantain unless given With the peel on.

(as) THE MANDRILL.

(CYNOCEPHALUS MORMON—(Linn.) )

Descriptionn—A full-grown mandrill measures about 4 feet 6 inches
when standing upright. It resembles the other baboons. in general
appearance, but the principal features by which it is distinguished
from them are its peak-shaped crest on .the crown of the head,
the prominent swellings of its cheeks on either side ofthe nose, the

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 35

pointed amber-coloured beard, its projecting muzzle and large lips;
the most characteristic points are the swellings on either side of the
nose. They are obliquely ridged, and coloured alternately blue and
scarlet. The general colour of the body grey, washed with olive brown.
The tail is very short. The ridges on each side of the nose are not
coloured in young specimens.

Hab. —-West Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A young mandrill lived for three years and six months in the
garden, but this cannot be said to be the maximum period of its life
here, as the animal (having been on deposit) was removed after that
time.h An adult specimen, also on deposit, remained for about six
mont s.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

. Housing.-—-—The young mandrill was kept in one of the cages of the
Gubbay House, and the place appeared to suit it well, as the animal
had already grown considerably, and the colour of its cheeks begun to
appear when it was removed. The adult baboon lived, as a temporary
arrangement, in a large travelling cage, which was of the same style as
{hat recommended for the transport of an orang—outang, but slightly
arger. .

Food-The young mandrill throve well on the same diet as is
allotted to an orang or a hoolock, but the adult was a great epicure.
Its nourishment consisted of a pint of fresh milk and a loaf ofbread early
in the morning; boiled sweet potatoes, about half a pound, at 11
o’clock ; a handful of soaked gram and fruits at 2 P.M , a loaf of bread
again at 4 P.M., anda pint of Pilsener beer the last thing in the evening.
Little bits of meat were occasionally given which it relished. The
animal, it was said, had been accustomed to this kind of feeding from
an early age. '

With regard to breeding, transport and diseases in captivity, there
are no remarks to offer.

, OBsERVATIONs ON THEIR HABITs.

The young mandrill was gentle and inoffensive at first, but as it
grew in age and size it became mischievous and excitable. It was never
noticed to be fierce. It amused itself by snatching away bonnets and
umbrellas, and had a characteristic way of shaking its head and chuck-
ling, which unmistakably indicated pleasure. The adult was generally
grave and sedate, and would sit for hours together in one place. Some-
times, however, he became extremely excited, and on such occasions would
violently shake the cage. ' The approach of a horse and carriage made '
him angry. He became very restless in the evening, when the time.
for drinking beer approached. and his restlessness increased with any
delay in giving him the beverage.

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36 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(39) THE SQUIRREL MONKEY.

(CHRYSOTHRIX SCIUR BIA—(Linn) )

Descm’ption.——Head and body about 10 inches, tail about 14. The
little rounded head is much produced on the back; the colour of
the body grey, washed with olive ; that of the lower parts of the limbs
yellow tinged with red ; muzzle greyish black ; a broad area .round the
eyes flesh coloured and sparsely covered wrth fur; lower th1rd of the
tail black. '

Hab.——Guiana.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living in the garden since November 1888.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—It is kept in one of the small'movable cages inside the
Gubbay House, and the place appears to suit it .well. Thls‘llttlevcrea-
ture is very sensitive to changes of temperature, and it is therefore
necessary to protect it from sudden exposure to cold and draughts,
especially in winter; during that season the glassudoors of the house
are closed early in the evening and are not opened till the sun 1s well up
in the morning. A bedding of straw or hay adds much touts comfort.

Food—«Fruits, eggs, insects, minced meat, and occasionally milk

and bread.
OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

It is a gentle, harmless, playful creature and very affectionate,
likes to be spoken to, and appreciates kind attentlons ; 1t may he often

seen sitting with its tail curling forward and upward, so as to encircle

its own body in front ; its mode of eating has much resemblance to
that of a squirrel. It is sometimes allowed to come out of its cage,

but does not go far.

(40) THE WEEPER CAPUCHIN.
(CEBUS CAPUCINUS—Geqfl'r.)

Descm‘ptz'on.~The characteristic feature of this monkey is its prehen-
sile tail. lts colour is smoky brown, being darker on the t0p of the head.
Hebe—Brazil, ranging from Costa Rica to Paraguay.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair have been living in the garden since 1881.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-Kept in the Gubbay House in the same manner as the
Squirrel monkey.

Food.-— Fruits, vegetables, eggs, minced meat, and occasionally
grasshoppers, milk and bread.

IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. - 37

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The only ailment from which one (long since dead) has been
observed to suffer was fits, which lasted for about five minutes each
time. N 0 medicine was given internally, but, as the animal appeared
to have been rather fat, its food was reduced. N o autopsy having
been held after its death, the cause of the fits was not discovered.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F CAPUCHINS.

These monkeys may be seen constantly extending their slender arms
in expectation of something from persons approaching their cage.
Their manners at such times are extremely expressive of the earnestness
of their entreaties; they beg at all times, not only when they are
hungry. When food is given, they eat it, if hungry, but not,
however, without first carrying it up and down‘the cage for a few
seconds ; if not hungry, they smell or nibble at it, break it and throw
it down, and return to begging once more. They behave in the same
way with things other than food, examining them most attentively
and inquisitively. They become so tame that they can be safely let
out, and in such cases, instead of going far, generally cling to their
keeper. These monkeys become very impatient when they see the
keeper feeding the other animals in the same house, and may be
observed trying to call his attention by clanking the small chain and
padlock with which the cage is secured.

(41) THE COMMON MARMQSEI‘.

(HAPALE JACCHUS-(Linn.) )

Description.—-The size of the animal is about that of a grey squir-
rel. Its distinguishing features are its long, whitish grey hair on the
sides of the head, which conceals the ears, and its long, bushy and

ringed tail; its eyes are large and the nose flat.
Hula—Brazil.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which one has lived in the garden
has been about eighteen months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Like the squirrel monkey, the marmosets are very
sensitive to cold and draughts; their habitation therefore ought to be
such as to protect them from the risks of climate- During the cold
weather greater precaution is necessary. In addition to the straw or
hay bedding, they should have small bits of blankets, under which they
may retire of their own accord at night. These animals are extremely
shy, and one placed on arrival in a house containing other animals
generally refuses to eat, and runs the risk of starvation. Such an
animal should therefore be kept under Observation for some time, until
it becomes thoroughly accustomed to the altered conditions.

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38 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Food.-—Insects, eggs, milk, raisins, minced meat, bread and some-
times small birds. Bread and milk and either a few grasshoppers or
a boiled egg form their usual food in the garden.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A MARMOSET.

Their principal occupation consists .of jumping about from perch
to perch and climbing up and down the SIdes of the cage. They may be
sometimes seen nestling under the straw, or in the folds of their blankets.

(42) THE MONGOOSE LEMUR.

(LEMUR MONGOZ—(Linn.) )

Description—Its muzzle is produced and forehead flat and broad.
Eyes large; general colour reddish grey ; face black ; In some there Is
a band of iron grey colour across the forehead. Tall long and bushy.

Hab.-—Madagascar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a mongoose lemur has lived in
the garden has been upwards of eleven years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.———-Mongoose lemurs are kept in one of the movable cages
inside the Grubbay House. .

Feat—Fruits, eggs, bread and mIlk.

Breeding.——Lemurs have bred in the garden; they have only one
young at a birth. When the first event took place, the cage contain-
ing the mother and the young was removed to a secluded spot and
kept there for about three months until the young was able to shift for
itself ; the young one clung to the back of the mother for about 81X
months, coming down only when there was no one close by.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The maladies from which these animals have been noticed to suffer
are inflammation of the lungs ; congestion of the liver ; skin disease.
With the exception of the last, all of them proved fatal.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF LEMURS.

Lemurs are very sociable active creatures, constantly jumping
about or pacing their cages ; they carry their long bushy tails curved
forward over their back. They may constantly be seen in the act 'of
cleaning their fur. ~ . . .

Although nocturnal in habits in their WIld state, they have, .It
appears, adapted themselves to their changed circumstances and remaIn
generally awake and lively during the day. '

The other species of Lemur exhibited in the gardens are-—

(43) THE RUFFED LEMUR.

(LEMUR VARIUS—Geqfir)
Deseriptz'on.——Colour black, with grey whiskers.
Huh—Madagascar.

This animal has been lately acquired.

    

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(44) THE YELLOW FRONTED LEMUR.

(LEMUR FLAVIFRONS-G’my.)
Hab.-—Madagascar.

(45) GARNETTS’ GALAGO.
(GALAGO GARNETTI~( Ogilby.) ‘)

Description—Head and body about 10 inches, tail about 12. Its
colour 1s uniform, earthy brown, and hair woolly. Its eyes are large

and round ; the ears also are large and mobile. Tail long, cylindrical
and covered with woolly hair.
Ha6.—-East Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
One lived for about seven years in the collection.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-It was kept. in the Gubbay House. This animal sleeps
much during the. day ; It Is therefore necessary to keep it in a place
where It Is least likely to be disturbed by visitors. ' '

Facet—Frans, vegetables, raisins, milk, bread, eggs, and insects.
Its ordinary food consrsts of a boiled egg, two plantains and some

bread, once in the evening. It was never noticed to touch its food until
darkness had set in.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A GALAGO.

. The galago Is an uninteresting animal for visitors to a menagerie,
as It remalns quietly asleep almost the whole day; at night, however, it
becomes very lively. On awaking in the evening it attends to its
personal appearance and then eats its food, always selecting the

choicest things first and then drinks littl t ‘ '
almost the whole night. a e wa er, and remains lively

(46) THE SLOW LORIS.
(NYCTICEBUS TARDIGRADUS—(Lz‘mz.) )

.Descrz'ptionm—The size of this animal varies a great deal. Some
measure as much as 14 to 16 inches, head and body included; others
are smaller, being not more than 12 inches. A. close woolly fur
covers the whole body : the tail is so short that it is almost concealed
by. the fur. The colour also varies in different specimens; in some
It IS ashy grey above, and pale below, a brown stripe running down
the back from the crown to the loins; round the ears also. brown '
in others the colour is rufous grey above, and pale below, the dorsal
stripe broad and expanding into a patch on the crown.

There is another variety in which the stripe is rather indistinct on
the back, but is well marked about the nape, and it bifurcates on the
forehead, encircling the eyes. .

Huh—Assam, Sylhet, Run ore, Decca Chitta on B
Siam, Malacca, Sumatra, Java anngorneo. , g g, urmah,

  

 

 

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

One lived as many as ten years in the garden.
TREATMENT IN CAPTIVITY.

Housings-As the habits Of this animal are nocturnal, it should be
treated like a galago, and kept in a specially quiet place. If this is
impossible, a small box for the animal to retire during the day should
be provided.

Food.—-Eggs, small birds, fruits, bread, young shoots and leaves.
A boiled egg, two plantains, a little bread or biscuit soaked in a little
milk, constitute its ordinary diet. It is fed only in the evening.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A SLOW LORIs.

It sleeps the whole day, with the head downward, rolled up
almost like a ball. If disturbed it raises its head with a slow deliberate
movement, as if with great effort, opens its eyes for a moment,
utters a subdued crackling sound, and then rolls itself up again in the
same slow and deliberate manner. It becomes most active towards
evening when the time for feeding arrives, but its movements are always
slow and measured. It is very apt to bite when being caught. ’

(47) THE LION.

(FELIS LEO—Linn.)

Hindi—Sker—Bubbur. Bengali-Sing/za.

Lions vary a great deal in colour, size, and expression ; some have
a deep red chestnut-brown colour; others again are pale yellowish
brown. The colour of the mane also varies in different specimens:
in some it is a pale yellow; in others nearly black. Faint spots and
irregular bands may be seen on the stomach and sides Of adolescent
and adult animals: the lighter the colour Of the animal, the more
visible are these spots and bands. In some the muzzle is more pointed
than in others.

Huh—Africa and South-West Asia; Indian lions are now only
found in the Sir Forest in Kattywar, Bombay Presidency.

LENGTH. OF LIFE IN CAP'I‘IVITY.

The longest period during which a lion has been exhibited in
this garden is ten years; this, however, does not represent the maximum
length Of its life in captivity, as the animal was sent away in exchange
while still in the enjoyment of health and vigour. A pair of young
animals Obtained in 1884 have long since passed into the adult stage
and are still flourishing.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—The lions and other large carnivorous animals are kept in
the Burdwan House. It is a semicircular building, 250 feet in length
and 32 feet in breadth, divided into eleven double- chambered dens. one
in front Of the other. The. inner chambers, Of which the largest is 18 feet
by 12 and the smallest 15 by 12, are enclosed on all sides with solid brick

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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GARDEN —CALCUTTA.

ZOOLOGICAL

Survey of. lndm Offices.Calcuttaflanuary l83l.

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1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 41
walls, save where the doors open in front and behind. To give light
and air, there is a ventilator on the roof, secured with wrought-iron
bars and bolts. The outer dens, which are almost all of equal dimen-
sions, except the two at each end, are closed on three sides and on the
top with wrought-iron gratings, the fourth side being formed by the
front wall of the inner chamber. The wrought-iron gratings are made
of one inch thick rods; those for the front and sides being placed at an
interval of three inches apart: the rods are crossed and strengthened by
flat iron bars placed at an interval of two feet from each other. A door-
way, closed by a suspended grating, communicates between the inner
and the outer dens ; there is similar lateral communication between the
front dens. To prevent the animals from fighting through the bars while
in the outer dens, the gratings separating them have been lined with
planks.‘ To enable the keepers to get access to the dens for the purposes
of cleaning and other work, a man-hole has been provided on the top
of each cage. A broad verandah runs along the southern front of
the house. Inside each inner den is a wooden platform for the
animals to sit or lie upon, and a zinc vessel for drinking-water is clamped
on to the grating of the door at the back of the inner chamber.

During the winter all the animals are shut into their inner apart-
ments every night, and are let out to the outer dens much later in
the morning than at other seasons. A small quantity of straw is
also given them in the outer dens in this season, so that they may sit
or lie upon it instead of on the bare cold floor. In the summer and
during the rains, unless the day is exceptionally wet, the doors between
the inner and outer dens are left open, so that the animals may pass in
or out as they wish.

The two sets of dens at the east end of the house are generally
assigned to the lions. There is every possibility that a place where
a number of large carnivora are 'kept will become dirty and the
atmosphere around it ofi‘ensive, unless cleanliness is thoroughly and
constantly attended to. Early every morning, therefore, the outer
dens are swept clean and a weak solution of carbolic acid or phenyle
is sprinkled wherever sweepings have to be removed. The animals are
then turned out of the inner dens, and, unless the morning is very cold
or heavy rain has fallen, these dens are thoroughly washed out, and in
cold weather the straw bedding is changed ; at about 10 o’clock in the
morning the animals are shut in and the outer dens are washed clean :
by about 11, when the floors have dried, the grated doors are raised,
so that the animals may pass to and fro at pleasure. A jemadar
patrols the house always, and the rule is that sweepings should be
removed without delay and the carbolic solution applied.

Twice a month all the dens are washed with soap and water. It
is also of importance, as a sanitary precaution, to whitewash the walls
of the inner dens whenever they become dirty or when a death takes
place in any of them. . . .

Food—Beef forms the principal food of the 110118 as well as of
the other large carnivora. ‘ If the meat is good, a daily allowance
of 12 to 14 pounds, including the bones, is enough for a full-
grown animal; as, however, good beef is dear, and not always obtainable,
thequality has to be made up in quantity, and as much as 16 to 18

  

42 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

pounds may be given. At this rate the feeding of each lion costs
from Rs. 10-8 to Rs. 12 per mensem. For young lions half the
quantity is enough, but the amount should be increased proportionately
with the creature’s growth. When the necessity for a change of diet
is indicated by the aversion of an animal for its usual food, a live kId
or fowl or mutton should be substituted for its ordinary diet. Young
animals should have live food given them oftener than the older
animals. The appetite varies in these as in other creatures. Almost
every day a small quantity of fresh doob grass should be given ; when
chewed and swallowed this acts as an emetic.

Breeding—Lions have not hitherto bred in this garden, but every
facility is afforded and hopes of eventual success are entertained.

The transport of such a valuable and intractable animal
requires careful preparations. A light and strong cage is, the prin-
cipal requisite; one 7 feet long, 5 feet broad, and 4 feet 6 inches
high should be provided for a full-grown lien, or a pair of young
or adolescent animals. It should be made of three quarters of an inch
wrought-iron rods placed at an interval of three inches, and let into a
frame of teak wood scantlings. Inside the rods, the two sides and the
back end of the cage should be lined with half-inch thick teak or jarul
planks, closely joined together, as otherwise the animal will be in a
constant state of unrest from various causes of excitement at the
different stages of transit ; a removable shutter should also be provided
for the front of the cage for use when it is very cold or in bad
weather. An iron vessel, say 12 inches long by 9 inches by 4 for
drinking-water should be introduced through a space left below the
bars in front of the cage, and clean water in sufficient quantity given
several times during the day, especially after feeding. If lions are
sent by sea, the best arrangement for feeding them during the voyage
is to send a number of sheep, at the rate of one sheep for two days
for each animal, allowing for fasting every seventh day.. A sheep
weighing from 201bs. to 801bs. can probably be had for Rs. 3-8 to
Rs. 4 in the local market.

The transfer of a lion from its den to a travelling cage and
vice eersd is a difficult part of the transport operations. The usual
method is to keep the animal without food for twenty-four hours and
then decoy it into the travelling cage, which is placed with food in it
against the door at the back of the inner den. This plan, however,
has been found to fail as often as it succeeds. The animal sometimes
refuses to move from the corner of the den to which it betakes itself:
or it may show great restlessness for food ”and walk up and down in
front of the door, but still decline to enter the cage. If there is no
particular reason for haste, the best course is to watch and wait, until
at night the animal advances cautiously to steal away the food and can
then be encaged. But in urgent cases, where the animal exhibits an
unwillingness to move, or to be decoyed, summary means have to be
adopted to evict it by fear. It can be frightened by crackers, or a
cold water douche, while the introduction of planks inside the den will
prevent it from lurking in the corners. On one occasion an ingenious
and easy plan was found to succeed with a most refractory animal;
a broad plank with hideous and nondescript figures painted upon it with

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. , 43

chalk and coal tar was introduced into the den—the lion fled before it
through the open door into the cage outside.

TREATMENT IN SICKN Ess.

The diseases from which lions have been observed to suffer in this
garden are paralysis, congestion of the lungs, dysentery and diarrhoea.

A pair of Indian lions obtained towards the latter end of 1877
became paralysed soon after their arrival. The origin of the malady
was never exactly discovered : perhaps their long confinement in a
small cage and the exposure incidental to a long voyage by sea round
India may have rendered them liable to the attack. 'When the
symptoms of paralysis first appeared, every precaution was taken to
keep them dry and warm, and, as the animals were young and not at
all intractable, anodynes in the shape of camphor and soap liniments
were freely rubbed over their limbs with the help of a short mop. No
medicine was given internally in the first stage. Live food was given
them every day with a view to give tone to their systems. As the
malady became alarming, strychnia in i grain doses was given morning
and evening, but without effect. In spite, however, of careful treatment
and nursing, their condition gradually became worse, so that to put an
end to their troubles they were shot.

In September 1880 a young lioness died from congestion of both
lungs. Early one wet morning the animal was found lying almost
senseless near the door at the back of the inner den, breathing hard and
foaming from the mouth. Poultices and fomentation were alternately
applied on the chest, carbonate of ammonia and chloric ether in vinegar
being internally given every two hours. The animal being exception-
ally tame and the sharp attack of the illness having prostrated it greatly,
there was no difficulty in administering the medicine ; all that was
necessary was to slightly lift up its head and pour down the medicine
from a small bamboo pail. At one time some hope of its recovery was
entertained, but towards the end of the night it became worse and
died next morning after having suflered for nearly 24 hours. A
post-marten: examination revealed extensive congestion of both the lungs
brought on by a sudden draught which had probably entered through the
latticed shutter of the back door. As a precaution against a repetition
of the same disaster, the shutters were all boarded up, and not a single
case of sudden death from lung disease has taken place since.

Lately a lion died from dysentery. N 0 medicine was given
internally, but the beast was fed on live food, until at last it refused to
take nourishment in any form. The animal lived for about 17 days
without food.

Sometimes wounds and injuries received accidentally or in fighting
give trouble. A young male lion was lately injured in transit by rail
from Jconaghur (in Kattywar) to Calcutta, and the severe inflammation
.which supervened involved one of the eyes also. As the animal was

- not amenable to treatment by hand, all that could be done was to apply

constantly a weak solution of corrosive sublimate (1 in 1,000) with a
garden syringe until the inflammation subsided and the wound
healed up. The wound, however, broke out again owing to the irrita-
tion caused by constant rubbing of the forehead against the iron rods

 

  

  
 
   
   
  
  
  
  
   
 

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44 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

in front, so that to ensure radical cure the animal had to be kept shut
up in the inner den while the treatment was continued.

A LIONESS KILLED BY A TIGER.

On the arrival of a pair of adult lions at the garden. they
were placed together; as they began to fight it was considered
dangerous to leave them in the same den. They were, therefore,
temporarily kept apart, the lioness being accommodated in the
front portion of the next lateral compartment of the building, in
the back portion of which a tiger was securely confined; the latter
showed no tendency to be excited. All being satisfactorily arranged
the jemadar was allowed to absent himself for a short time, leav1ng
two garden keepers in charge with strict injunctions that no change

should be made during his absence. Shortly afterwards a great'

noise was heard in the direction of the carnivora house, and it
was found that the grating door between the two compartments in
which the lioness and the tiger had been separated was raised, so
that they had come together. The lioness was seen to be dying from
injuries inflicted by the tiger; one of the keepers had fled and has
never reappeared. A visitor who was present at the time said that the
keeper who was missing had volunteered to raise the grating and allow
the animals to meet in order to settle a dispute between the keepers
regarding the age and strength of the lioness.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF LIONS.

Young lions have sometimes been found to be very tame. A male
obtained from Mesopotamia in January 1878 was so good tempered
that it allowed itself to be led about the garden with a collar
and chain; during the day it remained tied up to a pole under the
shade of a tree, and at night slept in a room adjoining that of its
keeper. As, however, the beast was fast growing, it was thought undesir-
able to keep it outside, and it was therefore placed in one of the dens of
the Burdwan House (see pages 40-41). It remained comparatively tame
until it left the garden in 1887. It appeared to recognize persons, and
evinced pleasure at being caressed and stroked through the bars. The
animal had become much attached to a particular keeper, whose voice
and presence it recognized some four or five years after he had left the
service. A young lioness received from the same place was also very
tame, and continued so till the end of her short life in this garden.
The behaviour of even the tamest lion seems to change, for the moment,
at the sight of cattle or a horse. It becomes inordinately excited,
walks with nimble steps, follows the direction taken by the cattle or horse,
stopping as they stop and moving as they move, rattling the rods of
the grating in its quick and excited movement; new crouching down
and again springing up as if ready to pounce upon something, the eyes
glaring all the while and fixed steadfastly on the object of its attention.
At the approach of feeding time lions generally become excited, and
their excitement and impatience reach a climax when the bucket
containing the food is placed near the den preparatory to distribution;
they may be seen clawing at the bars, and in their excitement
leaping sideways over one another. Live food, as already mentioned,

 

 

 

 

  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. ' 45

is sometimes given to these animals, and it has been observed in
this connection that all of them are not equally adept in killing their
prey. The tame lion spoken of before held its prey, a kid or a sheep,
by the loins, causing it much unnecessary pain and suffering, and
otherwise behaved as a most inexperienced beast of prey; whereas
another would kill its victim in skilful style, holding it by the throat,
and showing great ferocity, excitability and quickness in the operation.
Tame lions, which joyfully respond to the attention paid to them,
have been found to become cross and irritable at certain seasons. Lions
are more noisy than tigers, roaring chiefly in the evening, towards the
latter part of the night and in the morning. Circumstances apparently
trivial sometimes affect an animal in a most extraordinary and
unaccountable way : the old block of Wood inside the den of the pair of
full-grown lions having become worn-out and thin, a much larger and
heavier one was substituted; the lion smelt, examined, and seized it,
remained crouching close to its possession, and growled fiercely at every-
body who attempted to approach the cage, even resenting the near
presence of the female with savage ferocity; it would not stir from the
place, so that it was impossible to clean the cage. For further informa-
tion regarding Lions, Blanford’s Fauna of British India-Mammalia,
and Elliot’s Monograph of Felidae may be consulted.

(48) THE TIGER.
(FELIS TIGRIS—Linn.)
Hindi—Sher, Brig/z. Bengali—Bdglz.

Tigers are subject to great variations in form and colour. Those
from the Bengal Sunderbnns have generally a darker ground colour
than the denizens of the hill ranges of Central and Southern India:
the Malayan tigers again are darker even than those from the Sunder-
bnns. Some have larger ears with proportionately larger ear spots
(white patches outside each ear) : the size and form of the head also vary
according as the convexity of the forehead and the facial portion is less
or more prominent, and the skull bread or narrow. The females are
more slender and elongated in form than the males, which are generally
heavier in build.

Hab.—-—The tiger is only found in Asia, and is distributed through-
out India, Burmah, South-Eastern Asia, Java and Sumatra; and also
throughout China. ,,In Central Asia it is found in the valley of the
Amur, the Altai mountains, around Lob Nor in Eastern Turkestan,
and on the southern shores of the Caspian. In India it is not confined
to the plains only, but is found in the Himalayas, though probably not
at a higher altitude than 7,000 feet. Tigers have been received in this
garden from the following places :-—-'l‘he Sunderbuns, Dacca, Mymen-
singh, Tipperah, Rungpore, Malda, Hazaribagh, Ranchi, Sonthal
Pergunn ahs, Gya, Durbhunga, Dumraon, Mirzapore, Allahabad, Bijnour
(N crth-VVestern Provinces), Travancore (Southern India), Ganjam
(Madras), Sumatra, Malacca. '

LENGTH. OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a tiger has lived in this garden
has been fourteen years. One of a pair of man-eating tigers obtained
in 1878 is still alive, and, though old, is in excellent health.

 
 

  

  

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—--As all the larger carnivorous animals are kept in
separate lateral compartments of the same house, the remarks which
have been made with regard to the housing of a lion apply generally
to a tiger also, with such modifications of detail as individual cases
may require. Newly captured beasts, for instance, give trouble by
refusing to come out during the day, and thereby render it impossible
to clean their dens at the appointed hours. This difficulty may be
overcome by shut-ting out the beast at night, when it quietly issues

forth from the inner chamber to take the food left in the outer den. ‘

If the animal is only shy, but not ferocious, it should be kept out
for a day or two or till such time as it becomes absolutely necessary
to clean the place. The case is, however, otherwise with ill-tempered
and savage beasts. If kept out during the day, they have been known
to dash against the bars of the cage with such violence as to mark and
injure their foreheads.

Food.—-In respect to feeding also the tiger should be treated like
a lion, allowance being, of course, made for any individual taste
and idiosyncracy. The garden possessed at one time a tigress which
had an insurmountable obj ection to eating beef. This was attributed to
its early habits and dieting on goats’ meat. All the larger carnivorous
animals are fed once a day, namely, between 5-30 and 6 P.M. during
the summer, and between 4 and 4-30 P.M. in the winter. Growing
animals or those that are out of condition are fed twice. Once a week
they are either starved or kept on half diet, and experience has shown
that this system is beneficial to their health. They sometimes volun-
tarily abstain from food for three or four days without suffering in the
least. On such occasions, as has been already remarked, some change
should be made in their diet to sharpen their appetites. Having
finished their meal, the carnivora drink the water which is always kept
in their inner chambers. It is necessary to be very particular in
providing good and sufficient water, as they drink much and often.
Flowers of sulphur are occasionally given them either in their food or
in their water. Sometimes a small lump of it is kept in their drinking
vessel. Sulphur acts as a tonic for almost all animals in captivity.

. It is necessary to mention here that the buckets used for distribut-
ing the food to these animals and the trays used for conveying the
meat from the slaughter—house should be washed every day with soap
and water, as otherwise they become not only dirty, but offensive to
the smell, tainting the meat.

Breeding.——Tigers have several times bred in the garden. The
first event took place in May 1880——the female of the man-eating
tigers obtained in 1878 giving birth to three cubs. The interval
between the delivery of the first two cubs was only half an hour, and
that between the second and third an hour and a half. No prepara-
tions had been made, and even the obvious measure of removing the
male had not been adopted. This, however, was carried out as soon
as possible, and should always be done, as the males of some of the
mammals, and of Fetidce in particular, have a decided propensity in some
cases to devour their offspring. To ensure perfect solitude and stillness
at a time when the ti gress was naturally irritable, the cage was barricaded

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.. 47

in front and behind, and darmak screens were put up 'against the
iron gratings in front. To avoid giving her any cause of annoyance,
the cleaning of the cage, however necessary, was held in abeyance for
some time, only the remnants of food and sweepings were occasionally
removed with care from outside. ‘

In about three weeks the young creaturesbegan to move about
freely, rendering it necessary, the darmalz screen having been already
removed, to enclose the front of the cage up to a certain height with
wire so as to prevent their tumbling out through the bars. The third
cub, which had been in a weak state of health since its birth, died at a
month old. The two survivors throve well under careful management.
When about four months old they were separated from their mother
and from that time were fed chiefly on live food for about three
months more. To this judicious feeding was mainly due the healthy
condition to which they attained.

Two cubs born to a young tigress in May 1886 unfortunately
survived only six days. In April 1889 the same tigress gave birth
to two cubs, which have enjoyed excellent health. The cubs were
allowed to remain with their mother longer than those born in 1880.
It was interesting to observe the behaviour of the tigress towards her
offspring at the different stages of their growth. When the cubs were
three months old the mother showed great solicitude in -watching
their infantile efforts at eating the small quantities of fresh mutton
given them as food, but her behaviour towards them soon altered, so
that, when they were five or six months old, she invariably quarrelled
with them at feeding time, until it became necessary to separate them
permanently. This tigress being an extremely nervous animal, the
darma/i screen had to be kept up for about five months. The period
Of gestation in this case was 106 days. ’

Transport.—-—The observations recorded with reference to the
transport of lions apply to tigers as well. On several occasions a
splendid tiger has reached the garden in a maimed condition, either
having broken a tooth or received wounds on its body. This is liable
to occur when the construction of the cage is defective. In examining
the cause of the loss of a canine tooth of a large tiger it was found that
the hoop iron bands with which the battened cage was bound inside
were torn to pieces, and the broken tooth was fixed like a wedge between
one of the corner posts and a piece of iron band still attached to it by
a large projecting nail. Such a case shows how essential it is, before
sending an animal on its journey, to see that the cage is free from nails or
projections which may endanger life or limb; the better plan, however,
is to send one of the travelling cages for the conveyance of the beast.

TREATMENT IN sICKNEss.

Tigers have been observed to become subject to rheumatism, fatty
degeneration, intestinal worms, tam-oars, growth of nail into the flesh
of the pad, epilepsy, and other complicated diseases.

Rheumatism is probably brought on by the animals constantly
lying on the cemented floor of the den ; their liability to this complaint
has, however, been reduced to a minimum by the simple plan of giving
each animal a platform to sleep upon. It is, of course, impossible to
compel an animal to make use of the platform when provided, and

 

 

 

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48 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

there have been refractory and stupid animals which would persist in
lying on the floor.

Adiposz’ty has sometimes proved fatal. A nearly full-grown male
having died rather suddenly in October 1885, a post-mortcm examination
was held, which showed that almost all the viscera of the animal were
embedded in masses of fat. This was no doubt caused by over-feeding
and want of exercise.

A nail sometimes grows into the flesh of the pad, which festers,
unless it is cut and removed in time. This happened to an old man-
eating tiger, rendering the animal lame and miserable for some time.
To facilitate the operation of cutting the nails a special cage was built
with a proper device of a moveable frame inside the cage, for securing
the animal within a small space : the operation was then performed and
the wound dressed. In about ten days the animal was completely
cured. The best way, however, to prevent claws from growing in is to
put a log of wood in each cage so that the animal may scratch it when-
ever it likes.

Worms sometimes prove very troublesome to these beasts. When
they are noticed or susPected a dose or two of santonine (grs. 4 to 5 in
each) will be effective. The easiest method of administering santonine
is to mix it with double or treble the weight of flowers of sulphur. and
give it concealed in a'small piece of meat when the animal is hungry.
It is better to do so on a fasting day, as the animal should have no
food for about twelve hours before and after the santonine is given.
A small lump of black salt may be left inside the den, and if the
animal licks it the action of santonine is hastened.

Tigers have sometimes been observed to suffer from tumours or
swellings at the joints, but the nature of these growths has never been
ascertained. '

The following report of an autopsy performed upon the body of a
tigress which died in November 1878 from the efiect of some lingering
illness (of which no accurate diagnosis could be made) shows that
these animals in captivity sometimes die of complicated diseases :--

“ Heart and lungs healthy, liver slightly congested, gall bladder full

of bile, and hepatic duct obstructed towards its termination. In the
intestines there was a constriction about three inches above the rectum,
and about an inch and a half above it, the mucous lining presented a
thickened appearance. On opening this, small pieces of bone were found
in different stages of disintegration impacted in an ulcerated surface.
The kidneys were abnormally large, the cortex peeling off on being
touched ; on opening them longitudinally patches of hardened granular
deposits were found all over the surface. Right ureter about three and
a quarter inches below the kidney was also full of the deposit.”

An adolescent tigress has lately become subject to a kind of fits,

which come on every second or third day, sometimes oftener: for the.

moment its limbs become paralysed and the whole body convulsed.
The nature of the disease has not been determined. (This animal having
since died, an autopsy was held and its stomach and intestines were
found to be full of small round worms.) '

‘ Several cases of severe wounds have occurred among the tigers in this
garden, but almost all of them have recovered under careful treatment.
The general principle observed in the treatment of their wounds

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 49

and injuries is to prevent their getting fly-blown, and with this object
a weak solution of corrosive sublimate (1 in 1,000 or 1,500) is con-
stantly applied by a garden syringe. Where the patient is tame or
young it is taken out and kept in a cage, and the wound dressed several
times during the day, so long as granulation does not set in.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF TIGERS.

Tigers differ in temper and habits as much as they do in their
external appearance. Some are comparatively good-tempered, others
cross and sulky. Those brought up in captivity are generally milder
in disposition, and are sometimes tame enough to allow the keepers
and others to handle them, but their temper can never be absolutely
trusted. It is a marked peculiarity of tigers that even the tamest
become savage at feeding time. An instance, on the other hand, is
known of a tigress dropping the food which it had in its mouth
and hastening to receive the caresses and attentions to which it was
accustomed almost every morning. As specimens for exhibition in a
menagerie, tigers which are not shy and do not object to visitors stand-
ing near the cage are always more valuable than newly-caught beasts,
which being wild and timid can seldom be seen to advantage. They
either pass their days in the inner den, or, if shut out, lie motion~
less in one corner of the den, or remain in a chronic state of fury and
alarm. Some take a long time to become accustomed to their altered
situation, others soon become reconciled to their new surroundings.
Some tigers have been found to be in a very nervous state on arrival,
and remain so for a long time; others never become habituated to
captivity at all. One of two ti resses from Ranchi simply starved
herself to death, although everyt ing possible was tried to induce her
to eat and take to her new home. Her companion, who was equally
alarmed at first, and. for whose life also very slender hopes were enter-
tained, at last yielded to the temptation which live kid and fowl daily
offered. Apparently trivial cases sometimes frighten an otherwise
tame tiger. A perfectly tame young tiger was living in the garden
some time ago; the animal having been in the habit of lying on the
wet floor of the outer den every morning, it was decided to place a
wooden platform there, in addition to the one already provided in
the inner chamber. Although there was nothing peculiar about the
new platform, which had been made in the same style as the one it
was accustomed to sleep upon every night, the sight of it appeared to
fri hten the poor animal out of its senses : it became terribly alarmed
an jumped about the cage in great excitement, till at last it rushed
with tremendous force into the inner compartment, from which it did not
emerge for several days. When the platform was removed the animal
became quiet again. Even the most ferocious tigers are great cowards,
so that they soon begin to dread the cane and recognise its authority. A

Tigers often fight each other through the bars which separate
their outer dens. Serious consequences having sometimes resulted from
some of these quarrels, the grated partitions were at first boarded
up to about 3 feet 6 inches from the floor. This was, however,
insuflicient to check their pngnacious propensities effectually. Being
determined to fight, they would manage it either by standing on their
hind legs or sometimes by suddenly jumping up. against the gratings

I)

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50 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

and clawing each other through .the upper bars, the narrow ledge
formed by the cross flat bars givmg them a temporary support. It
was therefore found necessary to complete the boarding almost to the
top of the cage. Tigers are less noisy than. lions. Their call, whlch Is
a deep prolonged growl, is generally heard 1n the evening.

Anecdote.

The escape of two tigers is worthy of mention. On the 23rd
January 1877, two ti ers escaped at about 6 P.M. from the Burdwan
House while some of. tie officers connected with the garden were stand-
ing in front of one of the dens. The keepers, who were on the roof of
the house engaged in raising the gratings to let the animals into their
inner dens, first noticed the escape. The officers rushed to the oppomte
end of the building to verify the fact, and having ascertained its truth
beat a rapid retreat towards the nearest bird-house, and thence towards
the entrance gate, discussing the steps to be taken for keeping the animals
within the garden enclosure during the night and securing them, 1f pos-
sible, in the morning. It was decided‘to keep the roadside lamps of the
garden burning and to maintain perfect silence inside the garden, so as
not to disturb or terrify the beasts. The news of the escape soon spread
in the neighbourhood; the shops were closed and the bazars presented
an unusually deserted appearance early that night. Meanwhile at
the request of the Commissioner of Police, to whom a report had been
conveyed, a company of sepoys of the regiment stationed in the imme-
diate neighbourhood was turned out to form a cordon round the garden,
with orders to continue shouting and yelling the whole night. This plan
succeeded admirably. The tigers remained inside the garden and
abstained, while at large, from killing or molesting a single animal,
although they had ample opportunity of doing so. This unexpected
moderation on their part may be ascribed to their freedom from hunger,
as they had been fed immediately before the escape, or more probably
to their astonishment and alarm at the novelty of their situation. In
their rambles one of the tigers twice passed quite close to the Superin-
tendent of the garden, who was seated in the small ticket office made
of durmah mats only——-there was no entrance-lodge then—to keep
himself informed of the movements of the beasts, with the help of the
two keepers watching them from the top of the Burdwan House, It
was a clear moon-lit night, and the trees and shrubs in the garden were
then still small. About midnight both the tigers retired inside
the walled enclosure (to the west of the Burdwan House) which was
at that time unoccupied. Hopes were then entertained of securing
them in the morning, and, everything considered, the position of the
house at one corner of the enclosure with sliding doors, the height
of the wall (7 feet as it was then) and the nature of the beasts, there
would have been a good chance of capturing them. The Commis-
sioner of Police, however, decided in the interests of the public safety
to run no further risks, marshalled his forces on the roof of the Burd-

wan house at 5 A.M., and at the third volley the beasts fell. This is i

the only tiger-shooting on record so near to Calcutta.
Enquiry was, of course, made as to the cause of the escape. The
Burdwan House had not then been finished, and it transpired that the

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 51

masons, who had been engaged in the inner dens that day had, when
they stopped work in the evening, left the back doors of two of the
inner compartments open. The keepers who were then inexperienced
and untaught did not notice the open doors as they ascended to the
roof, so that on reaching the top they raised the gratings as usual to
allow the tigers to retire into their sleeping dens, and the tigers had
nothing to do but to walk straight out of the cages by the back way.

(49) THE LEOPARD.

(FELIS PARDUS—Linn.)

Hindi—Kendra; Bagh. Bengali-Obits Bagh.

The leopard is well known in Lower Bengal. Its size is variable,
some specimens being as large as 8 feet from the tip of the nOse to
the end of the tail ;. another animal of the same age, however, may.
measure much less. The height at the shoulder also varies from 1 foot
6 inches to 2 feet. Three varieties of leopards have been received
in the garden. The largest in size has a comparatively short tail, and
clearly marked spots on a pale ground colour ; it has a broad head,
and in many specimens the fold of skin at the throat presents the
appearance of a dewlap. The smaller variety has a comparatively
long tail, and a decidedly rounded head ; its limbs are short, approach-
ing, in this respect, to the jaguar’s, but wanting the robustness of the
latter. The third is from Africa, and has an albescent ground colour;
the spots are also very clearly, defined. To these may be added the
black variety of leopard, of which the spots are distinctly visible
through the black ground colour which is deep in some specimens and
light in others. The young leopards are of a dirty brown colour and
the spots are not well marked; this is partly due to the fur being very
rough in the young ones. ‘

Hab.-—India generally, Malayan peninsula, Java, Sumatra, Burmah,

Northern China, Persia, Africa generally. Leopards have been re?

ceived in the garden from the following places: Dacca, Mymensingh,
Tipperah, Barisal, J essore, Buxa Dooars, J ulpigori, Kuch Behar,
Assam, Rungpore, Dinagepore, Rajshahye, Nuddea, Moorshedabad,
Malda, Purneah, Bhagulpore, Beerbhoom, Sonthal Pergunnahs, Midna-
pore, Orissa, several districts of Behar, Rajputana, Oudh, North-
Western Provinces, and East Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period of life of a leopard in this garden has
been fourteen years. An adolescent leopard obtained in 1876 died in
April 1890. Those that once overcome the nervousness due to the
new surroundings amidst which they find themselves on arrival
generally do well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——As a rule all the adult leopards are kept in one or other
of the double-chambered dens of the Burdwan House, and are treated
in the same manner as the lions and tigers. Half a dozen of them

n2

 

i

4 can" W- m:?rmvmnnwm~vuw wanna...

 

 

52 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

generally live together in one set of dens, the black leopards being
always lodged separate from the others. New arrivals, when very
young, are mostly accommodated in small cages and kept inside the
hospital or some other suitable place. .» .

Too much care cannot be bestowed in securing them in their
prison, as they have a wonderful capacity for escaping through small
spaces and climbing to incredible heights to find means of ex1t. The
rods of the iron gratings of their dens ought not to be more than
three inches apart anywhere, either in the front, or sides, or the top.
As leopards are, when at liberty, in the habit of climbing trees, stout
ramified trunks have been placed in their outer dens, and the animals
have been constantly observed extended at full length along a branch,
or curled up in a fork.

Food-Six pounds of beef, including bones, suffice for the daily
food of an adult leopard, and at this rate an animal’s food costs
about Rs. 6-12 per month. But the appetite of individual animals
varies, so that it is impossible to lay down a hard-and-fast rule in this
respect. There have been leopards which would eat as much as 8
pounds. Leopards, with the rest of the animals in the same house, are
fed in the evening at the hour indicated on page 46. As more than one
pair generally live together in the same set of dens, some of them are
shut into the inner, and others left out in the outer den during feeding-
time to prevent their quarrelling over the food. Leopards do not
appear to drink as much and as often as tigers. Pariah dogs were,
at one time, tried as food for the leopards, but though, in their wild
state, they are accustomed to kill dogs for food, the same diet did not
appear to agree with them in captivity; so that the idea of feeding
them on dog’s flesh had to be abandoned. Those that are sent to the
garden after having been kept as pets have to be fed upon boiled meat,
at least for some time after their arrival. Either they altogether
refuse to eat raw meat or it disagrees with them.

Transport—All that has been said with regard to the transport
of a lion or tiger applies to a leopard also. As, however, the leopard is
a much smaller animal, the travelling cage should be proportionately
diminished. Greater precautions are necessary in transferring a leopard
from its den to the travelling cage. Whoever superintends the oper-
ation should satisfy himself that the cage is firmly placed against
the door of the den, and that there are no spaces whatever between the
cage and the door so as to allow the beast to escape into the open; it is
incredible, as intimated above, through how small a space and how
stealthily a leopard can manage to escape. If (as for instance, at the
Calcutta garden, when the sliding wooden protector, which is outside
the grated door of the den, is raised) a space is left between the cage
and the wall of the den, this should be closed in also. because the
leopard on stepping out from the den (or the travelling cage, as the
case may be), generally looks up and, if it finds an open space above,
is sure to climb up with a view to escaping. Leopards are sometimes
sent from the interior of the country in bamboo or old ricketty cages.
This 1s a specially dangerous method of transport, as the cage is
subjected to much jolting and oscillation in the course of transit.
When, therefore, the offer of an animal is accepted, enquiry should be

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 1 53

made as to the suitableness of the travelling cage, and if it turns out to
be unsatisfactory, a proper one should be sent for the purpose.

Breeding.—-Leopards have bred in the garden ; the principal
hindrance, however, to their breeding more freely than hitherto is the
want of room to keep them in pairs. Cubs have been known to be killed
and eaten by other leopards living in the same den. They have,
however, been successfully reared by carefully separating them with
the mother at, or soon after, birth.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

They are subject to all the diseases from which lions and tigers
suffer in captivity, and are amenable to the same treatment. As a
number of them live together in the same den, and as they are rather
qluarrelsome animals, wounds and injuries are often met with among
tiem.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF LEOPARDS.

The agility of the leopard is remarkable, and in general it is
a more active animal than either a tiger or a lion; at the same time it
is bolder and decidedly more pugnacious, especially the black variety.
If taken young and fed upon boiled meat and milk it remains very
tame up to a certain age, but its temper can never be absolutely
trusted. Leopards are fond of climbing trees and basking on the
branches in the sun. Sometimes, though rarely, a leopard has been
observed to make immense bounds. A black leopard once made an
attempt to escape through the bars of the roof of its outer den, which
is over 18 feet high; to this height the animal attained partly by
jumping and partly by climbing up the grated partition. Some of
the leopards, especially in the early days of their incarceration, hide
themselves in the small square masonry tank in their outer dens or
under the wooden platforms in the inner. The leopard is not a noisy
animal ; it sometimes calls at night.

(50) THEQUNCE OR SNOW-LEOPARD.

(FELIS UNCIA—Schreb.)
Descriptions-Smaller than a leopard. Head and body about

. 4 feet 4 inches, tail 3 feet, height about 2 feet. It has dense woolly

fur, the ground-colour is pale whitish grey, sometimes with a yellowish
tinge; white below. There is a median dark band from near the
middle of the, back to the root of the tail; the rest of the body spotted.
Ears black, each with a large yellowish spot.

Hab.-—The ounce is found throughout the Himalayas at high
elevations, and is more common on the Thibetan side of the Snowy
range, where it is met with in the Upper Indus and Sutlej valleys. It
is fairly common in Gilgit. Young snow-leopards are sometimes
captured near Almora and sent down to the plains for sale.

A snow-leopard has never been obtained for exhibition in this
garden. A specimen was brought down from Almora for transmission
to the Zoological Society’s Garden, London, but it died from heat

 

 

 

 

54 l A HAND~BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

lav within a week after its arrival. It may .be remarked In this
Ziirifiectgion that the best time to bring them down Is during the height
of the cold weather in the plains, and even then It Is necessary to be
extremely careful. Its transport ought to .be so arranged that It may
be despatched to England as soon after Its arrival In the plains as

possible.

(51) THE CLOUDED-LEOPARD.

(FELIS N EBULOSA—Grifl‘ith.)

Description—Size of a small leopard; the characteristic features
of this animal are its colour and the markin s of the body, the former
varies from earthy brown to light yellowis brown ; the lower parts
of the body and the inner side of the limbs. whitish ; the markings of
the body are very irregular, the head and limbs being spotted, and the
sides divided into irregularly-shaped elongated patches by narrow pale
coloured bands ; tail ringed with black marks. Irregular black marks
across the throat. .

Hab.—-—South-Eastern Himalayas, Sikhim, Bhutan, at moderate
elevations, Assam hills, hilly parts of Burmah, Siam, the Malay
peninsula, Sumatra, Java and Borneo. '

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen obtained in 1887 lived for about two years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——As the animal is essentially arboreal in its habits, it
ought to have branches of trees in its cage, and there ought to be
a box for retirement. Like the lynx and caracal, it requires to be
kept apart from the other smaller carnivorous animals, as it evidently
dislikes the smell which is unavoidably perceptible in a structure
occupied by a large number of smaller carnivora.

Food.-——Beef has been found to disagree with this animal. It
thrives best on fowls, pigeons, and rabbits given alive, but this kind of
feeding is necessarily expensive. Mutton agrees with it better than
beef, but it is expensive also. No clouded-leopard has ever bred in
this garden.

Transport—A box, 4 feet long, 3 feet broad, and 2 feet 6 inches
high, made of planks on three sides and iron bars about 2 inches
apart in front, will do for transporting a clouded leopard.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

The diseases from which these animals have been observed to
suffer are tumour on the head and dysentery.

A young animal obtained in 1880 suffered from a tumour on its
head, which rendered it partially blind. The tumour was opened and
its contents— a quantity of straw-coloured fluid-let out, but after some
time it formed again and ultimately the animal died from its effects.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. . 55

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A CLOUDED-LEOPARD.

. The specimen obtained in 1880 was very tame; it used to purr
like a cat when stroked and caressed. Its chief delight, however, was
to ascend a tree, and remain hidden away amongst the foliage. The
specimen which was obtained in 1887 never became thoroughly re-
conciled to Its new home; it disliked being looked at by visitors, and
to show Its resentment occasionally struck the rods with some violence.

(52) THE MARBLED CAT.

(FELIS MARMORATA-Martin.)

. Description-It resembles a clouded-leopard in its markings, but
Is much smaller, the length of the head and body being 18 .to 22
Inches, and that of the tail 14 to 15% inches. The tail is not ringed
like that of the clouded-leopard, but spotted on its upper surface. It
is an Ieixtzremgghbeautiful animal.
a .-—I’ im, Eastern Himala as, hill ran es of Assam
Burmah, and the Malay countries, Sumiitra and {lax/a. g ’
A specimen lived for about six weeks in the garden. This parti-
cular specimen was accustomed to feed on a live chicken every night,
and was extremely pugnacious in temper.

(53) THE GOLDEN-CAT.

(FELIS TEMMINCKI—Vz’g. &. Horsf’.)

Description—Its form is elon ated. The len th of head an
about 31 inches, tail about 19 inches, height at tie shoulder abblulto‘lg
Inches; colour of the back dark chestnut; sides pale ferruginous -
whitish below. There are some irregular spots on the breast, a white
or buff-coloured stripe runs from below the eye to behind the gape ' a
Whltlsh band Inside each eye. Ears black or brownish black outside.
Thte colour of some of these creatures is dark brown instead of chest-
nu .

H ab.-—-South-Eastern Himalayas, Tenasserim, Sumatra and B
gpth this: specimens that lived in this garden were obtainedmf'i'lggi

Ippera .

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a golden-cat has lived in this
garden has been five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

. With respect to housing, feeding and transport, it may be treated
In the same way as a clouded-leopard.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Both the specimens exhibited in the garden died somewhat
suddenly, and no post-marten: examination was held, so nothing can be
recorded under this head. ~

 

    

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Both the specimens that lived in this garden were unsuspicious in
their movements, never resenting the approach of visitors near their
cages. Both appeared to be more active than other cats during the
day. One of them had a habit of hiding its food under the straw
bedding and eating it at night.

(54) THE FISHING-CAT.

(FELIS VIVERRINA—Bennett.)

Hindi—Burma, Ban Bilaz'. Bengali—Ban Bzdal.

Description.-——Larger than a domestic cat. Head and body about
30 inches, tail about 11, height at the shoulders from 12 to 15 inches.
Colour of the upper part of the body dark or earthy grey, lighter or
almost whitish below. Body and limbs covered with spots of varied
size and distinctness. Five to six, sometimes eight, black lines on the
head run backwards to the nape, and on reaching the shoulder are
broken up and continue as dotted lines to the lower back. There are
two horizontal cheek bands, one from behind and another from below
the eye; there are also some cross bands on the throat. In some
specimens the limbs are spotted and in others marked with spotted
lines. Tail ringed above, the tip of the tail black, penultimate portion
whitish.

Hab.-—-Indian and Indo-Chinese subregions of the Oriental region.
Bengal, probably Orissa, and the Indo-Grangetic plain generally, extend-
ing as far as Sindh. Malabar coast, from Mangalore to Cape Comorin,
Ceylon. Along the base of the Himalayas, as far as Nepal; through.
out Burmah, Southern China, and the Malayan peninsula. Said to
exist in Formosa.

Fishing-cats have been received in this garden from the follow—
ing placesz—Calcutta, 24-Pergunnahs, Nuddea, J essore, Rungpore,
Purneah, Malda, Rajshahye, Assam, Chittagong, Midnapore.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a fishing-cat has lived in the
garden has been ten years and a few months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Fishing-cats, together with other smaller carnivorous
animals, are kept in the Kuch Behar House. It is a lofty, spacious and
open bungalow, giving shelter from sun and rain to a double row of
cages, which are raised on iron supports three feet above the floor of the
house ; the central passage separating the two lines of cages is used by
the keeper for the purpose of cleaning and feeding, while the deep
verandah outside affords shelter to visitors. Each row of cages is
divided into eight compartments, communicating with each other
by sliding doors. The compartments are each 8 feet long, 5 feet
broad, and 4 feet high, and are built of stout wire netting fastened
to a strong iron frame. To protect the animals from cold and draughts,

,‘zv‘v‘T-llzmwl—qg‘x » . ., ..

 

  
   

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 57

light plank screens are hung up outside the cages, which may be let
down when occasion arises ; inside each cage is a box, open on one side,
wherein the creatures can retire. Thorough and effective cleaning is
necessary to keep down the smell arising from the presence of so many
odoriferous animals in one place, and for this purpose one of the
compartments of each row is generally kept empty, so that, during the
time of cleaning and washing the cages in the morning, the animal
in the adjoining cage may be driven into it and the cage thus
emptied washed and cleaned, the same process being repeated until the
last one is finished. Although this arrangement involves some waste
of space, it ensures more thorough cleanliness than could be achieved
with the presence of the animal in the cage, and saves it from exposure
to wet which it naturally dislikes, especially during the cold weather.
Moreover, it is not always safe to allow a keeper, and more particularly
if he is new to the work, to enter the animals’ cages, as their temper
can never be perfectly trusted.

The smell emanating from these animals cannot, however,
be altogether removed by the most assiduous efforts. Newly captured
and young cats should not be placed on arrival in a building with others,
but kept in a retired place unfrequented by visitors, until they recover
from their nervousness and cease to fret on the approach of the keeper.
These cats sometimes fight with other animals through the wire-netted
partitions of their cages; it may be necessary to add planks to the
netting, but this should be avoided as much as possible, as being an
obstruction to ventilation. During the cold weather a thick layer of
straw is, in addition to the bedding, laid on the roof of each row of
cages to keep them warm. Once every week the sleeping boxes are
taken out and allowed to soak in the water for an hour or two and
then washed with soap. Dry earth is sometimes used with success as a
disinfectant during the winter and summer, but altogether discontinued
in the rains.

Food.——Beef and fish constitute their principal food in captivity.
An adult cat should get about one pound of beef and about half a
pound of fish every evening. The cost of feeding a full-grown cat
is about Rs. 4 per mensem. Doob grass, sulphur, and salt should
be given them in the same way as to the lions and tigers. Like all
other animals, these cats require change of diet, so that chickens, pigeons,
and (rarely) rabbits are sometimes given them. Young specimens are
fed on milk, boiled meat, &c., several times during the day. Some of
the adult animals have been observed to relish land and fresh-water
snails.

Breeding.——Fishing-cats once bred in the garden, but unfortunate-
ly both the young ones were devoured by the male parent.

Transport—A box 3 feet long, 2 feet 6 inches broad, and
2 feet or 18 inches high, made of deal planks on three sides
and 1 inch iron rods in front, will suit for the conveyance of a con 19'
of these cats. Such as are still wild, having only been recently caug t,
rarely survive a journey by rail or sea. Care should, therefore, be
taken to send only those that have lived for some time in captivity and
become accustomed to the presence of men. Fish diet is not absolutely
necessary for them, so that it can be dispensed with in transport.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

, Dz'arrlewa and dysentery are the principal diseases from which
these animals have been observed to suffer. The treatment adopted is
chiefly dietetic; sometimes the animals themselves abstain from food.
A live chicken or a pigeon checks diarrhoea in mild cases.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A FISHING-CAT.

Some of these animals have been found to be savage and bold,
others good tempered, though not tame. They generally snarl and
spit on their cages being approached or retire 1ns1de their sleeping box.
None of these cats have ever been noticed to purr. In their movements
they are not so agile as some of the other wild cats. . They mostly
sleep during the day, but become active towards the evening.

(55) THE LEOPARD OAT.
(FELIS BEN GALEN SIS—Kerr.)

Descrz‘ptz‘on.-——This beautiful cat varies a good deal in size and
shades of colour. A full-grown animal measures, head and body, from
24 to 26 inches, tail about 11 inches. Ground colour above pale yellow
in some, rufous grey in others, below white or whitish. Four black
lines run backwards from the head, and being broken up at the nape
continue down to the back as dotted lines; the cheek bands meet the
line crossing the throat. Black spots on the sides of the shoulders and
body. Spots of the limbs smaller. The spots of the body have gene-
rally a linear arrangement. The arrangement of spots varies also in
different specimens.

Hab.-—Himalayas as far west as Simla; Lower Bengal, Assam, the
Burmese and the Malayan countries. Southern China, Sumatra, Java,
Borneo, and the Philippines. The Syhadri Range or Western Ghats
of India, Coorg, Wynaad, Travancore, Vizagapatam.

Leopard cats have been obtained from Assam, Darjeeling, Penang,
Dacca, Rungpore, the Sunderbuns, Sumatra, &c.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None have lived more than four years in this garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-The Kuch Behar House (see page 56) in Which these
animals are kept does not appear to suit them.
' Food.———Beef, their principal food here, does not seem to agree
with them. Sparrows and other small birds are occasionally given
and are much relished. ’

Transport—A cage about the size of that recommended for the
Fishing-cat, and of similar construction, will do for the transport of
a pair of these cats. Both the Fishing and the Leopard cats are in
the habit of striking at the bars of the cage. It is, therefore, much
better to have the roof of the cage made of rods instead of the front.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The remarks made with regard to the Fishing-cats apply to those

also. . .g.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITSQQ

Of the several specimens, exhibited, nonehtive ever been found to
be tame. They invariably remain in their“ Sleeping box during the
day, becoming livelier towards the evening. Very shy and suspicious.
More active and lighter than the Fishing-cat.

(56) THE RUSTY SPOTTED CAT;
(FELIS RUBIGINOSA—Js. Geqfl-‘m

Descm'ption.-——The size of this small cat is less than that of an ordiiw
nary domestic cat. Head and body about 16 to 18 inches, tail about 9.
“ General colour pale yellowish brown, covered sparsely with reddish
spots. The usual stripes over the head and down the back of the neck
dark brown, sometimes extending the length of the back, or broken into
oblong spots towards the hind quarters. Line between the nose and
the eye, lips, throat, breast and entire underparts pure white, faintly
barred upon the breast with rufous, inner side of front legs crossed with
two bars of blackish brown ; belly spotted with the same, and inner Side
of hind legs crossed with two bars Of dark rufous (brown. Two lines of
red cross the cheeks, one starting from behind the eye, the other just
below, and extending beneath the ear. Tail, slender, rather long, same
colour as the back, unspotted. Back of cars black, with a rufous spot
in the centre. Paws and the lower parts of the legs yellowish.’ ’«Ellz'ot.

In the specimen exhibited here the lines crossing the cheeks were
rusty brown in colour.

Hab.-Southern,India and Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about eighteen months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing, feeding and transport, it may be treated like
a Leopard cat. -
OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

The specimen exhibited was very shy and retiring, remained
crouched on a shelf in one corner of the cage and never came down
during the day. It was very light and nimble in its movements.

(57) THE JUNGLE CAT.
(FELIS CHAUS—Giild.)

Bengali-nKhdtds. .

Description—Slender in build. Size, head and body about 22
inches, tail about 11 ; height at the shoulder 15 to 16 inches. In some

 

 

 

 

 

60 A HAND-BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

specimens the ears have a few long hairs, but not forming a tuft.

Colour of the body varies from dark brownish grey to yellowish ; limbs.

and flanks are generally lighter coloured than the back. Transverse
bands "are sometimes visible on the limbs. Tail ringed w1th black
towards the and, tip black. In some specimens the markings are con-

spicuous, in others absent. .
Hab.-——Common all over India, ascending the HImalayas to 7,000 to

8,000 feet. Burmah, Ceylon, North-Western Asia, and Northern Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although living in a wild state, probably within half a mile of the
garden, it does not appear to thrive well here. The longest period
during which one lived in the garden has been only a little over five

years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH AND SICKNESS, AND TRANSPORT.

In all these respects it may be treated in the same way as a
Fishing-cat.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

In its habits it closely resembles the Fishingmat; those exhi-
bited were however found to be less addicted to spitting and snarhng
than the Fishing-cats.

(58) THE CARACAL.

(FELIS CARACAL—Giild.)
Hindi~Sialz~gosh.

Description—Slender in form, with long limbs. An adult animal
measures, head and body, 26 to 30 inches, tail about 9 inches. General
colour reddish brown, without spots, below white. Back and tip of ears
black. Its principal features are the long pointed tufts of the ears.
Lynxes from different localities vary in colour, some being dark, others
lighter; faint markings are sometimes visible.

Hubs—Punjab, Sindh, North-Western and Central India. Outside
India it occurs in Mesopotamia, and perhaps in the highlands of
Persia, in Arabia and throughout a large part of Africa (Blanford).

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The damp moist climate of Lower Bengal does not agree with
this animal, so that of the number of specimens exhibited none has
lived more than three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-The specimens exhibited were mostly kept in the Kuch
Behar House (see page 56). Although the want of success in keeping
caracals does not appear to be due to any defects in the habitation, it
is in contemplation to try the experiment of keeping them in isolated
cages. . . .

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 61

Food.—-—A caracal should be fed on live fowls, pigeons, rabbits, 3‘0. ;
beef should be avoided as much as possible.
li'ansport——May be treated like any other large cat.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea and dysentery are the principal diseases from which
these animals have been observed to suffer. ‘hey rarely recover.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Some specimens have been found to be tame enough to allow them-
selves to be stroked, but most of them snarl and spit on the approach
of men. They are in the habit of constantly pacing their cages, whether
tame or wild. Unlike many other eats, a caracal does not appear to
become lively towards evening; in fact. they have on several occasions
been observed to sleep at night while other cats were awake and lively.

(59) THE LYNX.

(FELIS LYNX—Linn.)

Description.-—A very heavily built cat. Head and body about
33 inches, tail about 7; height at the shoulder about 18. The tufts
of hair at the end of each ear are long, pointed and black. A ruff
is formed by the long hair of the binder part of the cheeks. Fur
soft and woolly. Limbs powerful and paws massive. The colour of
the animal varies from isabelline grey to rufous fawn: the flanks and
limbs are marked with faint brown spots. In the specimen which
lived in the garden the summer coat was short and smooth, and the
rufl? and the ear tufts were not conspicuous; during the winter the coat
changed considerably, the hair becoming longer, softer and very dense
and paler in colour; the ruff and the ear tufts were also very conspicuous
in winter. The terminal half of the tail black. In European speci-
mens, known as the red lynx, the colour is generally brownish red with
distinct black spots at certain seasons of the year.

Huh—Upper Indus Valley, Gilgit, Ladak, Thibet, throughout
Asia north of the Himalayas, and Europe north of the Alps.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived in the collection from January 1878 to February
1884. This, however, does not represent the maximum length of its
life in captivity, as the animal was sent away while still in the
enjoyment of health and vigor.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—During two years it remained under private treatment,
was tied up in the shade, and never allowed into the sun. The success
which attended the rearing of this animal was attributed to this
precaution, as the animal was an inhabitant of a very cold region. At
night it slept in the stable. It was bathed every morning with soap

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

62 A HAND-BOOK OF-THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

and water, and wiped dry with a towel. At the end of 1879 it was
removed to the garden; but, as it had been accustomed to live In
comparative seclusion and was suspicious of. strangers, 1.15. was housed
in a place adjoining the garden not accessrble to the yisitors: from
thence it was occasionally taken to the garden for ethbItion. .

Food.———One and a half pounds of boiled beef morning and evening,
and a pint of fresh milk in the morning only. The usual practice was
to feed it in the morning immediately after the. bath, and again at
7 o’clock in the evening. A basin of pure drmklng water was always
kept near it. . . _

Iransportr-Under ordinary circumstances it may be treated like
any other large cat. The arrangements, however, for transporting such
a creature ought to be somewhat special. Precaution should be taken
that it may not be exposed to the sun. To ensure proper cleanliness,
which is absolutely necessary for an animal accustomed to be bathed
and washed every morning, the cage should be made wlth double
compartments, so that, while one is being cleaned the animal may be
shut into another: the inner retiring room, which may also be used
for shutting it in in bad weather, should be made of planks attached to
a light wooden frame, and the outer room of i inch iron rods on three
sides and of planks in the floor and roof. Water should be frequent-
ly given, but not always kept inside the cage, as otherwise the floor of
the cage will remain constantly wet, in consequence of the rolling
of the ship, rendering it uncomfortable for the beast to sit or lie
upon. A quantity of dry earth may, if possible, be supplied, in a
shallow earthen vessel, which if kept in one corner of the cage, the
lynx will probably make use of it. To be fed as usual.

TREATMENT IN SICKNEss.

The lynx above mentioned once met with a serious accident,
fracturing its left thigh bone. It happened thus. Wishing to stalk
some passing cat, it sprang over the railing of a lower verandah and
was nearly strangled by its chain. When lifted up it was found that
the left thigh bone was fractured. It was laid down carefully on its
right side, and with great docility the animal maintained this position
for weeks until the fracture had united. While a patient, it
permitted itself to be carried about from place to place, and purred with
pleasure when it received more than usual attention.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A LYNX.

It slept much during the day, but was generally lively at night.
It would make occasional springs, and was pleased with the attention
of the Persons whom it knew, and allowed itself to be handled like
a dog. It was known to recognize persons after long absence, purring
and leaning against its friends'and otherwise indicating pleasure at the
interview. It was sometimes very noisy at night. Though accustomed
to be bathed almost every morning, it was afraid of being sprinkled
with cold water. It hated domestic cats, and on one occasion very
~ nearly killed one which imprudently came too near its kennel with
a view perhaps to purloining the remnants of food.

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 63

(60) THE PUMA.
(FELIS CONCOLOR—Linn.) ,

Descripticn.—-About the size of a leopard, but slender in build.
Head and body about'4 feet, tail about 2 feet 4 inches. General colour
rufous brown, darker on the tail. Cheeks, upper lip, chin, throat
white; breast and under parts generally albescent. On each side of
the upper lip is a black mark, somewhat of avcrescent shape. Lower
part ofthe tail black: colour varies in different seasons. Young pumas

are spotted.
Hab.-—North and South America.

, LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen lived for about eighteen months.

TREATMENT IN CAPTIVITY.

. It may be housed and fed in the same manner as other carnivorous
animals already mentioned.

TaEATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The animal after its arrival in the garden was never perfectly
healthy: it suffered off and on from diarrhoea and dysentery, to which
it ultimately succumbed. The treatment applied was chiefly dietetic,
live fowls, pigeons, and even kids, being given at intervals. The
post-mortars examination showed ulceration of the lower part Of the
intestines.

OBSERVATIONS oN THE HABITS or A PUMA.

Owing probably to the indifferent state of its health, it was never
very lively ; neither was it very good tempered. Sometimes at night
it uttered a shrill, piercing cry, but was generally silent. This beast
was found never to sleep upon the wooden platform, but preferred the
floor of its sleeping apartment. ,When this was observed to be its
invariable practice, a bundle of. straw was given for bedding even
during the summer, and good use was made of it. It was much
addicted to paddling the water of its drinking vessel.

(61; THE JAGUAR.
(FELIS ONCA—Linn.)

Description.—-In general appearance a jaguar resembles a leOpard,
from which it can, however, be readily distinguished by its short and
massive limbs and paws, its bull-dog head and powerful jaws, and lastly
by its spots, which are arranged in rosettes, with a single spot within
each ring. The ground colour of a jaguar is generally darker than of
a leopard. The average Size of this creature is about 4 feet from the
nose to the root of the tail; tail about 2 feet; height at the shoulder
from 18 inches to 2 feet.

Hab.—-A.merica.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIvITY.

A pair have been in the garden since January 1890.

 

 

 

 

 

:rmfirwawwmmwm Jammy“, _ . . I. . “

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With respect to housing, feeding and transport, the jaguar may
be treated like any other larger carnivorous animal. As the male is
the more powerful of the two, it was observed to appropriate the food
of the female, after having eaten its own, so they had to be fed
separately.

. TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

During the short time that they have been living in the garden,

the jaguars have maintained excellent health.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF JAGUARB.

These animals were very shy on their arrival, and continued so for
some time. They appeared after a time to have become bolder, so as not
to runaway to the furthest corner of the ca 9 on the approach of men ;
they similarly learnt to obey their keeper. Though not generally noisy,
their call is more sonorous and deep than that of a leopard. One of the
favourite fancies of the male is to carry a large log of wood backward
and forward several times during the day. i

(62) THE OCELOT.
(rams PARDALIS—Linn.)

Description—This is the most variable of cats, no two specimens
being alike in markings and colour. Fur soft and short, general colour
rufous white or whitish ; sometimes rufous yellow; head, neck, shoulders,
and back marked with black spots or lines: flanks and loins striped
with broad black lines : limbs spotted and more rufous in colour; under
parts white; chest and belly spotted; a black line crosses the throat

eneath the cheek and passes down to the throat. Tail long, with
irregular shaped bands and spots; towards the end blackish. A full-
grown animal measures, head and body, about 29 inches; tail about 16.
The colour of the specimen that lived in the garden was light grey.
Huh—America.

LENGTH‘OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An ocelot lived in this garden a little over nine years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

In respect of housing, feeding and transport it may be treated like
any other cat. The comparatively long period during which this
animal lived has probably been due to its being fed on live rabbits or
guinea pigs almost once a week. It ought to be remembered that flesh-
meat often induces diarrhoea in cats, and with some it disagrees more
that; with others. They often eat bits of bread, biscuits and other
sun mes. ~

TREATMENT 1s srcxn ass.

Severe cold and inflammation of the lungs are the diseases from
which an ocelot has been observed to suffer, the latter ending fatally.

   

 

      

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 65

The cold was accompanied by slight cough and much sneezing. The
animal was not removed to another place, but, to protect it from
probable risk of climate and to keep the place as warm as possible,
canvas screens were hung all round, and a very thick straw bedding
was provided. For the first three or four days the animal ate absolutely
nothing, but when it had partially recovered its appetite chicken soup
and milk were given. Except a dose of castor oil (half an ounce) in
milk, no medicine was internally administered. During the time the
ocelot remained ill the washing of its cage was altogether suSpended.
In about a fortnight the animal completely recovered.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF AN OCELOT.

The specimen exhibited in the garden was a playful, active creature ;
when not asleep it was hardly ever at rest. It found great amusement
in setting some wooden balls rolling, and watching them in motion,
sometimes from one side and sometimes from another, and, when they
stopped, in setting them in motion again. Anything tassellated or
pendant greatly excited and amused this animal, so that, when tired of
playing with the balls, it would betake itself to the bunch of jute which
hung from the roof of its cage. It was extremely tame and purred like
a domestic eat when pleased at the attention paid to it; but it once
betrayed such ferocity, its great tameness notwithstanding, that all
confidence in the animal’s temper was lost. A boy-keeper of some
fifteen years of age cleaned its cage every morning, and was very friendly
with the animal. While engaged in his usual work one morning, the
ocelot attacked him savagely and literally tore open his scalp, inflicting
at the same time other less severe wounds. Having regard to the
manner of attack as described by the boy, it was conjectured that the
pendant locks of his hair, set in motion by the movement of his body
while sweeping out the cage, attracted the beast, and that the resistance
which the boy naturally offered exasperated it, and its native ferocity of
temper was aroused.

(63) THE DOMESTIC CAT.

(FELIS CATUs VAR. DOMESTICUS -Er.rl.)

Several varieties of domestic cats have been exhibited: the Persian
cat with lengthened fur; the Malayan cat with truncated tail,—-~some
of these having short and peculiarly twisted tail; and the semi-
domesticated Indian cat with grey-ground colour and black stripes,
supposed to be derived from the Felis viverrina. A Thibetan cat with
an ash y coat has been living in excellent health for the last year.

(64) THE HUNTING LEOPARD.
(CYNAELURUS .JUBATUS—Sckreb.)

Hindi— Claim.

Descriptionw-Head and body about 4 feet, tail about 2. Slender
in body and lanky in limbs. Head round and much smaller than, that
of a leopard. Fur generally coarse, hair about the neck and belly some-
what lengthened and shaggy. General colour above and on the sides

E

 

66 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

tawny or rufous fawn,,pale below; almost the whole body covered with
small round spots; chin and throat not spotted. A black line runs
down from the corner of each eye to the upper lip. Tail spotted above,

imperfectly ringed below. _ . _ .
Hab.-—Africa, South-Western As1a, Indla. In India hunt1ng

leopards are found in the Punjab, ,Rajputana, Central India, as far
east as the confines of Bengal.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair from Rajputana lived for about four years in this garden,
and a single specimen from Africa has been living for more than a year.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——The specimens from Rajputana were housed in the
Burdwan House (described on pages 40-41). As these animals were
trained for hunting, and accustomed to be kept on chcrpoys, this mode
of confinement evidently did not suit them. One now living in the
garden is lodged in a smaller house and appears to be happy. This
house is built on the same plan as that assigned to the Orang-outang,
but smaller; it has the indispensable wooden platform in the sleeping
or inner den. In their wild state they live in dry places, and it is
therefore necessary that they should have dry accommodation in cap-
tivity also. This is specially requisite in a climate like that of Bengal.

Food.—-rThe specimens from Rajputana were fed on beef, cut. up
into small bits, without any bone ; the one now in the garden is fed
on mutton, beef having been found to disagree with it.

Transport-Chained and hooded, they are sometimes conveyed
from place to place on elaarpog/s placed on carts, but this mode of trans-
port is only possible when the animal is well trained and in constant
charge of keepers all the way. A pair of them were once brought down
in this way from J eypore. For ordinary purposes a cage should be

rovided, and, as the animal is extremely timid and excitable, should be
boarded with planks on all sides with the necessary apertures for
ventilation.

Breeding.-—Chitas have never bred in this garden, and as far as
known they seldom breed in captivity.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea is the only disease that has been met with in this species,
and it yielded to change of diet.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

I Gentle in disposition, but timid and excitable. Anything unusual
excites it : it has generally a terrified look.

(65) THE LARGE INDIAN CIVET.

(VIVERRA ZIBE'THA—Linn.)
Ben gali—Bdgdcms.

Descript’z‘on.-—The head and body elongated muzzle roduoed,
limbs short, back slightly arched, and a crest of erbctile hair Ialong its

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 67

whole length. General colour dark grey; a black band runs along the
middle of the back, corresponding to the crest. In some specimens the
sides of the body are marked with indistinct spots and “ eyes.” (In
none of the specimens that have lived in this garden have these spots
or “eyes ” been observed.) Upper parts of the limbs distinctly barred;
lower parts of the same colour as the body. Front and sides of the
neck and chest white; a broad, black band crosses the neck, forming
a collar; the black band is so wide that the white parts before and
behind it appear really as two white bands crossing the neck. Ears
small; tail ringed white with intervals of broad, black bands. An adult
animal measures, head and body, about 32 inches; tail 18. Some are
much lighter in colour than others.

Heb. -—Bengal, Assam, Burmah, the Malayan peninsula, Siam and
Southern China. Common in the neighbourhood of Calcutta.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one of these animals has lived
in the collection has been nearly thirteen years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——The specimens exhibited in the garden have all been
kept in the Kuch Behar House (see page 56). As these animals sleep
much during the day, a large wine box with one side open will be
much appreciated by them as a» retiring place. A piece of hard
stone is useful for them to scratch their nails upon. ,

Food.-—-'l‘hey are almost omnivorous. Their food consists of about
half a dozen to eight plantains in the morning, and about a pound and
a half of beef, either raw or boiled, according to their individual taste
in the evening; biscuit or bread is sometimes substituted for plantains.
Land and fresh-water snails, frogs, lizards, eggs and small birds are
equally acceptable to them. The specimen that lived for thirteen years
in the garden was fender of a vegetable than an animal diet, and ate
large quantities of bread and biscuits.

Transport-It may be treated like any of the cats mentioned
before.

With regard to Breeding and treatment in sickness, there are no
observations to record, as none of them ever bred in the garden, nor is
there any experience of their illness and its treatment.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A. LARGE CIVET.

The large civet, in captivity, is quiet and undemonstrative.
Although none have ever been found to become tame enough to respond
to friendly attentions, yet on the other hand they are never savage and
fierce, as some of the cats are found to be. They sleep much during
the day, becoming livelier at the hours of feeding and at night. Their
natural activity has often been noticed to be roused at the sight of a
sparrow or a lizard in or near the cage. They do not appear to be
quarrelsome, or mischievous, like the palm civets. The‘odour of‘these
animals is neither so strong nor so offensive as that of palm civets or
ratels. Large civets are, on the whole, very cleanly in their habits,

E2

 

.mW Wm... - »

 

68 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(66) THE MALAYAN CIVET.

(VIVERRA TAN GALUN GA—Gray.)

Hab.——India, Sumatra, Malayan peninsula, Burmah. .As this
animal lived only for a short time, in 1877, no special experience was
acquired.

(67) THE SMALL INDIAN OIVET.

(VIVERRICU LA MALACCENSIS—G’mel.)
Bengali-Gandha goula.

Dcscm'ptz‘on.-—Elongated and slender in form. Head and body
about 21 to 23 inches, tail 15 to 17 inches. A specimen ‘now living
in the garden measures approximately, head and body, 20 inches; tail
14%. General colour of the body brownish grey or pale yellowish brown ;
five to seven dark-brown longitudinal bands on the back, and several
rows of spots on the sides. A dark stripe crosses the throat, and two
from behind the ears pass on to the shoulder. Tail ringed alternately
black and white. The colour and markings vary in different specimens,
and from the observations taken of the creatures exhibited in this garden
it is certain that many of them change colour at different seasons of
the year : confinement appears to have some effect upon their coating.

Huh—With the exceptions of Sindh, the Punjab, and the western
parts of Rajputana, it occurs throughout India. Found in Ceylon,
Assam, Burmah, Southern China, the Malay peninsula, Java, Socotra,
Comoro Islands, and Madagascar. Often captured in the neighbour-
hood of Calcutta.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—Tbs specimens exhibited in the garden have been kept
in one of the cages of the Kuch Behar House. As they are lightly-built
animals and somewhat inquisitive, they are likely to escape through
the gratings of a cage if the latter are not sufficiently close, and it is
therefore better to keep them in cages made of wire netting. A small
deal wood box, full of loose earth, and some hay or straw, may be
given them as a retiring place, so that they may burrow in the earth
if inclined to do so.

Food—May be fed on a mixed diet consisting of meat, boiled or
raw, eggs, plantains, and other fruits and bread: in fact it, like a large
civet, eats anything. 1 1

Transport—A smal dea cage, 2 feet lon , 1 foot or 15 inch
broad, and about as high, will comfortably agccommodate a pair iii
these animals. . As they are not amiable in disposition, when wild
two or more ammals of unknown temper should not be put together. ,

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea is the only disease from which some of these animals
have been noticed to suffer, and in such cases either the food was
stopped for a day or two or a change of diet prescribed.

”was”.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 69

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A MALAYAN CIVET.

The Malayan civet is active and inquisitive, and is easily tamed.
It remains coiled up in its box during the greater part of the day:
even a tame one is seldom seen pacing the cage when there is nothing
to attract its attention. Compared with the size and bulk of the animal,
its footfall is heavy. It is extremely dexterous in killing rats and.
guinea pigs, holding its prey by the neck and not leaving it until dead.

(68) THE COMMON GENET.

(GEN ETTA VULGARIS—(Less.) )

Description.~Head and body elongated. General colour yellowish
grey ; body black-spotted ; tail ringed with white and black bands; tip
whitish. A black stripe runs along the middle line of the back.

Bah—South Europe, North Africa and Asia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.
It may be treated like the Malayan civet.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

Resembles the Malayan civet in its habits, but less retiring in
disposition, although never very tame.

(69) HARDWICKE’S HEMIGALE.

(HEMIGALEA HARDWICKII-(G’rayJ )

De.ecrz'ptz‘on.a—The specimen exhibited was not quite full-grown
when obtained: it measured, head and body, about 18 inches ; tail about
15. General colour pale yellow, with black-brown stripes on the head
and nape ; across the back are five or six black bands; the lowest
portion of the tail, or more properly its base, is ringed; its terminal
portion black. Head conical, body long, and the back slightly arched.

Hab.-—Borneo, Malacca.

May be treated like the Malayan civets and genets.

OBSERVATIONS oN ITS HABITS.

Though small, it is a fierce animal. Thespecimennnder notice
slept much during the day, but was awake and llvely at night It was
never seen to touch its food before darknesshad come on. When fed
upon live food, it attacked its prey with surprising ferocIty and quickness.
The footfall of this animal was also noticed to be heavy. ‘

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGLMENT OF ANIMALS

(70) THE INDIAN PALM CIVET.
(PARADOXURUS NIGER—~Desm.)

(71) THE MALAYAN PALM CIVET.

(PARADOXURUS HERMAPHRODITUS~(Pall.) )

Bengali—~Blmm, Bhondar, Gandagau/a.

These two species (70 and 71) are so much alike that they may be
mentioned together. They have the same synonyms in Bengali, and
no specific distinction is recognized. They are so common and well
known that any description is unnecessary. They appear to dIfter 1n the
following respects :——-

Muzzle.-—That of the Indian palm civet, produced and narrow; of
the Malayan shorter.

Tailv-About as long as the head and body, and well clad with hair
in the Indian civet; in the Malayan species, about three quarters the
length of the head and body, and not so well clad with hair.

The colour and j‘ur.——'l‘he general colour of the Indian species is
blackish grey to brownish grey, and fur long, coarse and abundant;
the colour of the Malayan palm civet is brownish grey, sometimes ashy,
and fur less abundant.

Stripes and mar/cings~—Vary in both the species. In the Indian
species the stripes on the back are generally indistinct or wanting;
in the Malayan palm civets the longitudinal stripes on the back are
well marked, the sides of the body often spotted, and the upper parts
of the limbs barred. The young specimens of the Indian palm civet
are also striped and spotted. No white band across the forehead in the
Indian species; in the Malayan there is. Both the species are subject
to much individual variation with regard to their stripes and other
markings. .

Bah—The Indian palm civet is found throughout India, with the
exceptions of the Punjab and Sindh; rare in North-West Provinces,
Bombay, the Deccan; it is also found in Ceylon. The Malayan palm civet
is found in Bengal, Burmah, Siam, the Malayan peninsula, Sumatra,
J ava and Borneo. Both the species occur side by side in Lower Bengal.
Animals of intermediate forms, 2'.e., resembling both these creatures, are
also very common. Palm civets have been received from the following
places :-—-Calcutta and its neighbourhood, Decca, Mymensingh, Ceylon,
Midnapore, Madras, Burmah, Gya, Malda, &c.

LENGTH or LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

Although so common and living in a wild state within the garden,
these ammals do not appear to bear captivity well, so that none of
them ever lived for more than five or six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Homing.-—The palm civets are kept in the Kuch Behar House.
As they are extremely quarrelsome creatures, it is advisable to keep

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 71

only a pair in one cage; otherwise they fight and injure each other
to a serious extent. That none of these animals has ever lived for more
than five or six years is, to a great extent, due to this fact. Either the
new arrivals should be refused a place in a garden, or he t in separate
cages. A small box for the animals to sleep in during t 6 day is in-
dispensable. As they are arboreal in habits, a branch of a tree stuck
inside the cage will be much appreciated by them.

Food.-—The usual food of palm civets in captivity consists of
boiled meat, fruits and eggs; but they are omnivorous, and would eat
almost everything. Entrails of fowls or pigeons, frogs, snails, &c., are
sometimes given as a change of diet. Boiled rice, fish and vegetables
are also acceptable to them.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF PALM CIVETS.

Coiled up inside the box or in one corner of the cage, palm
civets pass most of their time during the day in sleep, gathering care-
fully round them the straw, hay or dry leaves provided for their
bedding. They have a prehensile tail, although they do not all
appear to possess it 'in the same degree, and this limited prehensile
power of their tail may be observed when one has to be dislodged from
a forbidden place of refuge. As a last resource it holds on with the end
of its tail to anything it may chance to find. The palm civets emit
an offensive smell owing to their possession of. odour glands, and their
presence in a bush or tree is easily perceived from this cause.

(72) THE HIMALAYAN PALM CIVET.

(PARADOXURUS GRAYI—-Bennett.)

The chief features of this species are its uniform grey colour, and its
woolly fur. Some specimens are much lighter in colour than others:
the terminal half of the tail in some is black; head, with the exception
of the forehead, ear, and chin, brown. or blackish: a broad band below
each ear and a narrow line down the nose and a spot below each eye;
the whiskers are white.

.Haba—Assam, Sikhim, Nepal, Arracan, and the Andaman Islands.
§plecigiens have been received from Darjeeling and the Andaman

s an s.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
One lived for about five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

May be treated like the other palm civets. Those obtained from
Darjeeling should not be exposed to sun, but kept in a. cool place. It
is well, if possible, to keep a civet like this, which is very cleanly in its
habits and does not emit much offensive odour, in an isolated cage
under a tree, or some other sheltered Spot. ' '

 

   
 
  

 

 
 
  
 
 
 
   
 
 
  
   
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  

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70 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or immune

(7 0) THE INDIAN PALM CIVET.
(PARADOXURUS NIGER—nDesm.)

(71) THE MALAYAN PALM CIVET.

(PARADOXURUS HERMAPHRODITUS—(Poll.) )

Bengali—“Blatant, Bhondar, Gandagau/a.

These two species (70 and 71) are so much alike that they may be
mentioned together. They have the same synonyms in Bengali, and
no specific distinction is recognized. They are so common and well
known that any description is unnecessary. They appear to differ in the
following respects :—

Muszle.--—That of the Indian palm civet, produced and narrow; of
the Malayan shorter. . .

Tail—About as long as the head and body, and well clad With hair
in the Indian civet; in the Malayan species, about three quarters the
length of the head and body, and not so well clad with hair. ‘

The colour and fun—The general colour of the Indian species is
blackish grey to brownish grey, and fur long, coarse and abundant;
the colour of the Malayan palm civet is brownish grey, sometimes ashy,
and fur less abundant.

Stripes and markings—Vary in both the species. In the Indian
species the stripes on the back are generally indistinct or wanting;
in the Malayan palm civets the longitudinal stripes on the back are
well marked, the sides of the body often spotted, and the upper parts
of the limbs barred. The young specimens of the Indian palm civet
are also striped and spotted. No white band across the forehead in the
Indian species; in the Malayan there is. Both the species are subject
to much individual variation with regard to their stripes and other
markings.

Hab.—-The Indian palm civet is found throughout India, with the
exceptions of the Punjab and Sindh; rare in North-West Provinces,
Bombay, the Deccan; it is also found in Ceylon. The Malayan palm civet
is found in Bengal, Burmah, Siam, the Malayan peninsula, Sumatra,
Java and Borneo. Both the species occur side by side in Lower Bengal.
Animals of intermediate forms, 2'.e., resembling both these creatures, are
also very common. Palm civets have been received from the following
places :——Calcutta and its neighbourhood, Dacca, Mymensingh, Ceylon,
Midnapore, Madras, Burmah, Gya, Malda, &c.

LENGTH OF LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

Although so common and living in a wild state within the garden,
these anlmals do not appear to bear captivity well, so that none of
them ever lived for more than five or six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Homing.—-—The palm civets are kept in the Kuch Behar House.
As they are extremely quarrelsome creatures, it is advisable to keep

 

 

  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWE-R BENGAL. 71

only a pair in one cage; otherwise they fight and injure each other
to a serious extent. That none of these animals has ever lived for more
than five or six years is, to a great extent, due to this fact. Either the
new arrivals should be refused a place in a garden, or ke t in separate
cages. A small box for the animals to sleep in during the day is in-
dispensable. As they are arboreal in habits, a branch of a tree stuck
inside the cage will be much appreciated by them.

Food.-—The usual food of palm civets in captivity consists of
boiled meat, fruits and eggs; but they are omnivorous, and would eat
almost everything. Entrails of fowls or pigeons, frogs, snails, &c., are
sometimes given as a change of diet. Boiled rice, fish and vegetables
are also acceptable to them.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or PALM CIVETS.

Coiled up inside the box or in one corner of the cage, palm
civets pass most of their time during the day in sleep, gathering care—
fully round them the straw, hay or dry leaves provided for their
bedding. They have a prehensile tail, although they do not all
appear to possess it _in the same degree, and this limited prehensile
power of their tail may be observed when one has to be dislodged from
a forbidden place of refuge. As a last resource it holds on with the end
of its tail to anything it may chance to find. The palm civets emit
an offensive smell owing to their possession of. odour glands, and their
presence in a bush or tree is easily perceived from this cause.

(72) THE HIMALAYAN PALM CIVET.

(PARADOXURUS GRAYI—Bennett.)

The chief features of this species are its uniform grey colour, and its
woolly fur. Some specimens are much lighter in colour than others:
the terminal half of the tail in some is black; head, with the exception
of the forehead, ear, and chin, brown. or blackish: a broad band below
each ear and a narrow line down the nose and a spot below each eye;
the whiskers are white.

.Habu—Assam, Sikhim, Nepal, Arraean, and the Andaman Islands.
§Izieciamens have been received from Darjeeling and the Andaman

s an s.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
One lived for about five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

May be treated like the other palm civets. Those obtained from
Darjeeling should not be exposed to sun, but kept in a cool place. It
is well, if possible, to keep a civet like this, which is very cleanly in its
habits and does not emit much offensive odour, in an isolated cage
under a tree, or some other sheltered spot. ' '

  

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Food.—-Beef should be avoided as much as possible, and this
presents no difliculty, as the animal thrives well on.fru1ts, bread, milk
and eggs. Live sparrows and small chickens, occas1onally given, Will
do it much good. . .

Transport—May be treated like cats: those from the HImalayas
should receive special attention.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

It resembles other civets in habits, but does notnhowever, appear
to be at all pugnacious. Specimens obtained from Darjeeling lose much
of their woolly fur during the summer.

(73) THE WHITE-WHISKERED PALM CIVET.

’ (PARADOXURUS LEUCOMYSTAX—Gray.)

This differs from the preceding species in being a larger animal;
its colour is reddish brown, the muzzle paler. . .

Hab.——Malacca, Malay Archipelago, and Tenasserim. A spoolmen
was obtained in 1877 from the Karen Hills, Burmah.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

It may be treated like other civets.

(74) THE SMALL-TOOTHED PALM CIVET.

(ARCToeALE LEfiCOTIS-(BlythJ)

Description—The dimensions of an adult animal are-head and
body about 25 inches, tail about 27 inches. Fur smooth, "colour yellow-
ish or brownish grey: three longitudinal black bands or lines of
spots run along the back : a white line on the forehead, running down
to the nose: tips of the ears in some specimens white.

[ Hab.——Assam, Sylhet, Tipperah, Arracan, Tenasserim, Malacca,
Sumatra, and Java. Specimens have been obtained' from Burmah,
Tipperah, Assam. _

Nata—There is nothing special to record of this animal.

(75) THE BEAR-CAT 0R BINTURONG.

(ARCTICTIS BIN TURONG—( Rafles.) )
Hindi—Bhdl—bz'lh’ or Kala Bkdl-billz'.
Descm‘ptz‘on.-—It resembles both a civet and a bear in general appear-
ance. Has a conical head, broad at the base and tapering towards the
muzzle. Ears small and covered with long hair, which forms a pencilled
tuft at the ends. Whiskers long and numerous. ’l‘ail very long,
prehensile, and covered with long hair: body also covered with lon
coarse hair. General colour grizzled black: the head and the lower
parts of the limbs grey. Hair at the middle of the back parted.
Huh—Assam, Arracan, Tenasserim, Siam, the Malayan peninsula,

Sumatra, and Java. ,A specimen said to have been captured in Bhutan
was obtained in 1882.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen, obtained in 1883, is still alive.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housz'ng.——In providing accommodation for a binturong, three
points should be borne in mind ; it is a nocturnal animal; arboreal in
habits; and those obtained from Sumatra and Java do not stand much
cold. Binturongs kept in one of the cages of the Gubbay House have
been found to thrive. Here they have a dead trunk of a tree which
they can climb at pleasure, a top shelf for retirement and sleep during
the day ; and the house, while well protected from cold,is at the same
time airy during the summer. As, however, this house is principally
intended for delicate monkeys and lemurs, room is not always available
for a binturong, and they are, therefore, often accommodated in one of
the cages of the Kuch Behar House (see page 56). To give them some
seclusion during the day when kept here, it has been found advisable to
letdown half of the plank screen outside the cage; a sleeping-box,
of course, is indispensable.

Ebert-Boiled meat (beef or mutton), eggs, small birds, fruits,
bread, boiled rice, biscuits, milk, &c., constitute its principal diet in
captivity. Eight to twelve plantains or some dates or other fruits and
a bit of bread or a little boiled rice, in the morning, between 8 and
9 A.M., and from a half to onerpOund of boiled meat in the evening
will be enough for an adult animal. Eggs, small birds, insects, should
be occasionally given as a change of diet. Some of the binturongs
were observed to have a strong partiality for a fruit diet consisting of
oranges, plautains, dates, &c., and lived for months without even touch-
in meat. None of the binturongs exhibited here appeared to like
fis , although some of them were fond of land and fresh-water snails.

Transport is easily managed : a box like that recommended for the
transport of a fishing-cat, with a shelf on one side, is all that is required,

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Convulsz'ons and fits are the principal diseases from which bintu-
rongs have been noticed to suffer in captivity. As the animals, in
almost every case, died suddenly, whlle apparently in the enjoyment of
health, no treatment was ever attempted. The binturong appears to
be one of the animals which have a special tendency to become fat,
probably owing to want of sufficient exercise.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A‘BINTURONG.

A. binturong is nocturnal in its habits, sleeping during the greater
part of the day and becoming lively at night. Its movements are slow
and somewhat cautious. None of the animals exhibited appeared to be
savage, though some were shy and suspicious: on the other hand,
several of them have been observed to get remarkably tame. They
are very cleanly in habits, spending much of their time after their
meals in cleaning their faces and lips.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(76) THE SMALL INDIAN MUNGOOSE.
(HERPESTES AUROPUNCTATUS~(Hadgs.) )
Hindi—Nelda. Bengali—B6577, Newl.

(77) THE COMMON INDIAN MUNGOOSE.
(HERPESTES MUNGO—(Gmel.))

Both these mungooses (76 and 77) are so common in Bengal that
no description is necessary. ‘

Hab.—-The small Indian mungoose is found in the Lower Himalayas
from Sikhimto Kashmir, in theNorth-West Provinces, the Punjab, Sindh,
Beluchistan, Kandahar, Southern Persia. It is common in Lower
Bengal, and is found as far south as Midnapore. It is also found in
Chittagong, Cachar, Assam, and Upper Burmah, and also 1n Arracan,
Pegu, and the Malayan peninsula. The common Indian mungoose has
also an extensive range of distribution, being found throughout the
Peninsula of India and in Ceylon also. On the west it extends as
far as Sindh, Afghanistan, and probably Beluchistan. It is found in
Bengal and Assam: not so common about Calcutta as the small Indian
mungoose.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.

The longest period during which a small Indian mungoose has
lived in the garden has been six years and a few months: the common
Indian mungooses have been very short lived, none having survived

more than two years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

, Housing.-—Arrangements similar to those recommended for housing
a small Indian civet or a genet will be found to answer well for these
creatures. A small isolated wire cage, with a proper roof and good
canvas screens as protection against cold and draughts, and a small box
inside for the animals'to sleep in, placed under the shade of a tree, and
standing on wooden legs some three feet above ground, or on a brick
platform of the same helght, is by far the best accommodation for a
pair of mungooses. Mungooses are very quarrelsome animals, and
therefore there ought not to be more than a pair in any single division.
They should have a thick bedding of straw to lie upon.

Food.——Minced meat, eggs, small birds, insects, bread, plantains,
820., form the ordinary diet of a mungoose in captivity; the more Varied
the food, thebetter for the health of the animal. Frogs, lizards, beetles,
snails, may occasionally be given. It easily kills a bird or a mammal
much larger than itself.

Breeding-No mungooses have ever bred inside a cage, but numbers
of them (H. anropunctatus) annually breed in the garden, where they
live in a state of semi-domestication. They breed in summer, and
litters have been found to consist of from two to six young ones.

Transport—These little creatures are so quarrelsome and pugnaci-
one that they have often been observed to arrive in a mutilated condition
when two or more specimens have been placed in a small cage. A,
deal box, 12 inches high and about 18 inches in length and breadth,

 

1N CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 75

will comfortably accommodate a pair of mungooses. Even a male and
female may fight unless they have been accustomed to live together

for some time.
TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea and dysentery are the principal diseases which affect
mungooses. No treatment could be adopted, as the animals refused
nourishment.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF MUNGOOSES.

Considering their size, they are very ferocious. When taken
young, they, however, become wonderfully tame and attached to
their owner. Adult animals seldom become tame enough, even for
exhibition in a menagerie: they either remain hidden away in the
straw or snap at the wire, uttering a querulous yelp, possibly expressive
of disgust at the approach of a man. They have been known to refuse
nourishment and to starve to death.

Of the two species above mentioned, an adult common Indian
mungoose is, perhaps, the least tameable. When they once become
accustomed to the new surroundings, their sullenness gives place to
sociability, and they behave as if they were the most affectionate
of creatures. They growl like tigers when eating. Although not
addicted to climbing trees in their wild state, mungooses in captivity
have been observed to take pleasure in climbing dead branches of trees
inside the cages.

(78) THE MALAYAN MUNGOOSE.
(HERPESTES BRACHYURUS—Gray.)

Descrzption.——General colour dark blackish brown, finely punctuo
lated with yellow ; head rather massive.
Huh—Borneo and Malacca.
'This animal has been recently acquired; it does not appear to
carry its body low like the other Mungoose.

(79) THE CRAB-EATING MUN GOOSE.
(HERPESTES URVA—(Hodgs.))

Description—It looks more like a small badger than a mungoose.
Head and body about 18 to 21 inches, tail about 11. Fur long,
coarse and ragged ;, under-fur soft and woolly. Colour of the body
varies much in different specimens, generally dusky iron-grey, some-
times, as in the case of one exhibited in the garden, whitish. A
white stripe runs along each side of the neck from the angle of the
mouth to the shoulder. Head much darker, almost black, and.
speckled with white; the lower limbs black. —

Hab.-———It occurs in the South-Eastern Himalayas at low elevations,
Assam, Arracan, Pegu, Tenasserim, and Southern China. A specimen
said to have been captured at J ulpigori was obtained in 1880.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a crab-eatin g mungoose
lived in the garden has been only about eighteen months.

 

  

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS ,

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Honsz‘ng.-—As it is semi-aquatic in its habits, the crab-eating
mungoose should be accommodated in a place where it can have easy
access to water. Its accommodation therefore may be provided in the
form of a pit about 3 feet deep, with a bath, a grotto, and a grass or
gravel promenade, the top being covered over with stout wire netting,
or it may be a cage, detached or built in connection with others, with
a bath and a grotto, or a box which serves the same purpose.

Food.--It is almost omnivorous; eats crabs, frogs, prawns, small
fish, minced meat, &c.

Transport—Besides the vessel for drinking water, another made
of zinc or iron should be given, and clean water put in during the
middle of the day when it is warm. If the journey or voyage is to last
for some time, the animal should be fed for a few days prior to its
departure upon such food as may be easily available during transport.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Nothin particular is known about the diseases to which this
animal is lia 1e.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

The Crab-eating mungoose is a restless, active creature, walking
about in its cage with heavy steps, and occasionally uttering a hoarse
subdued cry. Those exhibited in the garden had no bath in their
cage, but the animals could he often observed satisfying their aquatic
predilections by immersing a portion of their bodies in the gamla which
was provided as a substitute for a bath.

.J

(80) THE BANDED ICHNEUMON.
(CROSSARCHUS FASCIATUs-Desm.)

Description.——Resembles a common mungoose, but stouter in build,
Colour ashy grey, washed with brownish red on the back; fur rather
harsh; about the neck and shoulders the hair is tipped White: brownish
black bands across the posterior half of the back.

Hab.-——South-East Africa.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen obtained in 1886 is still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, &c., this s ecies
treated like the other mungooses. The animal now living 9,9522; 1;:
thrive well in a small cage about 4 feet high and 10 feet in circum-
ference, with a .00111031 roof made of light planks lined with zinc .
inside the cage 1s a small sleeping-box and a platform. Durin the
winter canvas screens are let down at night. One of these anlmals
developed a strong partiality for a bread diet.

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 77

HABITS.

. .Like other mungooses, it is rather heavy in its movements, and as
inquisitive and active as the rest of the species. It may he often heard
to utter the grating sound, like a mew, characteristic of the mungooses.

(81) THE STRIPED HYZENA.

(HYlEN A STRIATA~ZimmJ

HindimLakar Baglza, Hondar.

The hyaena is a well-known animal in Lower Bengal: no descrip-
tion is therefore necessary. The characteristic features of this animal
are its short hind limbs, and the long hairy crest along the middle line
of the back.

Hab.-—-Common in Central and North-Western India, extending
through South-Western Asia to Northern Africa. Though not so
common as in Western and Central India, it is not rare in Lower
Bengal.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living in the garden since 1879. Hyaenas

appear to be very hardy animals and bear captivity well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-Hyaenas being extremely quarrelsome animals, diffi-
culty is sometimes experienced in finding accommodation for them.
On several occasions they have been known to mutilate, through the
bars, a leopard or a wolf living in an adjoining cage, in spite of the
stout wire-netting attached to the gratings which separate the compart-
ments. It is safer, therefore, to have the partitions boarded up with
thin planks. It is undesirable to keep a number of adult hyaenas
together ; unless the floor is hard they burrow deep holes in it.

Food.—-In their wild state they generally feed upon caresses of
animals that have been killed by others or that have died of diseases,
and in captivity also they do not object to eat food which other
animals will not touch; it is, however, better to feed them on fresh and
wholesome food, regard being had to the artificial conditions of life in
confinement. Bones are indispensable to them; they break and
crunch up large pieces with surprising ease.

Transport—As they are much addicted to biting destructible
materials, a light iron cage should invariably be provided for their
transport, unless the habit and temper of the animal to be transported
is well known. A. case is on record in which an adult hyaena, sent by
rail from a station in West Bengal, escaped during the course of the
transit by biting through the Sal wood battens of its cage ; it was
found, on the arrival of the train at the Howrah terminus, comfortably
seated behind some bales of goods.

TREATMENT 1N sICKNEss.

Hyeenas have been known to die from inflammation of the
stomach. Some six years ago a female hyaena suffered from extensive
ulceration of the mucous membrane of its mouth, extending to the lips;
the animal could hardly eat anything for. about ten days, and was

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

78 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

l irritable. Takin advantage of its temper, nitrate of SIIVBI‘
lacitib‘iimviays applied to the ulogr : a small mop fastened to the end of .an
iron rod was dipped in the lotion and held out .to the animal, which
seized it at once by the mouth. The repetition of this operation
evidently gave relief to the beast, as it allowed 1tself, after a day or
two, to be doctored without difficulty.

Wounds and injuries are very common. amongst them: not long
a o a specimen was so severely attacked by its companion in the same
den that it had to be killed. Young animals, recent arrivals at the
garden, sometimes die without apparently suffering from any illness.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F HYJENAS.

Although nocturnal in habits in their wild state, they may be con-
stantly seen restlessly pacing their cage almost the whole day,“ espe-
cially those that have for some time lived 1n capt1v1ty: I‘heir mis-
chievous propensities, however, seem to be aroused at .night only. . 1}
hyaena is a very cowardly animal, so that the upralsed broomstlck
of the keeper drives it to the furthest corner of. the cage w1th 1ts tail
between its legs. They are sometimes very noisy at nlght, and their
cry is harsh and disgreeable. With regard to their cowardice, .lt‘ may
be remarked that, if required to do so, a plucky keeper has no difficulty
in going inside the den of an adult beast; it snarls, but shows no

fight
(82) THE WOLF.
(CANIS LUPUS—JLi/m.)

A black variety of the wolf was exhibited in the garden for a
few months, prior to its departure to the Zoological Society’s Garden,
London. It came from ’l‘hibet.

(83) THE INDIAN WOLF.
(CANIS PALLIPES—Sylces.)
Hindi—Bherz’ya. Bengali—Nekreh.

Wolves vary in colour; generally they are of an earthy-grey colour
with a brownish or fulvous tinge; some are entirely rufous. In some
the brownish tinge on the back is much mixed with black, whereas in
others there is a total absence of black. Black colour on the back
appears to be more common in older specimens. In very young speci—
mens there is a milk-white spot on the chest, which disappears when
the animal is about a month and a half old, giving place to a dark colour

below the neck.
Hab.-—-The Indian Peninsula. With the exception of a single

specimen from Purneah, most of the wolves have been received from
Behar and West Bengal.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A wolf has been living in the garden for the last eleven years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.~Adult wolves require substantial accommodation : they
have thriven when kept in a building of masonry structure somewhat of

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 79

the same style as that assigned for an orang, but smaller. They should
have an Inner sleeping room and an outer den provided respectively
With a platform and a bath, the latter being particularly necessary
during the hot weather. The walls should, in the case A of wolves, be
whitewashed, 1f practicable, oftner than for other animals, as this helps
to keep down the offensive smell inseparable from their residence.
Young wolves can be kept in wire cages with boarded floors or in small
portable cages.

Food.—-Beef, boiled or raw, according to taste. Like civets and
mungooses, they also eat bread, biscuits, and plantains. Tame wolves
may be fed exactly in the same way as dogs.

Transport—5N0 particular remarks are necessary.

TREATMENT 1N sICKNEss.

Two tame adolescent wolves had an attack of paralysis of the
whole body, brought on, it was conjectured, by sunstroke ; as the
animals were past recovery, they had to be killed. Another wolf
suffered from a similar ailment, and after lingering for a few months
died. In this case, however, sunstroke could not have been the cause
as the animal lived in a perfectly shady place. Young wolves generally
succumb .to draw/um. Something resembling St. Vz'tus’ dance was
observed 1n a specimen, but its nature was never ascertained ; the animal
recovered after some time.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or WOLVES.

Wolves when brought up as pets have been known to beeo
as dogs, showmgell their playfulness and intelligence and adgfveisirigni:
their names, coming up and receiving caresses. Whether quite adult
wolves would remaln as tame as when they were young is not knownu
Some'of the wolves living in the garden appear to be very fond of
paddling the water, especially during the hot weather, so that the floor
of their den is seldom dry. They are extremely restless animals and
may often be seen, like the hyeenas, rapidly pacing up and down,their
cages. flheir excitement and impatience are very great at the approach
of feeding-time. The wolves in the garden have not been known
to bark 1n the same way as a pariah dog, but they sometimes make
an attempt as 1t were, at barking, a subdued sort of a “ bow-wow ”
They have, however, been known to bowl a great deal, and add to the

. evening chorus of discordant sounds produced by the lion’s roar, the

cry of the jackal, and the plaintive note of the distant dingo.
For further information on the habits of the Indian wolf the

f"11°Wing works may be consulted:-—“F - - . ,,
ford ; 4‘ Jungle Life”-—Ball. auna of Brltlsh India -—Blan-

(84) THE JACKAL.

(CAN IS AUREUS—Linn.)

The jackal is such a well-known animal in Ben a1 th t
description is superfluous. Like wolves, j ackals vary a great deallih
colour. Quite adult and healthy specimens have a good deal of black

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

80 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

on the back and about the neck. Those brought up 1n capt1v1ty
are generally pale coloured. Albino jackals have on several occasmns
been received. A j ackal is subject to change of colour at dlflierent
ns of the ear. _
seas1011ab.———In<:lyia, Ceylon, Burmah, extending through South-West As1a
to the Caucasus, and found in South-Eastern Europe 1n Greece and
Turkey, and as far west as Dalmatia, also throughout; Northern Africa.
Very common in Bengal, infesting jungles, thickets, and open countries,
and found in hamlets as well as in popular cities like Calcutta. J ackals
live in a wild state within the garden, and not unfrequently commit
depredations amongst the deer and antelopes.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen obtained in 1876 is still alive.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—Although jackals are cunning and mischievous animals,
in captivity they have been generally found to behave well, and they
can, therefore, be kept in stout wire cages, but the floor ought to be
invariably made of planks or bricks, as they are somewhat addicted to
burrowing.

Food.—~Beef forms their ordinary food, but they eat fruits and
bread as well, and thrive much better on a mixed diet than solely
on meat.

Breeding.—-A1though jackals have never bred in captivity, they
breed freely within the garden in a wild state. The number of young
in a litter is from four to six, and during May and June a litter may
be forand in almost every drain of the garden and the adjacent
groun s.

Nothing particular is known of their diseases in captivity.

HABITS or A Morgan.

The habits of j ackals are well known and therefore very little need
be said. They are shy and suspicious; at least they have never been
known to become tame in this garden.

(85) THE BLACK-BACKED JACKAL.
(CANIS MESOMELAS-—Sckreb.)

More thick-set in build than the Indian jackal: saddle of the back
broad; fur thick. Colour brownish grey; a good deal of black on the
back. Changes of colour occur at different, seasons of the year.

Bah—South Africa.

(86) THE SIDE-STRIPED JACKAL.

(CAN IS LATERALIS—Sclater.)

Dcscription.—-This animal is “ distinguished from every described
species of. the genus by the black and white stripe extending along the
flanks, and the very long black tail with a distinct white termination.”

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 81

Its general form is elongate and the snout pointed. The stripes and
the general colour of the body are subject to change at different seasons
of the year.

Huh—West Africa. A specimen of this species was obtained
from Zanzibar, but whether it was imported from the west coast or was
procured in East Africa is not known.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A black-backed jackal lived for about six years, and a side-striped
species for about seven.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.--May be kept like an Indian jackal.
Food.-——The same as an Indian jackal.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Of the two, the side-striped jackal was tamer than the black-
backed species; it was not unfrequently observed to wag its tail in
recognition of kindness shown to it. It was as restless as the Indian
or the black-backed jackal, but was not suspicious. Neither of the
species was ever heard to cry. The stripes of the side-striped species
and the black of the black-backed one altogether disappeared during
the rainy seasons, appearing again in winter. They both liked dry
places, and their invariable habit during the winter was to retire to
bed early, perhaps to enjoy the warmth of the straw.

(87) THE DINGO.

(CANIS DIN GO ~Blumenb.)

Description.——It resembles the pariah do of India in appearance.
Ears erect, hairs about ears longish, tail slig tly curved u ward, with
pendant hairs underneath it. Colour brownish-red throng out, except
the chest and abdomen, where it is somewhat whitish.

Huh—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living since January 1882.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—As the animal has rather active habits, its
to be large enough to enable it to run backwards and forwgi‘dge agufili:
wont to do ; and, as its temper cannot be trusted, the cave ought to be
divided into two compartments, so that it may be shut ihto one while
the other is being cleaned. A sleeping-box, or more properly a kennel
should be provided. The specimen now living in the garden like;
wallowing in water during the summer, and a large earthen vessel is
sunk in the ground {)or £116 purpose.

Food.——Boiled ee is its ordinar diet, but it is '
allowed a roasted fowl or boiled mutton by way of change. occasmnally

F

 

 

82 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Transport-As it is an easily excitable animal, it .is better to trans-
port it in a cage in which it has the least chance of bemg excited.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Whether such an animal is likely to die from _convulsions is not
known, but the post-mortom appearance of the companlon of ‘the present
specimen suggested that belief. Unfortunately no autopsy was held.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A DINGO.

The dingo appears to be an excitable animal, and very restless
under ordinary circumstances. Though not savage, Its temper can
never be trusted. The specimen now in the garden allows the keeper to
go inside the cage to clean it. It has a plaintive sort of cry, of some-
what prolonged note, and may often be heard at nightfall, particularly
if there is a bright moon; it has never been heard to bark like a pariah
dog.

(88) THE INDIAN WILD DOG.

(CYON DUK HUN EN SIS—Sykes.)

Hindi—-Sona Kutta, Ram Kutta. Kayo of the Sonthals, K018 and
other aboriginal tribes of West Bengal.

Description—The general form of this animal is like that of a
jackal, but, though stout, it wants the compactness of the latter animal,
and there is a certain ungainliness about it, owing to the distended
appearance of its belly and abdomen, especially when one has lived
in captivity for some time. The tail is thick. The colour of the animal
varies somewhat, according to age, locality and season. It is generally
rusty red, slightly mixed with black on the back. Specimens obtained
from Western Bengal are generally paler than those from Assam,
Tipperah, and Burmah; the winter coat is thick and bright coloured.
Terminal portion of the tail black. The average dimensions of a wild
dog are, head and body, about 37 inches; tail about 15.

Bah—It occurs throughout the Himalayan forests from Kashmir
to Assam, in the jungles and forests of Western Bengal, and is found
in the larger forests of the Indian Peninsula, in Gilgit, Ladak and
other parts of the Upper Indus Valley, and has also been obtained
from Eastern Thibet.

Specimens have been sent to this garden from Burmah, Assam,
Tipperah, Darjeeling, Hazaribagh, and Vizagapatam.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.

No wild dog has as yet lived in the garden more than two years
and a few months. For some reason they do not appear to thrive well
in captivity.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—The animal being of extremely active habits in its wild
state, it ought to have a tolerably large cage, where it may take such

, .‘wn.._..:.w1‘*~

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. . 83

exercise as is possible. Wild dogs are not quarrelsome animals; two
or more can, therefore, be kept together in the same cage.

Food.——The want of success in keeping wild dogs alive for more
than two years has probably been due partly to the absence of exercise,
and partly to the nature of the diet, which consisted chiefly of beef, raw
or boiled. In their wild state they are accustomed to hunt and kill deer,
antelopes, and wild pigs for food, which not only implies fresh food,
but a considerable amount of exercise. The specimen now in the garden
is fed upon fowls, rabbits, mutton, eggs, and occasionally beef. 'En-
deavours are also being made to feed it upon bread, but as yet it has
not taken kindly to this food.

Transport-No particular directions are necessary, as it may be
treated like one of the cats or larger civets.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea and skin disease have been observed in wild dogs. The
diarrhoea was probably the result of unsuitable diet and want of
exercise. In May 1889 a mangy-looking wild dog arrived from
Darjeeling. On examination it was found to be suffering from exten-
sive skin disease; part of its body was bare, the fur that remained was
completely matted with the filth of the cage and the exudation of the
skin. The animal, being in the last stage of exhaustion, was fed before
being removed to a new and comfortable cage. When it had recovered
from the nervousness caused by travel and new surroundings, it was
washed with carbolic soap and tepid water, wiped dry and placed
in a separate cage with a thick bedding Of straw, and the whole body
smeared with a solution of phenyle. Some difficulty was found in
supporting its strength, as it would not eat properly. The next day
the matted fur was cut off and the body smeared with sulphur and
boracic ointment. Under this treatment the animal recovered in about
a month and a half.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A WILD DOG.

For a few days a pair of adult wild dogs were kept in a place
with a mud floor; they at once set about digging holes in it, and
made use of it, when finished, as a sleeping place, in spite of the pre-
sence of a deal-wood box which was given them for this purpose. A wild
dog does not appear to be as shy as a jackal or a wolf: it will stand or
sit quite close to the bars of its cage, and when sufficiently tame is
somewhat demonstrative. In captivity it has not been heard to howl
or cry, but sometimes one may be heard to utter a kind of squeaking
sound. It does not appear to be fond of water.

(89) THE INDIAN FOX.
(VULPES BE N GALEN S IS—Skaw.)
Hindi--Lomm‘. Bengali-Kkelm’al.

This is such a welloknown animal in Lower Bengal that any
description would be superfluous.

F2

 

  

 

 

 

84 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

I] b.-—Throu hout India from the base of the Himalayas to Cape
Comorih ; not knovgin to occur west of Sindh and the Punjab, nor east of
Assam. It inhabits the open parts of the country. Not uncommon
in the drains of the Calcutta maidan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which an Indian Fox has lived has
not been more than five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-New arrivals had better not be exposed for exhibition
at once, as the presence of other animals and other causes of excitement
sometimes frighten them so much that they may altogether refuse to eat
and drink. In this garden they are usually kept in one of the cages of
the Kuch Behar House. Either a hollow log of wood or a small box
within the cage forms an excellent place of retirement for these animals.
As some of them have been found to climb the wire partitions of their
cage, care should be taken to have it lined with thin planks.

Focal-The usual diet of these animals in captivity consists of
boiled meat, beef or mutton, eggs, and plantains. Some of them have
been found to be extremely fond of jack-fruits. They have often been
tried with rats, crabs and frogs, but in captivity they do not appear to
care for such edibles.

Transport—A. small box, 2 feet long, 18 inches broad and about
15 to 18 inches high, will comfortably accommodate a pair of these
animals. For a sea-voyage the arrangement ought to be somewhat
special, so that a box, smaller than that mentioned above, placed within
a wire cage, will answer very well.

TREATMENT IN sICKNEss.

With regard to their diseases nothing definite is known.

HABITS.

The habits of Indian foxes in captivity are uninteresting, as they
spend much of their time inside their sleeping box. For particulars of
their habits in a wild state, Blanford’s Fauna of British India
(Mammalia) may be consulted.

(90) THE COMMON FOX.

(VULPES ALOPEX-(Linn.))

Two varieties of the common fox have been exhibited in the
garden-the Vulpes Alopex, var. Montana from the Western Hima-
layas, and the common fox from the British Islands. Both of them
are much larger and more richly coloured than the Indian fox. Their
prevailing colour varies from ruddy chestnut to dull rufous, but it is
subject to much individual variation, especially in the Himalayan form.
The Himalayan variety exhibited in the garden had scarcely any cross
stripe on the shoulder, and differed from the European form in having

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 85

more black on the outside of the limbs. The summer coating of both
the forms is very shabby; by the middle of March they shed most of
their winter coat, the under fur becomes loose, and the animals look as
if they had rolled on a heap of wool.

Hab.——-The Himalayan form is found from Nepal to Kashmir
and Gilgit. The European form is found throughout Northern Europe
and the British Isles.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a common fox of Europe has
lived in the garden has been over six years; that of the Himalayan
variety has not exceeded four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—The general principle that should be observed is to keep
them in a cool airy place. In this garden they are generally exhibited
in one of the cages of the Kuch Behar House (see page 56). During
the warm summer days they should have cold water freely sprinkled
over them with a garden syringe, and to reduce the temperature of
the cage some wet straw or hay may also be put on its roof. From
March to October is the most trying time for these animals in Lower
Ben a1.

grFoodn-v'Four to six plantains and a little bread between 8 and
9 o’clock in the morning; one to two pounds of boiled beef in the
evening. The less beef is given during the hot weather, the better.
Besides plantains, the foxes will eat dates, oranges, pears and various
other fruits. Chickens and rabbits may occasionally be given as a
change of diet.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

These foxes have been known to die from convulsions and excitement.

HABITS.

English foxes become wonderfully tame. They wag their bushy
tails, roll on the floor of the cage, and utter a subdued chattering moan
expressive of recognition of a friendly visit. If a bit of bread or some
fruit is given to a tame beast, it does not eat without some demonu
stration of pleasure. They pant much and otherwise feel uncomfortable
during the summer. Both the English and the Himalayan foxes
have been observed to turn paler after prolonged captivity.

(91) THE INDIAN MARTEN.

(MUSTELA. FLAVIGULAmBodd.)

Descrz'ptz'on.-It has a slender body, short limbs and a long tail.
The colour of the head, face, nape, the rump, tail and the limbs glossy
brownish black; the back and the flanks pale brown; the chin and

 

 

86 A HAND-BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

td' t white; breast and abdomen brownish yellow. The. ears are
21111311. 1Iiiny its movements it resembles an otter, and has, like that
animal, an arched back. Two specimens, both said to have come from
Bhutan, differed in colour; one being much paler than the other : head

d b d 20 to 22 inches; tail 16 inches. .
an gulp—Throughout the Himalayas from the west of Kashmlr

to the eastern extremity of Assam; also throughout the hilly parts
of Burmah, the Malayan peninsula, and Sumatra. By some authomtles
it is said to be found in Southern China and even In Amurland. In
Southern India it is found on the Nilgiri hills, on the 'l‘ravancore

ranges, and in other portions of the country.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No specimen has lived for more than a year.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——-Both the specimens exhibited were kept like civets
and other smaller carnivorous animals in the Kuch Behar House.
The want of success in keeping them alive for a longer period had
evidently nothing to do with their accommodation.

Food.-——Boiled beef, eggs, and plantains.

TREATMENT IN SICKNEss.

Both the specimens died rather suddenly, and as no autopsy was
held, nothing can be said with regard to their diseases.

HA BITS.

Very restless, active animals, perfectly diurnal and rather sociable
in habits.

(92) THE WEAsEL.

(PUTORIUS VULGARIS—(Gmel.) )

Description—Slender and elongated in form. Its prevailing colour
is whitish brown, tip of the tail dark. Winter coat almost white.

Hab.-Northern Europe, Northern Asia.

A specimen lived for about three years in the garden.

(93) THE YELLOW-BELLIED WEASEL.
(PUTORIUS CA'I‘HIA—Hodgs.)

Description—A very small animal, measurin h a (1
about 9 to 10 inches, tail without hair 5 to 6 inches,gande:§ithl11girbfio:
6 to 7 11101168.. Colour of the back, face and upper surface of head dark
brown; the lnnbs and tail are of the same colour, but slightly paler.
Chm; upper lip an throat generally white ; chest, abdomen and inside
the limbs yellomsh or brownish yellow. In the specimen exhibited

the yellow became very pale after the animal had been a year in
captIVIt-y.

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 87

Huh-Himalayas. The Specimen obtained for the garden‘was

captured near Darjeeling at an elevation of nearly 7,500 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About eighteen months in this garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housz'ng.——As it is an animal of small size and cleanly habits, it

is much better to keep it by itself in a small cage.

Food.——The specimen exhibited in this garden was fed on sparrows,

eggs, minced meat, grasshoppers, and bread and milk. Ordinarily it
had about two ounces of milk and a little bread in the morning, and
either an egg, or a sparrow, and a small quantity of minced meat in
the evening. Rats were occasionally given, and it killed them with
great ferocity.

TREATMENT IN SICKNEss.

' This animal died from the effect of an abscess in its throat, which
did not admit of treatment.

HABITs.
It is an extremely active, inquisitive and blood-thirsty little animal.

To try its strength guinea pigs were occasionally put in its cage, and
it killed them with wonderful ease and rapidity. It was otherwise a
sociable beast; it twice escaped from its cage and did not stray far, but
. amused itself by hunting squirrels. ‘

O

(94) THE TAYRA.

(GALICTIS BARBARA—(Lin...) )

Larger in size than the Indian marten; prevailing colour brownish
black, a large yellowish white patch on the throat.

Hab.—--‘Tropical America.

A specimen lived for about two years in the garden. This animal

‘ had a remarkably heavy footfall.

(95) THE INDIAN RATEL.

(MELLIVORA INDICA—Km.)
Hindi—Bria, Bafar-bhal.

Descrz'ptz‘onr—This animal has a stout body and short limbs.
External ear almost wanting. The coloration is very well marked.
It is grayish White above, including the upper surface of the tail; lower
parts, including the limbs, black; face, the under surface of the tail and
its extremity also, black. A full-grown animal measures, head and
body, about 32 inches, and tail with hair about 6. '.

Hab.-—-Found in India generally from the base of the Hima-
layas. Specimens have been obtained from HaZaribagh (West Bengal),
Orissa, Oudh, Behar, and the Central Provinces.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Indian Ratels are hardy animals. A specimen obtained in 1876
lived till 1886, in which year it was sent away 1n exchange.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housefng.-—As the animal is much addicted to destroying materials,
it should be provided with a strong cage. One of them has been known
to break through the stout wire netting with whlch some of the cages
of the Kuch Behar House are built. It should not be placed in a
conspicuous part of a zoological garden, owing toOthe h1ghly offensive
smell attaching to it. It is, moreover, a dirty animal. The speclmen
that lived so long in the garden was kept in a circular cage about 8 feet
in diameter and 6 feet high. There was a sleeping-box placed on the top
and a stout branch of a tree fixed in the centre. Besides drinking-water
in a small iron vessel, there was a heavy stone trough full of water
which it often used as a bath.

Food—Its usual food consisted of boiled beef and some bread, but
it ate almost anything; fish, rats, crabs, frogs, eggs, entrails of chickens
were always acceptable to it ; it also relished boiled rice, milk and
plantains. . . . .

Transport—Care should be taken to prowde an Iron cage, as 1t bites
through wood in a short time.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The animal of which mention.has been made was observed to
suffer from diarrhoea brought on by 1nd1gestion. The usual remedy in
such cases was to starve it.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF AN INDIAN RATEL.

Although nocturnal in its habits in a wild state, it has been
observed to be wideawake during the day in captivity. The specimens
that lived in this garden were seldom found.to be inactive: they .would
either pace their cage or would be occupied 1n scratchmg or diggmg up
something. Though very active, they are heavy 1n their walk. From
the observations taken of these animals, they do not appear to be
altogether untameable. One of them had .a special fancy for un-
fastening a particular iron bar as often as 1t was fixed in its proper
place. It cleverly managed this by 1ts sharp. hookhke claws, and
repeated the act if, instead of the iron bar, a walkmg—stick or anything
else was substituted in the same place.

(96) THE HOG-BADGER.
(ARCTONYX COLLARIS-F. Cue.)

Hindi—~Bhalu-sdar or Baht-Sim

Descriptions—Stout in form, with short limbs and long truncated
snout, resembling that of a pig. Ears short. The prevailing colour
of the body and limbs is grey, but it varies considerably in individual
specimens, and also, it appears, according to age and length of life in

 

 

 

 

 

 

1N CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 89

captivity. A very dark example has been known to become whitish
grey after having been nearly four years in the garden : generally there
is more black on the back and part of the sides. The head is white,
a black band encircles the eyes and ears, and is formed by a stripe
which, commencing from the upper lip, passes over the eye and ear,
and by another from the chin which runs backwards across the chin
to the ear. These marks also vary. Throat, sides of the neck, and
the tail whitish, lower parts and limbs dusky, washed with pale yellow
or orange. The head and body of a full-grown animal measure about
30 inches, tail about 11 inches.

Hab.-Nepal, Sikhim, Assam, Sylhet, Cachar, Arracan, Pegu, and
Tenasserim ; has been also obtained from Western Yunan. Specimens

have been received from Darjeeling, Assam, J ulpigori, Tipperah, and
Chittagong.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a hog-badger has as yet lived has
been only about six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Its proneness to escape has been found to be great,
unless secured in a strong cage. The accommodation that has answered
very well for this beast consists of an iron cage, some 12 feet long,
5 feet broad, and 4 feet high, resting on a brick-on-edge platform.
On one end of the platform is a small deep tank, filled with mud and
sand, into which the animal can burrow at pleasure; besides, there is a
small box, inside which the animal remains during the greater part of
the day; during the winter a quantity of straw is given. A neat
little tiled shed shelters the cage and its inmate from sun and rain.
The floor of the cage for a hog-badger should be hard and well-built,
as the animal is much addicted to burrowing and clawing. Shower-
baths should be administered to it almost every day by a garden syringe
during the extreme hot weather.

Food.-—~The ordinary diet of a hog-badger consists of a pound or
two of boiled meat in the evening ; a few plantains or other fruits
and some bread are also frequently given them in the morning. They
are said to be particularly fond of earthworms, but this has not been
observed to be the case with the animals living here. On the other
hand they have been known to eat fresh-water and land snails with
avidit .

gransport.—-The remarks which have been made with respect to
the transport of a ratel apply to these animals also—that is, the cage
in which it is intended to convey them should be strong. Care should
also be taken not to expose them much in the sun. An occasional bath
is beneficial.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Besides a tendency to fatness on their part—probably owing to
absolute want of exercise—nothing is known with regard to their
diseases.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITs or A HOG-BADGER.

It is thoroughly nocturnal in habits, sleeping the greater part of
the day; when disturbed it becomes enraged and either darts at the
disturber with a hissing grunt, or retires further into the hole or box.
Its anxiety to escape has been already alluded to. Once a somewhat
tame animal was kept in an iron enclosure about 8 feet high; after
having been in this place for nearly a fortnight the animal disappeared
one night. To accomplish this it had not only to climb the fencing of
its enclosure, but a wall of equal height, the coping of which was stud-
ded with broken glass. Another animal effected its escape by breaking

open the roof of its cage.
(97) THE COMMON OTTER.

(LUTRA VULGARIS—-Erwl.)
Hindi— Ud. Bengali-Ud—bz'ddal; Manch-blzondor, that is, fish-otter.

(98) THE SMOOTH INDIAN OTTER.
(LUTRA ELLIOTI—Andemon.)

It is called Ladlzra in Sindh. . .
Otters are so common in Bengal that no descriptlon is needed.

These two species (97 and 98) have a great resemblance externally ;
if, however, they are carefully observed side by side, it will easily be
seen that a full-grown common otter is a slightly larger animal than the
next species, and that the upper edge of its naked muzzle or the pad
of the nose is not straight, but somewhat raised in the middle and
concave on each side, whereas the pad of the nose of the smooth-haired
species is almost flat.

Hab.-— The Indian form of the common otter is found almost all
over India and Ceylon, and is frequently met with in the nei hbourhood
of Calcutta. They have been obtained from Raj shahye, the underbuns,
J esscre, Rungpore, Midnapore, Bha ulpore, the Sonthal Pergunnahs,
Purneah, and Dacca. The smooth- aired species occurs throughout
India :' common in Sindh and the Punjab, and found side by side with
the common otter in Lower Bengal. This species has been received

from Sindh and the Punjab.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen of the common otter has been living in the garden
since October 1886. Otters have lived for periods varying from a few
months to five years. .A smooth-haired species lived from March 1876
to August 1887 ; another specimen from Bhawlpore (Punjab) has been
living since January 1889. ’

TREATMENT 1N CAP'I‘IVITY.

Housing.--Water is indispensable for the health and comfort of an
otter. The style of accommodation that has been found best suited to
their habits in this climate consists of an iron structure built on the

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 91

slope of a tank and enclosing a large area of water. The enclosure
may be 30 feet long and 15 feet broad, stretching lengthwise into
the tank, and built on substantial brick walls with somewhat deep
foundation, as otherwise the otter is not unlikely to work its way out
under the mud. The portion of the enclosure which is to remain under
water should be made of at least half inch thick iron rods, placed one
inch or an inch and a half apart from each other; the portion above the
water may be made of quarter inch rods, placed at an interval of an
inch and a half. Stout wire netting may be used for the roof, which
during the hot weather, should be covered with a slight thatching of
straw. If some extent of dry ground is not available inside the
enclosure, a wooden platform may be built and a sleeping box provided
For reasons to be explained later on, otters in this garden are some:
times kept in other and less comfortable places. Otters, unknown to
each other, should never be placed together.

Food.—-Their food consists principally of fish. Otters eat much but
waste more, if they have an opportunity of doing so. Two pounds of
[mi or singz' fish form the usual allowance of a full- grown otter, but their
appetite varies. Besides fish they eat crabs and frogs, and tame 'ones
have been known to become very fond of bread and biscuits. An otter is
therefore an expensive animal to keep, a full-grown one costing from
Rs. 6 to Rs. 8 a month. As far as possible young otters should not be
fed on Icoz' or singi, but on less bony fish. .

Transport.~—To trans ort an otter is b no means eas , es '
if it is to be sent by sea aIfid the distance isy long; the difigdtypfizbaliz
providing fresh fish. Fortunately, however, the [mi and singi fish
are hardy, and with a little care may be kept alive for a considerable
time. It is best to put these fish in an“ old earthen jar, but this
may be fractured on board a steamer; so the next best plan is to put
them in a wooden tub (half of a beer barrel) with plenty of tank weeds
and mud; a tub will hold from 10 to 20 pounds of fish; it should
be covered over with a piece of fishermen’s net, otherwise the fish will
escape; in such an arrangement the water need not be changed more
than once a fortnight. Grabs may also be sent, and otters may be fed
on eggs and chickens; but as they do not all care for such food it is
better to observe them and train them to eat such things before, deg.
patch. The cage for transport should be made with a sliding partition
so as to divide it at the time of cleaning into two compartments, other:
wise it will soon become very dirty and the animal will suffer. A
quantity of dry earth or sand should be provided to enable the animal
to roll over it, and the creature should be syringed or sprinkled with
water twice a day. On approaching cold latitudes both the otter and
the food—the fish when provided—should be placed somewhere near the

engine room.
Breeding.——Otters have never bred in this garden.

TREATMENT 1N sICKNEss.

Young otters, and sometimes adult ones also, have been known to
pine away and die. On one occasion a tame smooth-haired otter
suffered from an abscess ,in the throat; this was opened and the animal
recovered without any further treatment. These kept in places with

 

 

92 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

brick-on-edge or cemented floor sometimes suffer from a kind of foot
disease, no doubt brought on by constantly walking on the hard stone

floor.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F OTTERS.

Otters are extremely active, inquisitive and noisy animals. Al-
though in their wild state they are to a great extent nocturnal in habits,
in captivity they are lively during the greater part of the day. They
sleep during the day just as any other diurnal animal does. Although
otters are amiable creatures in appearance and extremely graceful in
their movements, they are sometimes very pugnacious and combative.
When one is allowed to remain for some time by itself, it becomes very
exclusive in its ideas, and strongly objects to the intrusion of strangers.
Attempts to accustom two or three of them to live together have several
times failed. It was thought that if one were introduced in a cage it
would be protected, and the older inmate of the premises would get
accustomed to its presence. N o sooner, however, was this plan tried
than the cage with the new otter inside it was dragged by the old one
into the water and held under as if to drown the poor creature. Hence
difficulties arise in housing otters, and often they have .to be kept in
places not particularly suited to their habits. Towards feeding-time
otters become very impatient and restless, and may often be seen
rapidly pacing up and down the cage, and every now and then standing
up in front of the door anxiously looking forward to the direction from
which their food is brought, and uttering shrill cries. As the familiar
figure of the keeper approaches with a bucketful of fish, the otter
becomes still more restless and impatient, cries louder and incessantly;
as the man reaches the door, the otter jumps into the water and dives
after each fish as thrown in. It brings up the fish in its mouth and
commences eating it from the head. Though extremely fond of fish
and mostly living upon them, otters have been observed to eat crabs
and small tarrapins with evident relish. Two tame otters, having once
escaped from an unfinished cage in which they were placed on arrival,
were allowed the freedom of the lake for a day or two, when, having
caught and eaten fish to their hearts’ content, they would divert them-
selves with extracting crabs and eating them. An otter has also been
found eating a bird. A number of whistling teals had at one time
been placed in the otter enclosure as an experiment. For the first day
or two nothing particular happened; early on the morning of the third
day one of the teals was missed, but no suspicion fell upon the otter until
on the morning of the fourth day it was found in the act of eating one.
The remaining birds were, of course, removed to a safer place.

There is an anecdote on record of an otter making friends with a
crocodile. Peggy, the oldest otter then living in the garden, once
managed to escape by digging a hole in one corner of the cage where
the bars rested on the mud. The operation having been performed under
water, it passed unnoticed till after the escape of the animal. Having
gained its freedom it took to amusing itself in the water, and baffled
all attempts of the keepers to recapture it, a large island overgrown
with shrubs and undergrowth giving it a great advantage over its
pursuers. Night supervening, the pursuit had to be abandoned

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 93

temporarily. Next morning the animal was seen disporting itself close
to the island, but on the approach of the men it disappeared until, after
considerable search, it was found hidden inside a burrow. Its bewil-
dered appearance betrayed something unusual which was not properly
understood till after the capture of the beast, when it was discovered
that all the time it had been keeping company with a crocodile in its
hiding place. That it ever escaped being devoured was a wonder. The
crocodile was killed. A common otter twice escaped, and on each
occasion it made for the nearest fish-market.

(99) THE CLAWLESS OTTER.

(LUTRA LEPTONYX—Horsf.)

The chief characteristics of this otter are that its claws are extremely
small and rudimentary, and in some specimens altogether wanting, and
that the third and fourth toes on all feet are considerably longer than
the others: the skull also of this species is much smaller than in other
forms found in India.

Hab.-—Inhabits the greater part of the Oriental region. It occurs
in the Himalayas at low elevations, and is found in Bengal, Assam,
Burmah, Southern China, the Malayan peninsula, and Java. Except at
high elevations on the N ilgiri and some other places, it does not occur
in the Peninsula of India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one has lived in the garden has
not exceeded three years.

With regard to housing, feeding, transport, &c., it may be treated
like other species mentioned above.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITs HABITS.

As far as they have been observed, the clawless otters are certainly
tamer than the other specimens, but not less noisy.

(100) THE RACOON DOG.

(N YOTEREUTES PROCYONOIDES~GrayJ

Description—Total length, including the tail, about 25 inches '
general colour grayish brown, with black tips to the hair; cheek and
legs dark chocolate brown; tail short, thick and pale brown with white
tips to the hair.

Huh—Japan and Amurland.

LENGTH or LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived about eighteen months Animals from su

. ~ ch
climate as that of Amurland are not likely, even under the most favour?-
able Circumstances, to thrive in Lower Bengal.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housz'ng.——The only chance of keeping such an animal alive is to
place it in a very cool and airy place, and completely sheltered from the
sun. With reSpect to the specimen exhibited in the garden, wet Mus-
kfius screens, hung outside the cage, were found useful in lowering the
temperature of the place during the middle of the day in summer when
the animal panted a good deal: a shower-bath administered with a gar-
den syringe was also beneficial. The best treatment, however, is to allow
it, when practicable, as much liberty as possible.

Food.-—-Eggs, bread, milk, fruits, small birds and meat. The
animal referred to above lived chiefly upon eggs and bread and milk.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The animal spoken of here suffered from an obstinate kind of skin
disease which baffled all treatment. After its death an autopsy was
held and its liver was found to be extremely enlarged, and almost all the
viscera enveloped in masses of fat.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A RACOON Doe.

This animal was very shy on arrival, but after some time in capti-
vity it became so tame as to respond to caresses and attention. It
appeared to be very lazy, probably owing to the enervating influence
of the climate: it was never known to eat before the evening was some-
what dark. Although generally silent, it had a soft mew, distinctly
eXpressive of pleasure.

(101) THE WHITE-NOSED COATI.
(N ASUA NARICA—(Limz) )

Descmjotz'on.-—Stout and rounded in form. The chief characteristics
of this animal are its elongated and tapering head, truncated nose and
long and hairy' tail. The colour of the fur blackish brown above
yellowish beneath; a good deal of grey about the head; tail yellowisli
black and ringed indistinctly.

Hab.—- South America.

(102) THE RING-TAILED COATI.
(NASUA RUFA—(Desm.))

Description-It is uniformly fuivous in colour, tail distinctly ringed.
Hula—South America.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

. A white-nosed coati lived for about five years, and the longest
period during which a ring-tailed coati has as yet lived has been only
a little over four years.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 95

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.--Coatis are hardy animals, requiring no special treatment
with regard to their housing; as they are rather destructive animals,
the cage needs to be strong. When kept in one of a series of cages in
a row, they have been known to bite other animals through the wire or
grated partition, whenever they had a chance; the partition separating
them from other animals should therefore be lined with thin planks or
stout wire of a small mesh. A small block of wood or a piece of stone
should be given them for scratching their claws on.

, Food-Boiled beef forms their ordinary, diet in captivity, but they
eat fruits, eggs, small birds, land and fresh-water snails, frogs, lizards
and beetles; they are in fact omnivorous.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These animals have been known to suffer. from diarrhoea and
dysentery which yield to change of diet.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A COATI.

Coatis are restless, inquisitive animals, poking their long truncated
noses into everything; their footfall is heavy, and their cry is harsh
and grating, but very subdued. They are bold animals, and although
not ferocious, their temper can never be trusted. ~

(103) THE KINKAJOU.

(CERCOLEPTES CAUDIVOLVULUS—(Pall.))

Description—General colour maroon brown; nose short, accu-
minated; ear oblong; tail elongate, hairy and prehensile. It is about
the size of a cat, but slender.

Hab.--South and Central America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which a specimen has lived in the A
garden has been only a little over three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housizzg.—-As the animal is fond of climbing trees it should have
a place ass1gned to it where it can indulge in its favourite habits, and
for the purpose the cage ought to be somewhat high, with dry branches
of trees stuck inside it. A wire cage, some 8 or 10 feet long, 6 feet
broad and 7 or 8 feet high, with a shelf and a box near the roof as a
retiring place, may answer very well. The cage may be either isolated
or In connection with any other structure. '

Food.-——Small birds, eggs, bread, milk and insects (the animal
that was exhibited in the garden had no liking for the latter).

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.
Nothing particular is known in respect to their ailments in
captivity.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A KlNKAJOU.

sin le s ecimen exhibited in the garden, slept much during
the dTaiylf butgwas generally active at. the approach of night. It was very
tame and never showed any inclination to stray when let Out of .a
morning. Its movements on the ground. were rather awkward, but It
was an expert climber. When enraged 1t drew back and hlssed, and

was very quick in striking with its forepaws.

(104) THE PANDA OR OAT-BEAR.

(ELURUS FULGEN S, F. 02w.)

cm‘ tion.—-About the size of a large cat, the head round, and. the
face slligi't 15:116. very broad; limbs short and stout, tail long and thick:
very prettily coloured, being yellow1sh red on.the back, head and tall,
the latter ringed and black tipped: the upper hmbs and the lower parts
of the sides generally much darker than the back; abdomen bI‘OWDISh.
Face and lower lips white: a stripe of dark brown or red runs. down
from above the eye to the corner of. the mouth ; It may .be Indrstinct or
altogether wanting. Ears white ins1de and at the margin outside, rest
of the outside black. Feet and the pads covered With hair, which
become thin and worn-out in captigity. The dimensmns of a full-grown

- e about 24 inches, tai .

cat bgzbal1South-Eastem Himalayas at elevations from 7,000 to 8,000
feet. As far as known its western limit is Nepal, but the eastern limit
extends through the mountain ranges north of Assam to Yunan, where,
in the higher mountain ranges to the east, It has, according to Anderson
(Anatomical and Zoological Researches), a greater numerical develop-
ment than in the Himalayas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period of a cat-bear’s life in the garden has been
only about twenty months. Considering the elevation at which these
animals live, it is not expected that they should thrive longer in Lower
Bengal.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——The only efficient method of keeping a cat-bear alive
and in health in a climate so strange to it as that of Oalcutta, 1s to allow
it as much liberty as possible, by which means the animal 18 enabled not
only to take plenty of exercise, but to find much of Its own food also,
and, as it is easily tamed, this can be accomplished .w1thout much diffi-
culty. The best plan is to locate a new arrival In a large airy cage
under the shade Of a tree, or better still under a bamboo clump. Here
it should be fed and attended until it becomes thoroughly accustomed to

 

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 97

its new surroundings, and begins to look out for food at the appointed
hours; it should then be gradually encouraged tO come out and climb
the tree or the bamboo clump, taking care always to shut it in before
darkness comes on. The animal will soon learn to come down Of its own
accord at the proper time. '

There is some drawback to this method of keeping animals in a
place much frequented by visitors, and the spot selected should therefore
be as retired as possible. Another method suggested is to tie it up to
a beer barrel with a chain and allow it to roam about; this has never
been tried.

Food.-———It eats plantains, dates, bread, milk, bamboo leaves and
sprouts, grass, eggs, and small birds, such as sparrows. The specimen
that lived in the garden for about twenty months fed mostly upon
bread. and milk, and as it almost invariably passed the day in a bamboo
clump, it consumed a good deal of its leaves and sprouts.

Transyort.—A cat—bear is an extremely delicate animal and cannot
endure heat; it should not, therefore, be brought down from the
hills except during the winter, even for the purpose of sending it away
tO some other congenial climate. Its journey in the plains should be
so arranged as to be performed by night and early morning. A light
cage with bamboo or round wooden sticks on all sides should be pro-
vided; a plank box will suffocate it. For a sea voyage it may be placed
in the ice-house of the steamer While passing the warmer latitudes.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Cat-bears have been known to die from convulsions.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A CAT-BEAR.

In captivity a cat-bear is placid and inoffensive, and becomes
within a short time tame and docile. Its movements are awkward and
slow on the ground, but it is an excellent climber. One of the speci-
mens that lived in the garden has sometimes been observed to sleep
on the bamboo clump in the angle formed by the crossing of bamboos.
This animal held its food—bread, plantains, or even eggs-in its fore-
paws. It was never observed to drink milk by inserting its lips, but
always by lapping very gently and quietly. In captivity it is generally
a very silent animal; but when angry or otherwise irritated it utters a
“sharp spitting hiss.” '

For further particulars on the habits of cat-bears the following
books may be consulted:-Mammals of India—Jerdon; Fauna of
British India-Blanford; Proceedings, Zoological Society, London,
1870, “on the habits of eat-bears,” by Bartlett.

(105) THE POLAR BEAR.
(URSUS MARITIMUS—Linn.)

It is distinguished from all other species by its perfectly white
colour.
Huh-«Polar regions.

 

 

 

98 A HAND-BOOK .OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen lived from March 1886 to November 1887.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——A polar bear is one of those animals which should
never be acquired for exhibition in this climate, The animal here re-
ferred to was merely deposited by a dealer who had sent it to this
country for sale, and every. device that could possibly be adopted to
mitigate its sufferings was tried. It was placed in one of the coolest
dens of the Carnivore House, and a bath was especially built for its com-
fort. During the hot weather fifteen seers of ice were daily given,
which it enjoyed very much, often crouching upon a large block, or
otherwise making the best use of it.

Food.—-Its food consisted of milk, bread and biscuits in the morning
and about three pounds of fat mutton in the evening. Fish and live
plgeons were also occasionally given.

Transport—Any remark on this head is perhaps unnecessary.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

This animal after having been about a month in the garden became
subject to rather extensive swerficz’al ulceration of the fore parts of its
body, involving the ears and upper front limbs. This originated in a
slight abrasion which it inflicted upon itself while rubbing its shoulder
and ear on a large piece of wood. So rapid was the progress of the
disease, that within three days the whole front part of the body became
one mass of superficial ulcer. While being treated for the ulcer, the
right ear suppurated and became full of maggots. Fortunately every-
thing sooon yielded to the persistent use of a weak solution of corrosive
su 1ma e.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

This animal had a peculiar habit of constantly sliding backwards
9n the smooth wet floor of 1ts den-some relic probably of its way in
my regions.

(106) THE BROWN BEAR.
(URSUS ARCTOS—Linn.)
Hindi—Barf-ka-rz'nclz.

Both. the European and the Himalayan forms of brown bear have
been exhibited 1n the garden. The only difference that has been
observed 18 that of size, the Himalayan form being smaller than the
EurOpean variety; the former is also lighter in colour than the latter but
theshades of colour vary a great deal in both. The fur of the European
1viriuetyBaplpelars tp be 1pafuch more fihaggy than in the Himalayan

r. o ave on IS ur on the s oulder, formi
givmg the appearancegof a hump. ng a bushy Wit and

 

 

 

”WM-o»

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 99
Huh—The brown bear has a wide range of distribution, being met
with throughout the greater portion of the Pualaearctic region. In Europe
it is found in Norway, Sweden, Russia, Siberia, Poland, the Pyreaiees,
and Northern Europe generally; in temperate Asia it 1s foun T I1n
Northern Siberia, Kamtschatka, Amurland, and the Himalayas. re
Himalayan form extends from Afghanistan as far east as Nepal, and is
common in the Astor Valley and the Gilgit dlstrict. Specimens have
been obtained from Kashmir and Kumaon.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A air of the Euro ean variety have been living since December
1887, arid a pair of Himailayan brown bears from March 1884.; the former
lived for a number of years in the menagerie of the late King of Oudh

before their arrival here.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Except during the few months of winter, the climate of

Bengal is generally uncongenial to these animals, and much depends,

therefore, upon the kind of accommodation assigned to them. The
house must be well protected from the sun, and be at the same time
cool and airy; besides a copious supply of pure drmkmg water, there
must be a bath into which it may be necessary to put a quantity of 106
during the warmest days of summer: a grotto or dark chamber, With a
platform for the animals to sleep upon, 1s also necessary. Like most other
animals, bears are very susceptible to damp, which should be av01ded as
much as possible, so that, where the houses are low, a wooden. platform,
in addition to that inside their sleeping chamber, should be given them
in the outer den also. In the construction of the house wood‘should .be
avoided as much as possible, as most bears are addicted to gnawmg it;
the wooden posts, when used should be lined W1th iron or zmc. lhese
bears are powerful animals and some of them are 'mlschievous also, so
that accidents have sometimes happened by trusting to their prev1ous
ood conduct and neglecting to take extra precautions 1n securing them:
they have been known to bend three-quarters of an 1nch thick wrought-
iron rods with ease where the cross bars of Iron strengthemng them were
from 2 feet 6 inces to 3 feet apart. . .
Food.—-May be fed with boiled rice, sugar, vegetables, fruits, eggs,
bread, biscuits and milk; meat is occasronally given them, .but every
individual has not the same relish for it. Ordinarily borled rice, sugar,
a little milk and some vegetables are given them. One of the female
brown bears is a great epicure, refusing to touch any food unless borled
eggs form a large proportion of 1t. “ ' ” .
Transport—Tor the reasons stated under Izousmg, an 1ron
cage is indispensable when it is required to transport one of these
animals. Not that they have never been conveyed 1n a wooden cage,
but it is on the whole safer to have an iron one; the same style of cage
as has been recommended for the transport of a 11011 or a t1ger W111 also
do well for a bear, but for the latter the top and bottom of the cage

should also be made of iron gratings. 0
G H

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

' ‘n .---Youn brown bears have been known to suffer from
teethtgglmll‘lie animalgwhen suffering from this ailment refuses food and
salivates a good deal; if this continues for two or three days olzarrhcea
supervenes. NO specific treatment has ever been adopted In such
cases beyond giving milk and soup to support. the strength of the
animal, and aromatic chalk powder to check the dzarrhaa.

Inflammation and ulceration Of the lips are sometimes caused by. an
ill-tempered animal, especially if it is new to the place, rushing against
the gratings Of the den with violence, cauSIng thereby slight abras1on of
the mucous lining of the lips which become. swollen and Inflamed. An
animal with such habits ought to have Its cage so barricaded as to
prevent visitors coming too close. Lips when ulcerated may be touched
with weak solution of nitrate of silver or borax and honey. ‘

Diarrhoea and dysentery are not uncommon among these animals ;
bael in the several forms already mentioned (page 3), Dover’s powder,
aromatic powder of chalk, are some of the medicines adminlstered In
checking them. By way of diet the animal should have milk and bread,
soup and eggs if necessary. . . .

Constipation from various causes Is also not unfrequent; 1n ordl—
nary mild cases 4 to 8 ounces of raisins will be foundwery effective;
if, however, it is caused by hepatic disorders, 30 grains of .chloride
Of ammonium should be given in milk and sugar every morning until
a healthy system is attained.

Ulceration of the throat and mouth, probably brought on by
exposure to chill and sudden change in the atmosphere, Is a very
troublesome complaint, causing a great deal of suffering to the beast.
The animal when subject to this disease behaves as if something were
sticking in its throat; it constantly opens its mouth, protrudes its
tongue, and moves its head from side to side, indicating great discomfort
and pain.“ The difficulty Of treating such cases consists in inducing
the patient to eat; this, however, may be overcome by confining the
animal to milk diet alone for three or four days ; by way Of medicine
chlorate of potash, 20 to 30 grains in each dose, may be administered
with sugar and milk three times a day, and the mouth touched with
weak lotion of nitrate of silver. These animals have been observed to
abstain from food, without any apparent illness, for three or four days.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF BROWN BEARS.

The European brown bears are rather slow in their movements,
and walk with measured steps, and though they often make a rush
towards the gratings of their den, as a Himalayan brown bear does
under similar circumstances, they appear to want the agility of the
latter; this may, however, be due to the difference in their size and
bulk. Both the European and the Himalayan forms shed their winter
fur in March, and about this time they look much smaller than they
did a few days before when they had their winter coats on; they are
very fond of water, and may, during the summer especially, be constantly
seen in their baths. They become somewhat noisy at the approach of
feeding time, and Of the two varieties the European is perhaps more

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 101

clamorous than the other. The noise they make is a sort of deep
guttural wail with a nasal twang. When hungry they eat up their usual
food, consisting of bread and milk or boiled rice and milk, with great
rapidity. Their mode of attack is very peculiar. They stand erect on
their hind legs, move backwards a step or two, and then plunge
forward and strike round with their forepaws. When fighting
between themselves, they also confront each other as above. They
sometimes hug each other playfully, uttering, all the time they are
thus engaged, a kind of monotonous howling cry Often interrupted
by an angry growl. Their vision appears to become somewhat afiectedc.
by captivity. The Himalayan brown bears, especially adolescent
animals, run very swiftly at a gallop. One of. a pair of, these
beasts once managed to escape at night by climbing thei sides ;of;.
its cage, which was at that time built of stout gurran poles; squeezing
itself out through a small space between the roof and sides Of the cage,
it found its way into one of the unoccupied rooms of the arsenal in
Fort William, and was captured the next day after much anxiety and
trouble. Although the space through which it had escaped was closed
in and all possible precautions taken to confine it, it escaped a second
time by biting through a portion of the fencing. It was, however,
discovered just outside the garden by one of the watchmen, whose
attention was called to that direction by the barking of pariah dogs.

The fugitive was soon circumvented and captured after an exciting chase
all over the garden.

(107) THE GRIZZLY BEAR.
(URSUS HORRIBILISwOrd.)

This species of bear attains to considerable size. The specimens
exhibited in the collection were, however, small animals, the larger of
the two, the male, not measuring more than 5 feet 9 inches. The front
claws are comparatively larger than the hinder ones, and curved like
those of the sloth bear. Fur coarse and abundant, longer on the neck
than in the rest of the body; its colour varies from grey to blackish
brown; the limbs, especially the lower parts, are much darker than the
rest of the body : tail very small. In the specimens under observation
the tail was scarcely visible in the winter, when the coat was dense
and thick; they looked very pale in summer, when the coating became
thin and ragged.

Hab.-North America, chiefly the Rocky Mountains and the open
grassy plains and prairies adjacent.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
The maximum period of life of this species has been only three
years and ten months.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

HoaszTng.—-—This may be the same as for the brown bear, though
modifications may always be necessary to suit special peculiarities. -

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

102 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

e were three da s in the garden, a pair ofgrizzly bears
Heighedzlmgging the roof of 3the sleeping chamber of their new habita-
tion, so that it had to be raised and other Incidental alteratlons made.
These bears also must have plenty of water durIng the hot weather. .

Food.-—Grizzly bears have never appeared. to be fond of animal
food, their large canines notwithstanding. TheIr ordlnary food cons1sts
of boiled rice, sugar, biscuits, and vegetables, beSIdes which they
consume a large quantity of fresh grass daily.

Transport.-~This may be managed as In the case of a brown bear.

'r' (I ..

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS. .
.‘iBoth thespecimens died somewhat suddenly. No autopsy was

. if. 'lield’in the case Of the female; in that Of the male, Wthh died much

later, the symptoms supported the conclusion that it had died from
convulsions.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A GRIZZLY BEAR.

A grizzly bear resembles the other species in manners and habits.
The male bear exhibited in the garden was rather mischIevous, as
already mentioned. It would raise itself on its hind legs on the wooden
platform to get at the roof, and, not content with simply scrapin off
the plaster, it would try to pull down the bricks also With Its ong,
sharp claws. On one occasion it managed to escape by bending one
of the wrought-iron rods forming the enclosure of the passage leading
into the sleeping room. Though mischievously inclined it was neither
savage or ill-tempered, so that, having got out, its next anxiety was
how to return. Having moved a little way from the opening it had
difficulty to rediscover it, and to do so it appeared to make more use
of its sense of smell than of sight. These bears only became somewhat
noisy at the approach of feedingvtime.

An excellent account of the habits of this species in a wild state
will be found in Richardson’s Zoology of the Northern Parts of British
America.

(108) THE HIMALAYAN BEAR.

(URSUS TORQUATUS—Wagner.)

Hindi-B/zaln. Bengali—Bizalulc.

The size of these animals varies considerably. A specimen, over
9 years old, from Mergui, at present living in the collection, does
not exceed 3 feet in length from nose to seat. The largest Hima-
layan bear living in the garden measures over 7 feet 6 inches. The colour
of this species is black throughout, excepting the white horse-shoe
mark on the chest; the fur is very smooth, sleek, and abundant,
especially during the Winter: the tufts of longish hair on the shoulders,
giving the appearance of a hump, are not so conspicuous in this species
as in the brown bear. In young individuals the forehead and nose
are sometimes grey, and the general colour also varies a great deal. In
some individuals there is a large patch of white under the chin, while
in others none or very little.

 

 

 

 

 

f. “M,

AWMM A

I

  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 103

Hobs—The Himalayan black bear occurs throughout the forest
regions of the Himalayas and extends through parts of Afghanistan
into Beluchistan and the west frontier of Sindh. Eastwards it is found
in the Assam ranges extending into Burmah, Pegu, and Tenasserim.
The first authentic knowledge of its occurrence in Mergui was obtained
by the acquisition of two young specimens from that place in 1883.
The Himalayan black bear is also found in Southern China, Hainan
and Formosa. The black bears said to occur in the plains of Eastern
Bengal are likely to be of this species, as sloth bears are mostly
distributed in Bengal along its western frontier and the countries
bordering it.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a Himalayan black bear has as
yet lived in the garden has been a little over fifteen years, and it is
still alive and well. It may be remarked in this connection that the
animal referred to here lived for about eighteen years in the Viceroy’s
menagerie at Barrackpore prior to its presentation to this garden by
His Excellency Lord N orthbrook.‘

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housings—The same general principle which has been recommend-
ed for the brown bear should also be observed in this case. The
house which has been assigned to the large Himalayan bear has been
one of the most successful habitations for bears in the garden, as the
excellent health which its inmate has generally maintained de-
monstrates. The building consists of a dark cave, a central pit covered
with a roof and provided with a bath, and a raised enclosure which
serves for a promenade.

Food.——Boiled rice, boiled gram, bread, biscuits, fruits, vegetables,
eggs and milk. Usually it gets either a seer of rice or gram boiled,
about 4 ounces of sugar and some vegetables in the morning, a
loaf of bread, some biscuits, an egg with some vegetables in the
evening: the animal is extremely fond of sugarcane and juicy fruits;
if an orange or a plantain be given, it immediately sets to peeling them
in a most methodical and businesslike way. During the summer the
large Himalayan bear is generally fed only once a day to prevent its
getting fat. The feeding of an animal like this costs from Rs. 10 to
Rs. 12 per mensem ; smaller ones cost proportionately less.

Transport—The same remarks as have been made with regard to
the transport of a brown bear apply to bears generally. ‘

Breeding.-—Himalayan bears once bred in the garden, but the
young one was unfortunately still-born.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Several deaths have been caused by inflammation of the lungs.
When very young animals have been concerned and a diagnosis
carefully made, fomentations have been applied and ammonia and
vinegar internally administered, but as far as it is known without any
success. Diarrhoea and dysentery are also common among Himalayan
bears, but they soon yield to treatment when timely adopted.

 

* This animal has since died.

  

 

. 1. «mm»,

 

 

 

 

104 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

Congestion of the liver has been known to cause death of these
bears: an animal lately succumbed to general debility and exhaustion
caused by hepatic disorders. The only symptoms being constipation
and want of appetite; an attempt was made to give it castor oil in milk,
but it could not be induced to take or touch anything. On examining
the body after death the liver was found to be enlarged, the gall bladder
full of bile as black as ink, and the surface of the liver deeply coloured
with bile pigments. This animal when alive was extremely lazy.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or HIMALAYAN BEARS.

The experience gained in the management of these bears in
captivity does not support the belief that they are more savage than
brown bears ; it may be so in their wild state, but the case is certainly
otherwise in captivity. The temper of bears can never be trusted,
whether it be a black or brown bear. Although heavy in their
movements, the young Himalayan bears are generally very active
creatures, and extremely fond of, and expert in, mounting a tree. It
is surprising with what ease and facility even a large and unwieldy
beast sometimes climbs a tree or the bars of its cage. The large black
bear in the collection is gradually becoming old, but three or four
years ago it used at times to climb the bars of its cage and amuse
itself by pulling down the straw from the projecting cave of the roof
and breaking the ornamental fringes bordering it. It may still be
seen walking round and round the narrow ledge of the wall of its
pit, and it is astonishing. how such a huge animal, which appears to
move with difficulty owing to the great weight of its body, can walk
and even turn round in a place where a man can hardly stand. The
thickness and bulk of this beast are most apparent as he sits, human
like, lolling against the side of the cage, one of the hind limbs drawn up and
the corresponding forelimb resting upon it. It has been observed to be
rather a common habit with animals in captivity that when they once
become habituated to a particular place and mode of life they stoutly
object to a change. This large bear is one of such animals. It having
become necessary on one occasion to remove it to another part of the
garden, a strong roomy cage was placed against the door of its house,
and arrangements were made for its removal, but every attempt to
induce it to enter the cage was frustrated. Although the animal had
been starving for three or four days and was hungry and uncomfortable,
it showed such dogged obstinacy that it became necessary to abandon
the attempt. Himalayan black bears are seldom noisy, and they have
never been observed to suck up their food like the brown or sloth bears.
The habit of sucking the ear of a companion, or the animal’s own
limb, is not uncommon among creatures of this species.

(109) THE BLACK BEAR.

(URSUS AMERICANus-Pazz.)

The American black bear is a smaller animal than either the
Himalayan black or the grizzly bears. An adult animal seldom exceeds
5 feet from the tip of the nose to the tail. The specimen living
in the collection is about 4 feet in length and is uniformly black
throughout, the nose and a portion above it is brown or greyish brown ;

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 105

a whitish brown patch on each side of the lips; its forehead is slightly
convex, ears prominent and oval, and are placed far apart than in the
grizzly hear. The fur of the body long, shining and smooth, and that
about the shoulders wavy. The claws are black and generally covered
by the long dense hair of the feet.

Hab.-—-North America, from the Atlantic to the Pacific, and from
Carolina River to the shores of the Arctic Sea.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living since April 1888.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hoasing.—-May be treated like the others. It must not be supposed
that, as being an inhabitant of a cold and temperate region, it can
be left exposed with impunity to draughts at night during the winter.
During the summer it must have plenty of water in its bath, as it likes
to wallow in it to keep itself cool.

Food—The specimen now in the collection is fed on biscuits chiefly;
vegetables and grass it also eats, but boiled rice has been found not to
agree with it.

Transport.——The same as the other species.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

This bear has several times suffered from diarrhoea and hepatic
disorders ; the former was probably due to unsuitable diet, and the latter
to want of exercise. Change of diet and habitation did much good.
While recovering from diarrhoea it became subject to a kind of skin
disease ; to arrest the progress of this, sulphur and borax, two parts of
the former, and one part of the latter, were freely used as an external
application, and had the desirable effect ; flowers of sulphur mixed with
sugar was given internally.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

Mild in disposition. Unlike the brown and the grizzly bears, this
animal is less addicted to rearing on its hind legs (though this may be
the peculiarity of this particular animal, which is somewhat lazy in all
its movements). It sleeps much during the day, and when the bath is
empty makes use of it for a bed: during the winter it carries all the
straw it is allowed for bedding to this place to lie upon. It receives
caresses with evident delight, and is extremely friendly with the keeper.
It is not at all noisy. For further information the books mentioned in
connection with the grizzly bear may be consulted.

(110) THE MALAYAN BEAR.

(URSUS MALAYANUS—Rafles.)

Description.——A full-grown Malay bear seldom exceeds 4 feet and
6 inches in length. The chief characteristics of this species are its short
fur, small and rounded ears, and a very long tongue. Its short and

 

 

. . Egan“: .
s - NWiamfewnwfifififif’i‘n’“ 7. ,.f,é*’var-r «er. - , 1 . . .,:.w».... 4.-

 

 

 

 

106 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

broad skull gives it a peculiar physiognomy, and its short close fur makes
it look elongated in form. The colour of the animal is black, the forehead
grey, and the muzzle pale grey; chin almost whitish: a semi-circular
yellowish white patch on the chest, which is, however, variable in size in
diflerent animals; claws are long and sharp and of a horny gre colour.

Hab.~——In India, the Garo Hills and eastern districts of Hill i pperah
and Chittagong; found also in Tenasserim and Burmah, and extends
through Malay peninsula into Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The maximum period during which one has lived in the garden
has been a little over three years only, from January 1876 to May 1879.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.‘-—No special remarks are necessary on this point, except
that as this species is particularly of an active habit and very fond of
climbing trees, its habitation should be built accordingly. It would
conduce greatly to their welfare if some arrangements and plan could be
devised by which all bears in captivity in a hot climate could be
compelled to take more exercise than they are in the habit of taking.
The Malay bears do not require a bath, except occasionally during the
very hot weather: during the winter they should be well protected from
cold. The young and even adolescent beasts may be lodged with other
species. of the same age and strength, but older animals become
pugnacious.

Food.—-—It thrives best on a mixed diet consisting of vegetables,
boiled rice, bread, biscuit, egg, and milk Ordinarily biscuit is the best
food f0r this and other species. Young animals should have milk and
bread or milk and soaked biscuit or boiled rice and sugar. These bears
are extremely fond of honey and sweets in general, and are also fond of
insects; they do not care for meat, but readily kill chickens and rats, and
have been seen invariably to tear open the entrails, whether they eat them
or not cannot, however, be said with certainty.

Transport-Though small in size and less powerful than most
other species, it is, nevertheless, an animal that requires careful handling.
Its propensities to mischief are great, and it is ever seeking to escape
from its prison; lately a specimen strangled itself while on board one of
the river steamers from Assam to Calcutta.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

An adult Malay bear, which lived longer than others of its kind in the
garden, died from diarrhoea and awaiting; it was probably a case
of gastritis. Young ones have sometimes been seen to die rather
suddenly from convulsions: they also sufier from teething.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A MALAYAN BEAR.

i Far more active than other species whose habits have been observed
in this garden; it paces its den constantly and rapidly, climbs the bars

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 107

of its cage and swings from them. It is generally good humoured
and playful, and affords more amusement than other bears. The
younger ones are excellent climbers, and, if allowed, will remain during
the greater part of the day on a tree, scrambling from branch to branch
or sitting hidden in its thick foliage. The adult Malayan bear, which
lived in the garden between 1876 and 1879, was in the habit of
snatching away umbrellas, sticks, hats, and caps f1 om visitors who
ventured too near its cage and evidently enjoyed the fun of their
anxiety to get possession of the lost articles, which it never dropped
until they were gone from the place. This bear exhibited a remarkable
attachment to its keeper, whose caresses and attention it enjoyed and
reciprocated.

‘ (111) THE SLOTH BEAR.

(MELURSUS URSINUS-é-(Shan)

Bengali—Bhulu/c.

This is the common bear of the plains. Its distinguishing character-
istics are its elongated and mobile snout; large, powerful, and curved
claws; coarse and shaggy fur, and short, unshapely hind legs. Its
colour is black throughout, except the end of the muzzle, which is dirty
grey; a white horse-shoe shaped mark on the chest; claws white or
grey. The hair along the middle line of the back parted. The average
length of a sloth bear is about 5 feet, males being larger than the
females.

Bah-Throughout the hilly and jungly parts of the peninsula of
India ; its western limit is Kattywar and Cutch, its range northward is
limited by the Indian desert ; but taking India generally, the northern
range of the animal is the base of the Himalayas; its eastern limit
is probably confined to Western Bengal. Specimens have been received
from Midnapore, Orissa, Manbhoom, Sonthal Pergunnahs, Gya, Mirza-
pore, Hazaribagh, and its neighbourhood.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Though living probably within twenty miles of Calcutta, these
bears have been found not to bear captivity well, so that the longest
period that a specimen ever lived in the garden has been only about
six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—Cages such as have been described for other species are
suitable for this also. Wet, damp, and cold should be avoided as much
as possible. The popular method of keeping bears in a pit, as in the
London Zoological Garden, is altogether unsuited to a hot climate. The
mortality among animals so treated was sufficient to demonstrate this.

Food.—- Biscuits agree admirably with most bears, but some will not
touch them. All like sweets more or less, and sugarcane is a favourite
food of all. As in their wild state they chiefly feed on fruits, and
insects, and, amongst other things, the fleshy sweet petals of the mowha
flower (Bassia latcfolz’a), which they greatly like, honey, the young of
bees, beetlis and larvae, and ants, it is no wonder that they do not

 

 

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108 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

thrive in captivity, many of these articles being difficult to procure at
reasonable prices. Attempts were at one time made to lay in a stock
of mowha flowers, but failed, as they would not keep fresh, and stale
mowha was found to be deleterious rather than beneficial. On the whole,
biscuits, bread, gram, Indian-corn, sugarcane, and various kinds of
fruits are the articles of diet that can be most recommended for this or
any other species of bear. In feeding sloth hears. it must be remembered
that they have a peculiar habit of sucking up their'food, and it is there-
fore well to lubricate it if it happens to be boiled rice, bread, &c., With a
little milk: fresh grass should always be given them. Sometimes
animals become so partial to the food they are brought up on from
infancy, that they would rather die of starvation than taste anythin g
else. A. pair of adolescent sloth bears were once sent down from
upcountry, and in the usual course the ordinary food for bears was-offered
them, but though hungry they would not touch it; other articles of
diet were supplied, but again they were left untouched; milk, bread,
biscuits, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables, raisins, eggs, pupae of ants,-—in
fact everything constituting a bear’s diet was procured and in turn
offered, without avail. At last it was ascertained that they were
accustomed to feed on chappatz' and ddl. It was, however, too late for
one of them, which had already died of starvation. The surviving
beast is thriving apace on this diet. .
Transport—It may be transported like any other spemes.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhoea, dysentery, and hepatic disorders are the ailments from
which these bears suffer in captivity. Bael in some form or other and
aromatic powder of chalk are the best remedies for diarrhoea. In very
mild cases no medicine should be given, but the diet changed.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A SLOTH BEAR.

This bear is a familiar object, as it is the one commonly led about
by jugglers and itinerant showmen and taught to dance. It has, it is
believed, to suffer no little cruelty while being trained for these exhibi-
tions. In captivity some sloth bears become very tame, but generally
they are not sociable animals. The young ones are playful enough up
to about a year old, repaying caresses and advances with their antics
and amusing tricks. They appear to be more intelligent about this age
than when they grow older. Confinement and adult age sour their temper.
Like other species, they rear up on their hind legs when suddenly
confronted or frightened, but cannot retain this position long. Under
ordinary circumstances they are not noisy, but when angry utter a
kind of rapid snorting grunt. This may be observed when an ill.
tempered beast, resenting the approach of anybody near its cage,
rushes towards him at full speed. The young ones are, however,
more noisy; they have the curious habit of sucking their limbs, generally
their forepaws, or the ears of a companion, keeping .up the while a
kind of continuous half-subdued humming sound. Adult bears are also
known to do the same. They are excellent climbers.

For further information about the habits of these bears, Blanford’s
“ Fauna of British India, Mammalia,” and Colonel MacMaster’s “ Notes
on J erdon’s Mammalia ” may be consulted.

 

 

1N CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL.

(112) THE TREE SHREW.
(TUPAIA ELLIOTI—Waterhouse.)

In general appearance it resembles a squirrel, but its teeth and point-
ed head show that it is not one. Its colour is yellowish brown, speckled
above, with a variable tinge of rusty red on the upper surface of the tail,
the rump and back. The whole upper surface is often uniformly rusty
brown; lower surface of the body whitish or whitish grey; a distinct
shoulder stripe present. Length of the head and body of a full-grown
animal from 7 to 8 inches ; tail with hairs 8 to 9 inches.

Hab.——A large part of the peninsula .of India. The hills near
Monghyr have supplied the garden with spemmens.

LENGTH OF LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

No specimen has lived in the garden for more than nine months.

TREATMENT iN HEALTH.

Housing.-—Having regard to its habits in a wild state, it may be
treated like a squirrel. It should have a tolerably large space, pro-
portionate to its size and suitable to its active habits, carefully avoiding
damp and wet. As it is not addicted to biting and gnawing like
a squirrel, thin wooden frames may safely be used for its cage. A small
retiring box is indispensable to its comfort.

Food.—-Being insectivorous, it may be fed on cockroaches, grasshop-
pers, crickets, beetles, &c. ; it also eats eggs, minced meat, and may be
tried with bread and milk.

Transport—No particular remarks are necessary, as it may be easily
transported like civets and smaller cats.

Habits.-—Its habits and movements, though essentially active, are
distinguishable from those of a squirrel. It is very shy in captivity.
For detailed information about the structure and distribution of this
animal the following books may be consulted: “ Anatomical and
Zoological Researches ”--Anderson; “ Fauna of British India——
Mammalia”-—Blanford.

(113) HARDWICKE’S HEDGEHOG.

(ERINACEUS COLLARIS—Gray & Hardw.)

Hedgehogs are small ratlike insectivorous animals; their charac-
teristic feature being the presence of small spines on the back and sides.
They are popularly known as Kantachua or Shutdown-that is, spiny
rat or porcupine rat. In this Species the spines on the head are not
divided by bare space in the middle line, and its colour is dark.

Hab.-—-Throughout the Punjab, Sindh, and North-W'estern India.

I

 

 

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110 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

(114) THE SOUTH—INDIAN HEDGEHOG.

(ERIN AGE US MICROPUS—Blytk.)

It is distinguished from the preceding species by having a naked
furrow in the middle line of the head, thus dividing the spines into two

groups and also by its pale colour.
Hab.—-Plains of Southern India.

(115) THE COMMON HEDGEHOG.

(ERIN ACEUS EUROPEUS—Linn.)

Hab.—-The common hedgehog inhabits almost the whole of Europe
excepting the northern countries. Its eastern limit is as far as the
Caucasus.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

. Of the Indian species one lived for about eighteen months. This
cannot, however, be said to have been the maximum period of a
hedgehog’s life in the garden, as some of those that had been turned
loose could occasionally be seen long after they had been set at liberty.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

As most of the Indian species inhabit the driest regions of the
country, these animals are not likely, unless kept in a dry place, to
thrive in the damp climate of Lower Bengal. Several methods
of housing them have been tried. Perhaps the most effective was a
wire cage, with plank bottom, raised about three feet off the ground;
and as it formed one of a series built under a substantial shed, it
was perfectly protected from moisture: the animal remained hidden
under the thick straw bedding during the day. As other specimens
were obtained, the plan of giving them an opportunity to burrow
and live in comparative freedom was tried. In a well-drained spot,
a masonry enclosure, 10 feet long, 5 feet broad, and about 4
feet deep, with solid brick-on-edge bottom, was prepared and filled
up with earth; a Wire cage placed over the whole and a number
of hedgehogs put in. This was in winter, and for some months their
appearance and habits indicated nothing but the success of the
experiment. They came regularly out of their burrow every evening
to feed and looked very lively and quite at home. During the rains,
however, the earth in the masonry tank became saturated with
moisture, and the creatures looked very dull and were less regular
in attendance at their meals. One wet morning after a showery night
the earth was found to have sunk considerably, burying some of the
hedgehogs under the mud. Another batch of hedgehogs was turned
altogether loose. These lived for some time and enjoyed their freedom.
Some of them would show themselves of an evening close to the spot
where they had been originally placed.

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 111

Food.-—Grasshoppers, cockroaches, boiled eggs, and even bread
and milk. One of those that were loose in the garden was observed
feasting upon small mellipedes, which are numerous during the rains.
It is also believed that they eat ants.

Transport-This presents no difficulty, and requires no special
contrivances. '

Nothing is known with regard to their ailments.

HABITS IN CAPTIVITY.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, and during the day remain
concealed under the straw of the cage or any hiding place they can
find. Though night feeders, they do not object to eating during the day
in captivity, especially those that become familiar with their new
surroundings. They have the peculiar habit of completely rolling them.-
selves up into a ball when touched or disturbed. Hedgehogs, like
porcupines, have the power of suddenly jerking backwards, no doubt
for the same purpose of hurting their assailants; they never do so when
they become tame and familiar. In captivity here they have never
been heard to utter any sound. -

(116) THE SMALLER GYMNURA.
(GYMNURA SUILLA—(Mz‘éller & may.“

The smaller gymnura somewhat resembles a shrew. It has no
spines, and the tail is naked or nearly so ; head elongate, ears compara-
tively large and naked. The colour of the body above rusty brown,
below yellowish white.

Had—The smaller gymnura is found in Burmah, the Malay
peninsula, Sumatra, Java, &c. A specimen, said to have been captured
in Tenassarim, was obtained in 1883.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No specimen has hitherto lived in the garden longer than about
eight months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—It is arboreal in habits, and may be treated like a tree
shrew in this respect.

Food.——Cockroaches, grasshoppers, and various other insects and
their larvae ; in captivity it will also eat eggs, bread and milk.

Habits.-—-The animal is nocturnal, but like many other nocturnal
animals in captivity it is wakeful and active during the day; ts move-
ments are somewhat like a squirrel.

 

 

 

 

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A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(117) THE GREY MUSK SHREW.
(CR(ECIDURA CERULEA~(Kem~.) )

Hindi—Chlmclaandm'. Bengali~0hhunchm

This animal is so common in Lower Bengal that any description is

unnecessar . . . .
Bah—{The same species that is found about the habitation 1n

Bengal is also found in Burmah, Ceylon, and so me islands of the Indian
Ocean.

It has never been kept for exhibition, although specimens have
several times been caught and temporarily placed 1n cages. They do

not bear confinement well. _ .
Food—Its food consists of cockroaches, crickets, and other insects.

It also eats minced meat and frogs. During the early part of the rains,
when tiny frogs are abundant, a musk shrew may sometimes be seen
feasting on them.

During July and August young musk shrews may be seen accom—
panying an old one, probably their mother, 1n her foraging excurs1ons
round a room or habitation. When kept in cages they remain com-
pletely hidden under the straw during the day.

(118) THE INDIAN FRUIT BAT OR FLYING FOX.

(PTEROPUS MEDIUS - Temm.)

Bengali—Edda! or Badur.

This is a common animal in Bengal. Its colour varies. Some speci-
mens are much lighter than others.

Huh—The flying fox is found throughout India, Burmah, and
Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1881.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—Their cage must be high, shady, and cool, as they are in
the habit of roosting in a retired place during the day, and cannot bear
light or much heat. In this garden the flying foxes are kept in one of
the divisions of a large aviary, in company with the crows and magpies.
Though incongruous, the arrangement has not been disturbed, as the
heterogenous party appear to do well and live in harmony. The flying
foxes hang head downwards, and prefer to claw with their hind feet on
to the wire netting of the cage, disregarding the sticks which are placed
across the cage for their use.

Food.-—F1ying foxes are fruit-eating animals, and feed on all sorts
of garden fruits—plantains, jamun (Eugz'nea jamboZa-na), almond, various
kinds of figs and other fruits. In captivity they readily eat bread‘and

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 118

milk, biscuits and boiled rice, and drink often, especially during the
summer.

Breeding—Flying foxes have several times bred in the garden,
and have only one young at a birth. It firmly clings to the breast of
the mother, and remains in that position for about a month.

Transport—Flying foxes are by no means amiable in disposition,
and if a number of them are confined in a small space, they are apt to
quarrel and bite each other. There must be some netting or bars

in the cage from which they can suspend themselves.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF FLYING Foxns.

Their curious instinct of hanging head downwards has already been
mentloned. They do this nearly all day. The head is slightly raised,
and the chin touches the chest. Sometimes also the creature envelops
itself in its wing membrane. The specimens in this garden afford an
excellent illustration of the adaptation of habits to external circumstances
and altered conditions of life. Althou h essentially nocturnal animals
in their wild state, in captivity they zed and drink regularly during
the day. They watch keenly for their food, and as it is placed inside
the cage they scramble down the wire netting, and while still holding on
to the wire snatch a plantain or a piece of any other food and scramble
up again. Like other animals, they will quarrel for the same object,
whether food or other trifle. In captivity they are seldom noisy. Their
large ears are very sensitive, and may often be seen in a state of
vibratory movement. They have a disagreeable smell.

(119) THE LESSER FRUIT BAT.
(CYNOPTERUS MARGINATUS—(Gequ )
Bengali—Ofiam-chz'ka.

Very common in Bengal. The size and colour vary in the specimens
obtained from different localities. Its distinguishing feature is a white
narrow margin in the ears. Size very small, a full-grown animal
varying from 3% to 4% inches.

Huh—Found throughout India.

These animals do not appear to bear captivity well, and they are
so well known that perhaps it would be better to dispense with the
exhibition of them in Calcutta. They are exclusively frugivorous, and
hundreds may be seen of an evening congregating round a fruit-tree or
a plantain grove. Sometimes they venture inside a house, and dazzled
by the light flutter about. During the day they roost on the eaves
pnd rafters of old buildings, and under the surface of the plantain
eaves.

(120) THE BLACK HILL SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS GIGANTEUS—McC'lelland.)

All squirrels are designated Gilliam in Hindustani and Katbidal in
Bengali. No specific distinction is popularly recognized.
H

 

114 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Descriptions—Length without tail more than 12 inches; black or

. ' ' d
dark brown above, brownish yellow below ; ears tufted , thlckness an

length of the tuft vary. from Nepal t0 Assam, the hills betWeen Assam

and griiiIE-hflalhnglggbr Burmah. All the specimens exhibited were

‘ ah.
from Tipper LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

' ' ' f them lived
t al erIod during whleh any 0
has blign r1322)? 1333131520 lilavepbeen found to be generally hardy, and

to bear captivity well.

(121) THE JAVAN SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS BICOLOR~SparM

' ' different

t. The colour of the body varIes In
'NO ear 81?: 5:331:11 from Batavia had the upper part of ltlhewlfi?
Zgigtlgdn;ellowish, head, cheeks and throat Whltlsll or greyis ,

' - h'n also of the same colour.
' feet ggbtilfidgfdiflglifirhgfi 331i fShi'ough Tenasserim and the Malayan

' orneo.
peninsula, the Islands of Sumatra, Java, and B
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly four years.

(122) THE LARGE INDIAN SQUIRREL.
(SCIURUS INDICUS—Eml.)

' - bove with a
' as the S. Gaganteus , red and black a ,
yellovafogcgigifitaalngejddfi; feet yellow lilge t(11:1e 1Illnder surfagffa ;aeeg§evs(:;yl 513%
fth s ecimens 61th its ere were .
23:381. b33312 0shadiZs Iirary according to the locahty from thch they are
3

Obtahllqegé ”The Indian peninsula generally, south of the Gangetic

' e
plains from Guttack to Travancore; has also been recered from th
Nepal Terai and Mampur.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Upwards of nine years.

(123) THE LONG-TAILED SQUIRREL.
(SCIURUS MACROURUS—Eml.)

' led black and
‘ f the u er surface Of the body ngzz _
whites:l '11:. ($13; 0or whitepgccipital patch; feet black; the outsIde Of the

' ' tufted.
' 'k th under surface , ears very shghtly
llmbificlgbflylfdlhiilli‘ahge: of Southern IndIa, NIlgIris, Shevaroys, and

‘
Ghats Of Travancore and Leylon.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About six years.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 115

(124) THE HOARY-BELLIED GREY SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS LOKROIDES—Hodgs.)

Smaller than any of the receding species; length Of the head and
body about 8 Inches; tail a out 6 inches; colour Of the body above

rufous Olive brown; under surface much paler, or rufous hoa .

Hab.-From Nepal eastwards through the Himalayas to ssam, and

southwards through Manipur to Arracan, Preparis Island and Upper

Burmah. The specimen exhibited here was received from the district
of J essore. '

A black variety, referable to this species, was obtained from Cachar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From 1880 to 1889.

(125) THE COMMON STRIPED SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS PALMARUM—Linn.)

Well known in Bengal, and abundantly found in a wild state
within the garden.

Had-Found all over the peninsula of India from the Terai region
of the Himalayas southwards; westwards as far as Persian Beluchistan;

and eastwards as far as the north-eastern boundary of the district of
24-Pergunnahs.

(126) THE ORANGE-BELLIED GREY SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS BLANFORDI—Ji‘lyth.)

Grey above; tail tip black; feet yellow ; below orange.
IIab.—-Upper Burmah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Two years and about five months.

(127) THE RUFOUS-NECKED SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS PREVOSTI—Desm.)

Upper parts black; tip Of the tail with a reddish chestnut tint; the
side Of the face and lower jaw, the side Of the neck and the shoulder and
humeral region grayish white; a broad band of yellowish white runs
along the side, extending over the outside of the thigh to the heel; under
parts maroon chestnut.

This species is subject to great variations, according as they inhabit
different areas; but so constant and well marked these variations are

H2

 

 

 

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116 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

that zoologists have divided them into local races. One of these com-

ited is the Sumatran race (8. mfii’esiz'). It is distinguished

l hib _ .
1fir-10011111yotallbrs by a large white spot on the s1de of the. muzzle, by. Its
greyish or brownish cheeks and side of the neck, and by 1ts red fore hmb

and shoulder. A variety with under parts white has also been
exhibited. . ' .

Hab.—-—-The Malay pemnsula, Sumatra, Banka, Billiton, Borneo,
and the Celebes.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly five years.

(128) THE PLANTAIN saUIaEEL.

(SCIURUS PLANTANI—Ljung.)
Olive brown in colour.

Hab.-—Oommon in the islands of the Indian Archipelago.
A young specimen lived for about three months only.

(129) THE GREY SQUIRREL.

(SCIURUS CINEREUS—Linn.)

Of an uniform grayish brown colour; tail bushy; under parts white;
sides of the face and feet with yellowish cinereous tint.
Hab.——Eastern United States westward to the plains.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen is living since 1881.

(130) THE COMMON saUIEEEL.
(SCIURUS VULGARIS~Linn.)

Brownish red above; under parts white.

Huh—Europe and Northern Asia, as far south as the Caucasus,

Thibet, and Northern China.
LENGTH OF LlFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

Nearly eighteen months.

(131) THE RED-BELLIED FLYING SQUIRREL.

(PTEROMYS MAGNIFICUS~Hodgs.)

The limbs are united by an expanded membrane; colour Of the
back dark maroon chestnut, with black tips to the hairs; the head and
neck also of the same colour, with yellowish tints; the hairs about the

M

1

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 117

muzzle and eye almost black; the expanded membrane is yellow near
the back and orange red towards the external margin; the yellow Of the
membrane extends over the shoulder; the limbs orange red; the tail
orange red, broadly tipped with black; the under parts are pale orange
red; total length of the body about 16 inches, tail 22 inches.

Had—Himalayas from Nepal to Sikhim; has also been received
from the KhasIa Hills. The specimen living in the garden was obtained.
near Darjeeling.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Living since 1880.

(132) THE GREY FLYING SQUIRREL.

(SCIUROPTERUS FIMBRIATUS—Gray.)

Of a pale greyish colour above hair on the outer ed e of th h'
foot thick and bushy, extending frbm the tarsal. joint togthe baseeof ill:

fifth toe.
Hab.-—North-West Himalayas from Gilgit to Kumaon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housings—The frame work of a squirrel’s cage should be made of T
or angle Iron, .as wooden posts are generally gnawed through, especially
by larger species. The netting used should be woven of stout galvanized
ere,.0f small enough mesh to prevent the smaller squirrels escaping -
the size of the cage should be at least 4 feet square. A series of such
cages bmlt on a platform about 3 feet high under a permanent shed or
chabutra 18, perhaps, the best accommodation that can be assigned them
The platform maybe either a brick-built one with ventilators below or
made of 1 Inch thick planks resting on posts; the partition of the cages
should also be made of planks, with holes here and there for ventilation
Each cage should be provided with a retiring box fastened to the parti;
tron wall a few inches below the roof. A bedding of hay or straw both
made the box and on .the floor of the cage, will be much apprec’iiated
by .the animals ; av01d wet, damp, and cold. The cages for flying
squirrels should be larger and higher, with dark corners for the animals
to retire dlu'Ing the day. A thick tuft of jute or hemp hung from
a corner of the roof, some balls, or an ordinary wheeled bar logs of wood
will glipve the? occupation and enjoyment. , ,

ood.-—- ruits, nuts, biscuits, gram, Indian-corn, and 0th '
and vegetables. Soft food should be avoided as much as possibl: £3,321;
drinking—water algays. ,

Breeding.—- xcept the common stri ed s ecies s '

bred in this garden : they rarely breed inpcaptirvity. , qulrrels have 110‘;

 

 

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118 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

Trans ort.—-—A. ca e two feet long, about a foot broad and high
will accomhgiodate a paii It should be boarded on all sides except the
front, where wire netting should be employed. There should be a shelf
inside the cage for the animals to sleep upon; a. straw or hay bedding
will give them both warmth and concealment, If necessary. A little
projection from a side of the cage to introduce the feeding and dunking
vessels is a better arrangement than placing them on the bottom. 1f
possible, flying squirrels should not be brought down to the plains In
summer.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Worms in the stomach and intestines have been found after death.
If their presence is detected when the animal is alive, one or two areca
nuts daily for a few days will do the patient good; a few drops of .011
of turpentine dissolved in about half a tea-spoonful of caster or olive
oil is an efficacious remedy. It may be made into an emulsion by beating
it with yolk of egg. Biscuits or bread smeared with it wfll be readlly
eaten. Abnormal growth of the front-cutting teeth, or incisors, 1s gen-
erallv induced by improper feeding. It may be arrested by feeding the
animal on hard substances; but if immediate relief be necessary, filing
of the teeth should be resorted to. The squirrels, and for that matter
all rodents, require something hard to nibble at to keep down the grow-
ing point of their incisors, and a few cocoanut shells and small logs of
wood should therefore be allowed them. Inflammation of the lungs is
another complaint from which squirrels have been known to suffer.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF SQUIRRELS.

Squirrels are restless, inquisitive creatures, always supremely busy
about nothing. Some of them become so tame in captivity that, on a
cage being approached, its inmate may invariably be seen at its side
awaiting food or a friendly greeting. If a nut or a bit of bread be
thrown in, it at once springs upon it kitten fashion, takes it into Its
fore paws, sits upon its haunches, with its bushy tail arching upon its
back, and begins devouring the morsel bit by bit ; if alarmed, it bounds
away uttering sharp chirping notes, and seeks concealment in its nest
box. Soon it may be seen peering from the nest-hole, satisfied that
there is nothing to be afraid of ventures out, but quickly withdraws
on the first alarm. Most of the Indian species are tamer than most of
those from the Malayan islands. The flying squirrels are nocturnal
animals; they sleep during the day and come out at night.

(133) THE HIMALAYAN MARMOT.

(ARCTOMYS HODGSONI—Blanf.)

Description.—-Form thick-set, legs short, tail short, general colour
dark grey with a rufous tinge; fur of the head and back mixed with
black; tip of the tail dusky brown.

Huh—Nepal, Sikhim, and Bhutan.

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 119

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
,Over three years.

(134) THE QUEBEC MARMOT.

(ARCTOMYS MON AX-—( Linn.) )

Huh—Extends as far northward as the Hudson’s B d
ward from the Atlantic coast to Missouri, Iowa, and Minnzgdtgfl west

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From November 1880 to June 1884.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, the marmots should be
erally. treated 11k.e“the squirrels, a cool and well-ventilated cage bgfdlg
the prInCIpal requISIte. .It 1s a burrowing animal and appreciates a mound
of dry clayey earth, which may be given in a tray about 18 inches square
and about 9 Inches or afoot deep. During the hot weather a bath should
be provrded, but as It has never been observed to readily take to water
a cold douche may be applied by a garden syringe. ,

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF MARMOTS.
Marmots are retiring in dis ' ' ' ' '
. . pos1t10n, remainlng durm the reater
part of the day Ins1de a box or buried in earth or straw? Spegcimens

exhibited in this garden regularl lost their fur duri
assumed a new coat at the approagh of winter. ng summer, and.

(135) THE PRAIRIE MARMOT.

(CYNOMIS LUDOVICIANUS—(Ord.))

Description.—-It resembles the marmot, but is somewhat smaller;
colour of theupper surface of the body reddish brown, with a few grey
and black hairs scattered here and there; the under surface of the body
browmsh white; tail short and somewhat flattened.

Hab.——North America; the prairies east of the Rocky Mountains.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Living since April 1884.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

. Housing.—-Ordinarily these animals may also be housed like the
Himalayan and the Quebec marmots, but they would prefer being kept
loose on a small island, where they can dig and burrow as they like.
A. number of them were once placed on a large island overgrown with
trees and shrubs, but they all disappeared within a short time : whether
they were devoured by the crocodiles which then infested the tank, or

drowned in their attempts to swim over to the mainland was never
ascertamed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

120 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

F00d.~—In addition to such articles of food as are mentioned under
the squirrel, these animals should have grass and roots.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF PRAIRIE MARMOTS.

These animals are fond of living to ether, and are extremely .wary,
shy and quick in their movements. hey burrow with astonishing
rapidity, and their power of deep mining was tested by placing
about a dozen of them inside a kiosk, of which the foundation walls
were sunk some 6 feet deep to prevent their digging out. The result,
however, proved the utter futility of the precaution, which was, Of course,
adopted in ignorance of their habit of deep digging.

(136) THE COMMON DORMOUSE.

(MYOXUS AVELLANARIUS—(Linn.) )
About 3% inches in length, with a bushy tail, and of a reddish

tawny colour.
Hab.—- Widely distributed over Europe.
A Specimen lived for about a month only.

(137) To (145).
No detailed description is required.

The rats from No. 137 to No. 145 may be exhibited in small
boxes with perforated zinc sides and glass front, placed on tables or
shelves in the side of a house. The rats may be fed like any other
smaller rodents, but they are omnivorous, and when hungry will nibble
at bones, meat and eggs.

(146) THE RED-CHEEKED BAMBOO RAT.

(RHIZOMYS ERYTHROGENYS —Andr.)

The distinguishing characteristics of this species are its bright
golden red cheeks and sides of the head generally, the dark occipital line
extending forwards to between the eyes, and the absence of any white
mark on the forehead, which is present in the allied species (B. Sumatran-
sz‘s). Total length from the tip of the nose to the end of the tail more
than 14 inches.

Hab.-—-Shan States of Upper Burmah and Mergui.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It met with accidental death after having lived for about three
months only.

(147) THE CHESTNUT-COLOURED BAMBOO RAT.

(RHIZOMYS BADIUS—Hadgs.)

Smaller in size than the preceding species; colour of the fur chest-
nut; quite adult Speeimens are slaty grey.

Huh—Found in the Himalayas from Nepal eastwards and extends
through Assam Manipur, and Arracan to Burmah. It does not appear
to be found further south than the northern part of Tenasserim.

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 121

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

There is no record of the actual period, but specimens have been
known to thrive well for at least three years.

(148) THE COYPU.

(MYOPOTAMUS COYPU- (Mai) )

Descriptions—Length about 23 inches; general colour of the body
above dusky brown; the sides and underparts brownish yellow; the
muzzle and chin white; tail thick and tapering; ears small; front-cut-
ting teeth large and powerful.

Bah—South America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From June 1882 to December 1885.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.———The bamboo rats should be treated like the marmots.
The experiment of allowing them to burrow underground was tried, but
unfortunately resulted in the death of the animals for whose benefit the
arrangements were made. The ground sunk after a heavy shower, and
the animals were buried alive. The coypu rat must have water, and
an. accommodation similar to that recommended for the otter is most
suitable: In building its cage :1- inch iron rods should be used, as it
Will eaSIIy cut through any wire netting, however stout.

Food.-—The same as squirrels and other rodents. In their wild state
the bamboo rats feed largely upon roots of bamboos. This may easily be
supplied in captivity also.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F BAMBOO AND OOYPU RATS.

Bamboo rats are lazy, but not shy or timid; during the day they
sleep much; the coypu is very sociable in disposition, fond of water,

and rather awkward in their movements on land.

(149) THE SHORT-SPINED PORCUPINE.
(HYSTRIX LON GICAUDA—Marsden.)
Hindi—Shaka Bengali—Sajdru.

Very common all over Bengal, and found in a wild state within the
arden.
g Hab.-—-Himalayas from Nepal eastwards, Lower Bengal, Assam,
Burmah, and the Malayan peninsula, extending to the islands of
Sumatra and Borneo.
Specimens obtained from Java appeared to differ in no way from
the present Species.

 

 

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LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Some have been living since 1878.

(150) THE INDIAN CRESTED PORCUPINE.
(HYSTRIX LEUCURUS-Sylces.)

Hab.——-—India as far west as Sindh and Beluchistan; northwards
extending to the Himalayas, and southwards to Ceylon. It is not found
in Lower Bengal. Its eastern limit probably does not extend beyond

Hazaribagh.

(151) THE EUROPEAN CRESTED PORCUPINE.

(HYSTRIX CRISTATA—(Linn.))

This species does not appear to be specifically distinct from the Indian
crested porcupine, so far as its external appearance is concerned.

Hab.-—Scuthern Europe and Northern Africa, ranging as far as
Zanzibar. A pair exhibited here some years ago came from the latter

country.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN OAPTIVITY.
From January 1878 to April 1881.

(152) THE BRUSH-TAILED PORCUPINE.

(ATHERURA FASCICULATA—(Shaw.) )

Smaller in size than any of the preceding genus; head more pointed,
tail long and ratlike, terminated by a tuft of bristly spines, which are
simple and flattened, and not twisted and irregularly dilated. The spines
of the body are softer than those of the other genus.

Hab.——Siam. ‘

A brush-tailed porcupine’” has recently been obtained from Darjeeling
hills. As it was purchased by its donor from a Bhutea, its true habitat
cannot be vouched for. None had hitherto been found north of
Tipperah.

(153) THE AFRICAN BRUSH-TAILED PORCUPINE.

(ATHERURA AFRICANA—Grag.)

Although specifically distinct, it resembles the preceding species in
appearance.
Hab.-—Western Africa.

 

* The caudal bristles of this s ecimen are twisted and irregularly flattened, and it is
therefore referable to A. Macroura, inn. v

 

 

 

 

    

   

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 123

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Over eight years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-The cage for porcupines should be built of iron and
brick only, the floor and walls up to about 2 feet, being thickly
plastered with cement and lime to resist their formidable teeth; a grotto
to afford concealment during the day should be provided; the brush-
tailed porcupines are less given to gnawing, and may therefore be
safely accommodated in a lighter cage. Strong lights should be avoided.
Keep only well-matched pairs together, otherwise they fight to death.

Food.- Grain, roots and grass.

Breeding—The short-spined porcupines have bred and reared their
young several times. The young are born with their eyes open, and their
spines are very soft, and lie close to the body. Generally there are only
two young at a birth, and there is only one brood in a year. The males
sometimes devour the young before they are many hours old, and it is
therefore better to separate them.

Transport.-—For such a destructive animal, the travelling cage should
be made of iron. If wood is used, it should be thoroughly lined with
z1nc.

Nothing particular is known about their ailments.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF PORCUPINES.

Though perfectly nocturnal in their wild state, those that have for
some time lived in captivity behave like any other diurnal animal, and
feed and drink during the day. They are as a rule more lively towards
the evening. Porcupines are much given to fighting among themselves,
and animals defaced by wounds inflicted upon one another, are not
uncommon. They rush upon each other sideways and backwards with
quills erect and rattling, and adopt the same tactics towards other
assailants also. The brush-tailed porcupines are milder in disposition, and
less given to gnawing and fighting. A very peculiar habit of circling
round and round a given space was constantly observed in some of those
exhibited in this garden.

(154) THE VISCACHA.

(LAGOSTOMUS TRICHODACTYLUS~BrookesJ

Description—It has the general appearance of a hare, but of a much
heavier build, with proportionally heavier head; tail long and tufted;
fur soft and downy, and of a mottled grey colour above and yellowish
white beneath; a white band crosses the muzzle and runs backwards
to each eye; length about 18 inches.

Hab.—-—South America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Two years and ten months.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 125
A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

Breeding—The agoutis and guinea pigs are prolific animals and

have several broods during a year. The former have on several occaslons

(155) THE SPOTTED CAVY' been known to eat up their young. . . _ 1
(C(ELOGENYS PACA (Linn) ) Transport.——Agoutis are given to gnawrng, especially If the trave -

ling cage be built of soft wood.
Desc"¢Mzbn.——Abcut 2 feet long, of a compact form, limbs slender, . -

colour of the hair of the back and sides yellowish brown; beneath white;
side of the body are arrange '

_ . ' ' ve la animal, and awkward in its movements.

. f the 81390168 1s t . ek, formed by Thosg‘githsi22dhheISeawerleynotzlsrhy, but approached anybody and snifled

. e expans10n and development of the zygomatIc arches, and opening at everything . they slept much during .the day. The spotted cavy is

Into the mouth by a small aperture. . also a nocturhal animal, and is therefore found sleeping almost the

Hab.—-Central and South America. whole day. It is, however, more active than the viscacha. An opportunity

having once been given to a Paca or spotted Cavy to burrow, it made a

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY' hole about 6 feet deep. Agoutis are unsociable animals, and of rather

From J 11119 1882 to January 1885. solitary habits, though generally qulet and unobtruslve; they are quick

in their movements and capable of Inflictmg severe teeth wounds on

1 assailants. These animals have been repeatedly observed to stow away

(156) THE CENTRAL AMERICAN AGOUTI. . food, mostly ship biscuits, under the sand .or straw bedding. of their

cage stamping the ground above several times With their hind legs,

(DASYPROCTA ISTHMICA-A lston.) probably to make sure that the property is well and securely buried.

Huh-Central America. They are cleanly animals, and spend much time, espec1ally after each

meal, in cleaning their lips and faces With their fore paws._ The guinea

pigs are restless, active, inquis1t1ve and squeakIng amm als, always

(157) THE HAIRY-RUMPED AGOUTI. fighting among themselves. especially if there 196 odd males, or weak

.- and sickly animals. They are nevertheless seeiable creatures and like

(DASYPROCTA PRYMNOLOPHA~Wagu to live in company,

Hab.—-Guiana.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

 

 

 

 

The agoutis resemble the mouse deer (pages 159-60) in external

appearance, but are of a heavier build; general colour of the body

' APYBARA.
chocolate brown. The hair of the latter species is somewhat longer (159) THE C
on the hinder quarters, and of a dark colour.

(HYDROCHCERUS CAPYBARA-Eml.)
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Dcscmjptzbn.——Length nearly 4 feet; height at bthed shoulders
. . . . . about 20 inches; stout and massive ; head large; muzz e roa eyes and
One Of the former obtaIned In 1878 18 Std] alive. ' ears small; no tail; feet webbed; coat of coarse hair, of ’moderate

i length, and of reddish brown colour. .
(158) THE GUINEA PIG, ! Hab.-—-The eastern part of South America.

(CAVIA PORCELLUS-(Lz‘nnJ) LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Hubs-South America.

Living since April 1884.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

, TREATMENT IN HEALTH.
Housing.-—- he viscacha and the spotted cavy ma "

be enerall sz' .——A lar e 0 on and shad enclosure with a tank is b far
treated like the marmots, with this exception that the {potteg cavy i}; the best“ 3250mmodatgi‘on Pfor this aniriial. Here it can indulge 1311 its
fond of water, and provision should be made to supply it. For the favourite habits of swimming and wallowing as much as it likes, While
agoutis and guinea pigs no earth is necessary, but they must have the grassy lawn affords it pasturage. The wall or fencing of the
retiring boxes for concealment. enclosure should be at least 5 feet high, as it has been found capable of
Foods—Like other rodents, they feed on grain, vegetables, roots, clearing a wall more than 3 feet high. Economy of space, however,

and biscuits; fresh kalmi (Concolvulus reptens) should be given to the

‘ is always a consideration in finding accommodation for animals, and if
guinea pigs.

 

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the lower ranges of the Himalayas to the Tapti and

shaded externally with black; th

Assam, extending southwards to Dacca.

126 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

for this reason it is not possible to devote such an enclosure to it alone,
it may be located with other animals of similar habits. In this garden
a capybara lived happily for a long time with a Malayan tapir, but
before such animals are introduced to each other their temper should be
thoroughly known, and their dispositions towards each other ascertained.
The same animal has now been living contentedly in another house, to
which a large grassy lawn is attached, and here it forages with the
kangaroos and wallabies; but to have no water for swimming and

wallowing is a great deprivation to the beast, especially during the hot
weather.

Food.——Grrain, roots, bark, and grass.
Transport—An iron cage should be provided.

The specimen that has been living in the garden has always
maintained excellent health, so that nothing is known about its ailments.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or A CAPYBABAa

Although it swims and dives with great ease, and delights in water,
it is more terrestrial than aquatic in habits, spending more time on land
than in water. A capybara readily becomes reconciled to captivity, and
behaves as if'it were the most natural thing for it to live in confinement
in the plains of Bengal. While living with a Malayan tapir, the
animal here alluded to often indulged in frolicsome games with the

former, and amused itself by riding on its back while both were
in the water.

(160) THE INDIAN HARE.

(LEPUS RUFICAUDATUS~GeOflPrJ
Hindi—Ekargcslz. Bengali——Kl¢arm.

Hab.~—Northern India, from the Punjab to Bengal, extending from

Godaveri rivers.

(161) THE COMMON RABBIT.

(LEPUS CUNICULUS~Li7m.)
Had—Southern and Western Europe and North Africa. Only the

domestic variety has been exhibited.

(162) THE HISPID HARE.

(CAPROLAGUS HISPIDUS—Blyt/c.)

General colour iron grey, with a brownish ruddy tinge; limbs
. e ears very short and broad.
Hab.——The Terai at the base of the Himalayas from Nepal to

A specimen lived for about three months only.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(163) THE INDIAN ELEPHANT.
(ELEPHAS INDICUS—F. cutter.)

The elephant is too well-known ananimal all over India to reqénge
much description; but individual specimens .vary from {lg‘fiOdf 11;? 5; ,
and some experience is necessary to distinguish them. e to (1)W] g
notes may be found useful by those who have not access 0 arger
works :---

“ Elephants are divided into three classes* :——-

“ Koomeriah or thorough-bred.

“ Dwasala or half-bred.
“ Mirga or third-rate.

“ eriah are— _ '

“BidirldlrdZeopf :nldoblfn great girth; legs short (especially the hind ones) and
colossal ~ the front air convex on the front Slde, from the development of mushcle;
back straight and at, but sloping from shoulder to tall, as a standing elep an}:
must be high in front; head and chest mass1ve; neck thick and short;.trun .
broad at the base and heavy throughout; hump between the eyes prominenlt,‘
cheeks full; eyes full, bright and klndly; hind quarters square and. plump; t 3
skin rumpled, inclining to fold at the root of the tail, and soft; tail long an
well feathered. . d

“ s of trunk and ears be blotched With cream-coloure
markitifsfltll‘ie fii’iiciiilal)’: Salue is enhanced. The dwasala class comprises all those
below t is standard, not descending so low as the third class.

“ a mu a are -- . .

.. Egggiizletsz.oliankine§s and weediness; arched sharp ridged back, difficult t3
load and liable to galling; trunk thin, flabby and pendulous; neck long and
lean; falling off behind; hide thin; head small; eye pigglsh and restless; an
altogether unthrifty, which no feeding improves.

.b.-—The Terai re ions of the Himalayas, Assam, Cachar,
BurmHali and Siam, exten%ing southwards to the Malayan peninsula;
elephants are also found in Southern and Central India, and were not
uncommon some thirty years ago in the Sonthal Pergunnahs.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

I ro ortion to its costlmess. 1t is not an attractive anlma ,
especidlllyytopthe Indian public, and isOtherefore not always exhibited
in the garden; one or two young animals are, however, generally. on
view during the cold weather awaiting transmlssion to some Zoological
Society in Europe, or Australia.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

in .——No shed is necessary for an adult or adolescent animal ;
it mgob: gicketed in the midst of a grove, or under the .shade of a
large tree; a masonry platform about a foot high, and sloping on one
side should be provided with posts in front and behind to which the
animal should be secured. For young animals, such as are generally
acquired, a shed of some sort is necessary, especially dunng the cold
winter nights, and to shelter them from continuous heavy rams

 

* Notes by Captain II. Wilberforce Clarke, R.E., on elephants.

 

 

 

 

.128 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

during the wet weather. It may be built of corrugated iron, or planks
with old rail posts over a platform, and barricaded round, so that, if
necessary, the young animal can be kept loose inside the enclosure.
The attendant should remain near his charge at night, as otherwise
jackals and other nocturnal animals have been observed to cause young
elephants much fright and unrest; he should, therefore, be allowed a
small but at one end of the shed. Ordinarily an elephant should be
picketed by one of its hind feet, and to prevent injury to the skin being
caused by constant friction of the chain or rope, a piece of tough
leather or hide should be used as a leg protector. A healthy elephant
should be bathed at least once a day, and allowed to remain in the
water for about an hour; while in the water it should be well rubbed
with jhama (vetrified brick); during the hot weather it should be
bathed twice a day. Young elephants should have some clothing at
nights during the cold season. To secure an elephant, fetters consisting
of one band/ma (chain), one berz' (anklet), one noose, and some rope for
emergencies are enough for ordinary purposes.

Food.—-A full-grown elephant requires 6 to 7 maunds of green
fodder daily. Various kinds of grass, especially dcfl, green paddy
plants, &c., constitute its natural food. In Bengal elephants are chiefly
fed on leaves and branches of various kinds of fig trees ; it is, however,
recommended by the best authorities that they should, as much as
possible, be restricted to their natural diet consisting of various kinds
of grass. Elephants are very fond of sugarcane, which may always
be given with impunity. In captivity, 6 to 8 seers of uncooked
rice or dhan (paddy), with a little salt, and a few bundles of paddy
straw, should be daily allowed ; but it is most important to remember
that no amount of good feeding on rice, dhan, or any other nutritious
grain will compensate for a continued short allowance of fodder. In
most places in Bengal there is no difficulty in making an elephant bring
its own fodder; besides a certain amount of saving in the maintenance
of the animal, it will serve the still more useful purpose of enabling
the animal to take some exercise daily. Young elephants between four
and six years old should receive about 3 maunds of fodder, and
about 3 to 5 scars of uncooked rice, a chittack of salt, and a small
quantity of goor occasionally: the green stock of the paddy plant is
the very best fodder for such an animal; failing this, they can be fed
on sugarcane, dal grass, and leaves and twigs of the gulher (Ficus
glomorata) and jack-trees; on no account should they be fed on peepul,
especially when it is throwmg out new leaves. Elephants should be
watered twice daily—once in the morning at about 9 A.M., and again
at about 5 RM. The cost of keeping a full-grown elephant, including
the wages of a competent attendant, amounts to Rs. 30 to Rs. 35 per
month, and that of a younger animal Rs. 20 to Rs. 25,

Transports—A young elephant must not be made to swim large
rivers, unless accompanied by at least one adult animal, and in charge
of an experienced attendant. When conveyed by rail, it should be
accommodated in a cattle waggon, and the attendant should travel
with it, as otherwise the whistling, j olting, and the general commotion
will frighten the animal greatly. When transported by ship, a suitable
box may be provided, but in such a case the animal must be

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 129

accustomed to its use some time before, as it may refuse to enter
he box at the last moment; a little enclosure may be built 1n some
convenient place. on deck, or it may be simply .kept picketed; 1t soon
becomes tame enough to be a general favourite With all hands on board.
Such an animal should be habituated to dry food, such as hay, paddy
straw, and compressed fodder; a liberal allowance of flour, rice, salt,
and goor being also provided. Large elephants should be placed in
the hold of the ship on a flooring made of sand or shingles.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The following are the chief causes of disease’“ :--

“ Want of shelter from extreme heat and cold; excessive rain and storms
of wind and rain; want of sleep; violence in the use of the “ankus " (drlving
book), which induces a running of the eyes, turning into sore eyes ;_ heating
fodder, which also produces sore eyes; bark and leaves covered with bird’s
dung, which produce spasms ; the giving of gram when the are suffering from
worms; exposure to the sun, which causes “ sarza," in w ich a tremor comes
over the animal and he expires; neglect of elephant attendants as to food,
which should be clean, wholesome, and sufficient ; not being bathed daily during
the hot season ; overwork and bad driving.

“ Elephants require but little sleep. When one has had enough to eat, and
is not prevented by noise, want of room, or uneven ground, he will lie down
before midnight; sleep for a couple of hours ; get up and eat a little; and
then lie down on the other side, rising finally two or three hours before day-
light to finish his fodder. It takes a considerable time for him to satisfy the
first cravings of hunger; and if the fodder be not given in time to enable him
to do so by midnight, he will go on eating all night, and not lie down at all."

The above remarks refer to adult elephants, but many of them
also apply to younger animals.

In captivity elephants are frequently troubled with worms in
the intestines; in this state they eat mud, which causes purging and
the worms are expelled dead. The animal should not be bathed or
fed upon rice, grain or salt until after all the worms are evacuated.
If the purging continue, bamboo leaves should be given. Elephants
sometimes suffer from sore eyes. If there. is much inflammation, use
solution of nitrate of silver ((5 to 8 grains to an ounce) ; if there is only
running, bathe the eyes with tepid water, and apply a little butter.
For a white film in the eye, apply calomel dusting.

Very young and unacclimatized elephants are liable to attacks
of a kind of glandular swellings known as Zalzr-bdd.

Symptoms.—-“ Glandular swellings behind the ear, under the throat, in the
groin, or between either hind or forelegs ; eyes become dull ; trunk shrivelled,
urine very red. Treatment—Bleed filb. behind the ear; apply a strong blister
of common blistering ointment mixed with sulphuric acid (1 drachm to the ounce),
well rubbed into parts affected. If the swelling falls downward, the animal will
recover, but the swelling in its downward course must be followed by the blister
until it finally disappears. If behind the ear, it generally falls down the jaw, and
disappears at the lip. If between the legs, it generally disappears at the knee-
joint. If, instead of falling, the disease should spread, it will cause the death
of the elephant, on the third dayfi“

 

* Notes by Captain H. Wilberforce Clarke, 12.11.

 

 

 

 

130 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

A young elephant, about two years and six months old, died from
this disease in 1877.

“ Suiclm, or dry Zahr-bdol—Is brought on by neglect, insufficient and im-

' ss.
prope‘r £33163: ETlfdfiiiiiiiil pines away to a skeletonilbeisomes sg‘wcftlgthaéssurlr‘f:
' ' i ' to scratch itself on t e egs. re .—- .

a Shmy grey calour’ ”dines ' t 11 dried and rubbed well
' ' hed tWIce a day In clear wa er, we , . _
:vlilaliuiaillZJEIl‘lgbfioleum, whenlgrgcurabtle)t (tihgegmtifiilgs shnwevgliicthw‘illSkdiiadl:

' t , and shou e pro ec e r . ,
iii -aair1?ilr5frrb(iihulthresii:i:, which will rot the scurf skin, and produce a state of

intense rawness.”

' was lately
A ung ele hant neglected by Its former owner,
observedcto have siiffered from all the above symptoms.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF AN ELEPHANT.

' ' t which was sent
11 11 Is recorded of a young elephan
to thighlladeflbohi'vdegZOOlogical Garden In 1883 :——t It:1 vaylrlagg 2712;: 1:3
adventurous one, as a terrific storm was encoun er . k
' te held on by Its trun to an

the deck of the Shlp, but the Wise bra t d ” Ele hams
' 'd of the vessel until the storm aba e . . p .
gggebgle‘ehn fdlgehigfidll; observed to shed tears abundantly. If forced to
leave permanently their old home, associates, and surroundings.

(164) THE INDIAN RHINOGEROS.

(RHINOCEROS UNICORNIS~Lian

Hindi—~—Genda, Glenda. Bengali—Gander.

dle
' - ' th folds of the neck do not meet to form. a sad
tli:l biggesggcidstheenext species, but curve backwards to Join that on
Ellie shouldeli‘s ' the base of the skull is liiroad; dhet 13113? whécge: 33%;
, ' ' te an s u e as 1
thick and tough, 1s like an armour p a , . the
' 11 at the folds. In adult specimens
routikliaadiesdrdldifdedesdifflbuli in young individuals It 13 produced toha
upipnt which is particularly noticeable, . as lately observed, while t :
POimal is feeding, or in the act of seizing somethmg. The ridge. 0
fife skull flat, and ears placed closer together Ehan In tlhetntehri: Effie;
‘ ' d‘if ence in the relative s1ze o sexes,. u .- .
Sifigfiiarlsinnghe 1feiiliale. It is the largest known specles of the Asiatic
rhinoceros. ' ' ' tl confined to the
.—- t resent the Indian rhinoceros 1s mos y
Dooai-Isatbo thé eagt of the 'Teesta river, although specimens are now arid
then heard of or obtained from Nepal Term and Assam. Fermer y
the had a wider range of distribution, being found 1n the Term regions
betiTveen the Himalayas and Ganges, and, according to J erdon, from}
Rohilkund to Assam. Specimens are recorded from Purneah, Nepa
Terai, Maldah, Gowhati (Assam).

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 131

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An adult female, which lived in this garden from 1878 to May

1880, had, previous to its arrival here, been living for upwards of forty-
five years in a private menagerie.

(165) THE SONDAIC RHINOCEROS.

(RHINOCEROS SON DAICUS~Desm.)

The folds of the neck unite to form a distinct saddlelike plate on
the nape; the upper lip is produced into a flexible point, which is semi-
prehensile, as is best noticed when the animal is in the act of seizing
a leaf or a twig; ridge of the skull somewhat elevated between the ears,
which are placed further apart than in the preceding species. . Antero-
posteriorly, the head is longer than in R. unicornis. The hide is
characteristic, and cannot be mistaken for that of any other species;
this peculiarity is due to the shape, size, and distribution of the tuber-
cles. Except-on the back, they are distributed all over the body, and,
are set closely together, the interspaces between them forming a net-
work of narrow channels. There are no tubercles on the back, but
the skin is irregularly cracked.

Observationa—Some difference of opinion exists as to the relative
size of this and the preceding species. As far as they have been
observed here, the R. unicornis appears to be the larger animal of the
two; a female of the R. unicornis, about eight years old, has been
found to be larger than a female of R. sondaicus of more than seven-
teen years of age.

Hab.—Sunderbuns, Assam, Burmah, extending through the
Malayan peninsula to Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An adult female has been living in the garden since 1887; this

animal also lived for about ten years in the menagerie of the late King
of Oudh.

(166) THE HAIRY-EARED RHINOCEROS.
(RHINOCEROS LASIOTIS—Sclater.)

Horns two; the anterior one, which is the larger, is placed on the
nostril; the posterior is placed between the eyes, about 3 inches
apart from the former: it is small and conical in form. Ears thick].
fringed with long drooping hair, which is the most characteristic feature
of this species; the upper lip is produced to a blunt point; the skin
smooth and without tubercles, of a brownish grey colour; the groin
and creases formed by the folds are flesh-coloured; lower parts of
the sides of the body thinly covered with brownish hairs, which are
abundant and woolly in young individuals; height at the shoulder
4 feet 6 inches.

Ha6.——-Chittagong and Tipperah Hills, Assam, and Burmah. Only
a single specimen (the third specimen living in captivity) has as yet
been obtained from the latter country.

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132 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A female has been living in the garden since 1882.

(167) THE SUMATBAN BHINOOEROS.

(RHINOCEROS SUMATRENSIS— Cu'v.)

Ears filled inside with short bristly hairs; margin not fringed
with drooping hairs; the upper lip is almost rounded; the skin is
coarse and dark, and the hairs short, bristly, and less abundant.

Hab.-—-The Malay peninsula and the islands of Sumatra, Java,

and Borneo.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From 1882 to 1889.

Observations.——Zoologists are yet undecided as to whether these
animals (R. lasiotis and R. sumatrensis) belong to different species, or
are mere varieties of the same; and it would not, therefore, be out of
place to indicate the several points of distinctions which these animals
present in their external characters when examined side by side.

The hairy-cared rhinoceros is bulkier in form than the Sumatran
species, and has much heavier foraquarters; besides, an adult lasiotis
stands higher at the shoulder than an adult sumatrensis. A young
female lasiotis and a pair of adult sumatrensis were acquired in 1882,
and it was observed after about a year that the former stood higher at
the shoulder than the male sumatrensis.

The ears of the lasiotis are shorter and placed further apart than
in sumatrensis; the skull of the former is broader, that of the latter
narrow. _ '

The tail of the lasiotis is shorter and well tufted; that of the
sumatrensis longer and covered with scanty, bristly, and straggling
hairs.

The skin of the nape of the lasiotis is smooth, that of the
sumatrensis slightly corrugated. In the former the neck fold com-
mences from behind and below the level of the ear and passes down-
ward to meet its fellow of the opposite side, but does not form a
pendulous knot below; in the sumatrensis the neck fold terminates in
a pendulous knot at the front neck.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—For the health, growth, and comfort of a rhinoceros, it
must have water and mud to bathe and wallow in, ample shade to PI‘O‘
tect it from sun, and a large piece of dry ground as a promenade, An
enclosure 230 feet long by 116 feet bread, with a tank 160 feet in length
and 50 fe'et in breadth, well shaded by trees and clumps cf bamboos, has
been found to answer for a couple of pair of rhinoceroses. The fence may
be built of iron rail uprights, about 5 feet high, with 1 inch iron rods

 

 

IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 133

placed horizontally about 6 inches apart, or it may be surrounded by a
strong brick wall about 3 feet high, with 2 feet of strong. iron fencing
built above and into it. Under ordinary circumstances, a rhinoceros
does not require a shed or house in this climate; but it is much better
to anticipate emergencies and provide. one ': there may be exceptionally ,
bad seasons, or an animal may require isolation and seclusion from
sickness or other causes. Before placing two or more animals together,
their temper and idiosyncracies should be watched ; a pair of Sumatran
rhinoceroses have been known to fight constantly with each other, the
male generally being the aggressor. They had ultimately to be separated.
This incompatibility of temper may, however, be accounted for by the
weak state of the female’s health ever since her arrival. On the other
hand, a female lasiotis and a male sumatrensis agreed very Well.

Food.——In its wild state a rhinoceros feeds exclusively on leaves
and branches of trees, and, like elephants, requires a large quantity to
fill its stomach. Of all kinds, it appears to like the jack-fruit leaves
best, but they are costly, and sometimes not procurable at all ; the best
substitute for these are the gulher (Ficus glamorata) leaves; it also
feeds on other species of fig leaves, but it is better to restrict it to jack
and gulher as much as possible. In captivity the leaf diet is usually
supplemented by soaked gram and bran; they must have salt every day,
and a small quantity of goor every now and then. .

Breedz'ng.—-On the 30th January 1889 a young hybrid (between
R. lasiotis and R. sumatrensis) was born. Both the parents had been
living in the garden since June 1882, and it is the second recorded
instance of rhinoceroses breeding in captivit . On the evening of the
29th January the female (R. lasiotis) was noticed to be semewhat
restless; she refused her usual rations of gram, bran and salt, though
every now and then she browsed some leaves and branches. Early
next morning, she was in acute labour pain, very restless, and after
intense suffering of nearly an hour, she suddenly got up and the
young one was born.

The mother took no notice of the young one, which looked more
like a lump of animated clay than a young rhino. After about an
hour and a half, and not until after several inefiectual attempts, it got
up at last and began to look for nourishment, but evidently did not
know where to find it. It was weak and very unsteady in its move- A
ments, and could not walk three yards without tumbling. At 1 P.M.
the mother was fed on oatmeal gruel, and the young one on a quart of
cow’s milk. At 4 P.M. the mother had her usual food consisting of
soaked gram and leaves, but the calf receiving no nonrishment yet
from the mother was fed a second time on cow’s milk about 6 P.M. and
again about 10 P.M. at night. During the course, of the night the
young began sucking the mother, and henceforth there was no neces-
sity for artificial nourishment. The young animal was now very
lively and playful, and was already inclined to explore the enclosure,
but as the banks of the tank were, in some places, steep and rugged, a
temporary fencing was erected to keep the mother and young one within
bounds, and prevent the latter from tumbling down and injuring itself.
Measures were taken to prevent visitors approaching near the- enclosure,
as the female evidently disliked being lookedat by a crowd.

 

 

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134 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

of the oun animal at birth was covered with soft
woolllyjrhleialifgfihe skin vyil'as sift and of a pinkish brown colour, which
is gradually becoming darker as the animal is growmg, but still
retains a pinkish suffusion. The growth and deyelopment of a young
beast, bred and born in captivity, but suckled and reared by its mother,
compare favourably with that of another, born in a Wild state, but early
weaned from its mother, and brought up under artificial conditions.
The present young rhino is only two years and seven months old, but
it has already attained such a development as to equal the mother in
size and bulk. Its upper incisor teeth have not yet appeared, and it Is
still now and then observed to seek nourishment from Its mother. _
Transport—A. cage is indispensable for the conveyance of a rhino,
young or adult; it must be made narrow, so as to prevent the animal
turning round, but still broad enough to enable It to Sit down ; a strong
plank cage, iron bound, should be preferred to one omade of iron rods,
as smoothness of the surface inside is des1rable ; the roof, and the upper
part of the sides, about a foot deep, should be left open, With means of
closing in bad weather; the back end of the cage. should also have a
space of about 6 inches left open below for cleaning ;_ there must be
sufficient opening at the front end of the cage to admit of the animal
seeing everything and breathing open air; the feeding and drinking
vessels being introduced through another opening below. A rhinoceros,
intended for transport overland, should be habituated to hay and
dry fodder. An attendant should always accompany such a valuable

animal, especially if it is young.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

nus has been known to cause the death of an adult female
R. ufiiedzrnis. An autopsy being held, the uterus was found to. be
very much enlarged, and its thickened and hardened .wall pressing
against the nerves of the surrounding parts. If the diseaseus early
detected, the animal should be freely purged and kept quiet In .a
perfectly dark room; various remedies have been suggested, but it is
useless to mention any, as recovery can seldom be effected.
Inflammation of the lungs has been met With in a young R.
sondaicus, the animal dying within twenty-four hours from the time of
ment of the first s m oms. .
the dglfligrgulosz‘s of the luiirgspand liver was found in an old R.
sumatrensis; the animal must have. contracted the disease long before
its arrival, as in spite of careful feeding 1t gradually dechned.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or RHINOCEEOSES.

Some rhinoceroses have been found to be very tractable, especrally
those caught young and reared in captiv1ty ; but, like other Wild animals,
their temper can never be absolutely trusted. Of the four species of
Asiatic rhinoceroses, the R. lasiotis appears to be the tamest. l‘hey are
all more or less fond of water and mud, but both the two-horned
s ecies have been observed to evmce much greater liking for them
than either of the two one-horned animals; the latter have seldom been

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 135

found digging holes in the same way as these two-horned animals.
The R. sondaicus now living in the garden has never yet been
observed to wallow in the mud, and although it has ready access to a
large sheet of water, it does not resort to it as frequently, except during
very warm weather, as the habits of the genus lead us to expect. The
highest bliss of the two-horned Species, on the other hand, is to lie
undisturbed in a muddy hollow or in water, and for this purpose they
are constantly digging new holes or undermining the banks of the
tank, which at times have to be protected by piles and brickbats. They
loosen the earth with the anterior horn, scraping and throwing it back
with the fore feet, sometimes beating the lumps down to convert them
into a soft ooze which they so much enjoy. They remain so quiet and
still and thoroughly smeared with this liquid mud that it is sometimes
difficult to detect their presence. When hungry and food is not forth-
coming, the two-horned rhinoceroses call for it with a monotonous
wailing whine; compared'with the size, their voice is weak.

(168) THE MALAYAN TAPIR.

(TAPIRUS IN DICUS—Desm.)

DescriptionwExternally, atapir much resembles a pig,- but is twice
as large in size; anatomically, it is related to the rhinoceros on the one
hand and to the horse on the other; it has four toes on the fore and
three toes on the hind foot. Its most characteristic feature is the »
elongated snout, forming a short movable trunk; the colouring of its
body is also peculiar, being greyish white on the back and sides, and
black on other parts, the line of separation being distinct and well
marked. It has a short tail and pointed ears, and its body is covered
with short hairs.

Hab.-—Malayan peninsula, Sumatra. It also inhabits Tenas-
serim, Lower Siam, Tavoy, and Mergui provinces.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.
From 1882 to 1890.

(169). THE HAIRY TAPIR.
(TAPIRUS ROULINI—Fiscker.)

Smaller than the preceding; of a dark brown or blackish colour;
ears edged white ; snout less elongate.
Hab.-—High regions of the Andes.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An adolescent specimen has been living since December 1890.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—:In their wild state tapirs live in the depths of shady
forests in the neighbourhood of water, tqwhich they frequently resort
for swimming and bathing. In captiv1ty they should have a large

 

 

 

 

 

136 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

shady enclosure with a tank. Their propensities for climbing low walls
and fences have on several occasions been noticed ; so that the enclosure
should be built in such a way as to render climbing impossible, and for
this purpose a wall about 5 feet high, with a deep projecting cornice,
will answer; to enable the visitors to look into the enclosure, an embank—
ment about 2 feet high should be thrown up round the outer aspect
of the wall, and a footpath constructed along its top; the wall of the
enclosure used for tapirs in this garden is only about 3 feet 6 inches
high, surmounted by a light iron fencing built into the coping. It
is, however, not every tapir that will attempt escape. A house in
one corner of the enclosure is necessary, and it should be built of brick
and mortar, as the animal is addicted to biting softer materials; the
floor should be raised and dry, or a platform provided. Tapirs are
generally inoffensive animals, and several of them, of the same or
different species, may live together in peace. .

Food.——-Tapirs feed on vegetable substances, consisting of leaves,
shoots and roots; they can be fed on jack-fruit and other leaves, sweet
potatoes, yams, bran, and boiled rice; the latter may be given sparingly
during the hot weather only.

Brecdz'ng.——A tapir obtained in January 1877 gave birth to a
young one in the month of May following; another obtained in July
1883 calved in October of the same year. Boththese animals were
in possession of adealer for at least three months prior to their inclusion
in this collection, and had no opportunity of pairing; this must have
happened while they were yet in a wild state before capture. Young
tapirs are marked with brownish spots and stripes, like young of wild
pigs. The spots and stripes disappear in about six months.

Transport—In July 1883 three tapirs were shipped from Singa-
pore in battened cages with open tops; two of these animals
arrived wounded and lame; during the voyage they made frequent
attempts to escape by climbing over the sides and biting through the
‘ woodwork of the cage. All tapirs do not of course behave in the same
manner; but the above facts indicate the kind of precaution necessary
for their transport.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

An apparently healthy female died after having suffered for about
three days from obstruction of the bowels. A post-mortem examination
was held, and the animal was found to have been suffering from
tuberculosis of the lungs and liver.

Galloping consumption.—-—Another female rapidly wasted away
and dIed on the 30th October 1890. On an autopsy being held, both
the lungs were found full of cavities, so that there was not a square
mob of healthy t1ssue anywhere. Up to about the end of July of that
yearthe animal was apparently healthy, but from about that time
It rapIdly began wasting away, developing at the same time other
unmIstakable signs of consumption.

Several .cases of prolapsus of the anus occurred among the
Malayan tapIrs exhibited here. One of them, a young male, born in
the garden, had to be. operated upon under chloroform, as, gangrene

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. ‘ 137

having set in, it was found necessary to remove a portion of the
rectum ; the animal, unfortunately, did not recover. The disease,
however, generally yields to treatment if early adopted. The first and
important thing is to gently and carefully reduce the prolapsus and
introduce a suppository consisting of equal parts of powdered catechu
and tannic acid, tied in a small piece of muslin, some anodyne being
at the same time applied; frequent application of ice is also recom-
mended: by way of diet the animal should be restricted to linseed meal
and barley. If the case proves obstinate, besides the astringent supposi-
tory, anodynes and ice, sustained digital pressure should be applied, and
for this purpose the animal should be confined within a small space.
Perfect quietness should at all times be enjoined.

OBSERVATIONS oN THE HABITS on TAPIRS.

Ordinarily tapirs sleep or remain indoors during the greater part
of the day, becoming livelier towards the evening, when the time
for feeding arrives; and if there is any delay in obtaining food at the
usual time, it calls for it by uttering, every now and then, a squeaking
note, peculiarly expressive of want. Their mental capacities do not
appear to be susceptible of any training, so that they never become
thoroughly tame or friendly, as might have been expected from their
inoffensive nature. They are never aggressive, but if annoyed or
enraged they are capable of inflicting severe wounds by biting.

They much enjoy bathing and swimming, and have sometimes
been observed to remain under water for at least a minute. The locomo-
tion of the hairy tapir is accompanied by much angular flexion of the
joints, causing the limbs to be drawn up high at each footfall.

(170) THE WILD ASS.

(EQUUS ONAGER—Pull.)
Hindi—Gorlcknr.

Description—Height at shoulder 11 to 12 hands ; above isabelline
with a slight rufescent tinge; muzzle, breast, and the inner aspects
of the limbs white; a dark chocolate colour median stripe extends
from the mane to the tail; in some specimens there are dark cross
stripes on the shoulder, and limbs faintly but distinctly marked. They
vary somewhat in height; specimens now living in the garden. are
about three years and six months old and less than 11 hands high;
but animals of the same age have been found to be over 11 hands.

Huh—The Punjab, Sindh, the deserts of Cutch and Rajputana,
extending through Afghanistan and Beluchistan to Persia. The race
of the wild ass is gradually becoming extinct.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A little over five years.

(171) THE DOMESTIC ASS.

(EQUUS ASINUS—Lz‘nn.)
‘ Both the Indian and African varieties have been exhibited.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(1’72) BURCHELL’S ZEBRA.

(EQUUS BURCHELLI—(Gmg.))

Descriptions—Height at the shoulder 4 feet; robust and thick-set
in form; mane and tail full ; the ground colour of the body above pale
ellowish; the limb and under parts nearly white; the stripes are brown-
ish black ; there are fainter and narrow stripes in the interspaces between
the broad stripes; limbs without stripes; individuals are said to vary in
this respect, some being striped almost down to the hoof; the greater
parts of the ears are white; a ventral black stripe runs along the
median line, and to which the large side stripes unite by their lower
ends; there is also a dorsal stripe; the head and face are beautifully
marked by narrow black lines. The ground colour of the body has
been observed to vary in shade at different seasons of the year.
Hab.-South Africa, extending northwards to Kilimanjaro district.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

An adult female has been living in the garden since May 1889.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housings—Both the wild ass and the zebra should have well-
drained, dry situations for their habitation. Their principal requisites
are—a sheltered shed, a sleeping room, and an enclosure as a grazing
ground. The floor of the shed and the sleeping room should be made
of bricks laid on edge, and joints cemented. Any partition or wall
necessary for the shed should be made of planks or bricks ; iron or wire
fencing with interspaces should, as much as possible, be avoided.
These animals are much given to frisking and kicking against anything,
and serious consequences may happen if the above precautions are
neglected.

Food.-—-Crushed food, consisting of gram, oats, Indian-corn, and
bran; hay, paddy-straw, and salt. During the wet weather the
grazing ground should be frequently mown if the growth of fresh grass
is luxuriant, as otherwise they may get colic from overfeeding on
green grass.

Transport—Boxes for the conveyance of these animals should be
narrow, perfectly plain inside, and provided with doors at both ends.

TREATI/IENT 1N sICKNEss.

Both the wild ass and Burchell’s zebra suffered from 1"lzeumati'sm,
no doubt brought on by dampness of the floor of their habitation. The
zebra had frequent attacks until a- platform about 18 inches high was
provided. From causes alluded to under housing, the wild asses suffer
sometimes from wounds and sores; in themselves they may not be
serious, but as swarms of flies are about, the danger of their getting
fly-blown and breeding maggots should be guarded against. For surface
wounds nim oil is very good, but for deeper ones a dressing composed
of stockholm tar, softsoap, sulphur and carbolic acid should be used.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 139

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS on THE WILD Ass AND ZEBRA.

The wild ass, unlike its domestic congener, is an intractable
animal, very shy and diflicult to approach. Attempts have been made
to break them in, but without success. A fine adult male once ran
amuck and “ in a state of temporary furor ran against the iron railing
of its compound with great violence and thus fractured its skull.” The
zebra is an equally intractable and untameable animal, addicted to
kicking and biting; but from what has been observed of the specimen
(E. burchelli) it does not appear that they are altogether devoid of
sociable qualities. This animal was at first shy and vicious, but
it has gradually become so tractable as to allow itself, with a little
coaxing, to be groomed and rubbed, and if in good humour it comes
to the side of the fencing to be stroked and patted. Its call-note is
a ringing musical bellowing, somewhat like that of the swamp deer
(C. duvauceli), but uttered more quickly and less prolonged. The
most characteristic peculiarity is the periodicity of the call, which may
be heard at an interval of half an hOur or more for two or three days
once every month or a month and a half.

(173) THE DOMESTIC OX.
(BOS TAURUS~Linn.)

(174) THE ZEBU.

(BOS IN DICUS—Limz.)

Both the above species, which are now only found in a domesticat-
ed state, have been represented in this collection.

(175) THE GYAL, OR MITHAN.

(BOS FRONTALIS—-(Lambert.))

Description—Height at the shoulder 4 feet 6 inches to 5 feet;
heavy in build; general colour varies from black with a coffee brown
shade to dark brown; legs from knee downwards white; dewlap well
developed; tail short; horns short, very nearly straight (extent of the
curvature upwards varies in different specimens); colour of the horns
greyish black; in older animals they are very rough and somewhat
scaly at the base; forehead very slightly depressed, and of a greyish
brown colour; there is no ridge in the median line of the skull
between the horns. The aspect of the skull is markedly triangular.

Many intermediate forms of gyals, including hybrids between it
and the domestic cattle, have also been exhibited. The white in the
legs, so characteristic of a pure gyal, is either wanting or imperfect in
these ; the forehead in some is altogether white or blotched with white
spots; the horns are sometimes rounded and more curved than in a
pure gyal ; others have almost straight and flat horns, and the ridge on
the anterior part of the back is much less prominent; in the hybrids,

 

 

 

 

 

140 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

between the gyal and the domestic cow, this ridge is altogether want-
ing, and the back is remarkably straight, resembling some of the best
breeds of English cattle.

Had—The hill regions of Assam, Tipperah, and Manipur, extend-
ing through the Chittagong Hill Tracts and Arracan to Akyab; also
found in the Duffie. hills north of the Brahmaputra. Gyals of indisputably
pure breed have been obtained from Hill Tipperah and the Naga hills;
other specimens, of which the purity is doubtful, have been obtained
from the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Lushai hills, the country of the Abors
in the hill regions of Assam, Cachar, &c.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From 1876 to 1884.

(176) THE SONDAIC OX, OR BANTENG.
(BOS SONDAICUS—(Miill.) )
The banteng is readily distinguished from the gyal by its yellowish

brown colour with a chestnut tinge and the white rump ; the ridge on
the anterlor portion of the back is much less developed than in either

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 141

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—The banteng is such a tractable animal that it may, if
necessary, be treated like a domestic cow, both with regard to housing
and feeding ; but the gyal, though it also becomes equally tame after a
few days in captivity, will not thrive in the climate of Lower Bengal
unless much freedom and pasturage are allowed. A gyal calf obtained
in 1876 showed, during its adolescent stage, signs of wasting away
despite good feeding and treatment ; but on being allowed the freedom
of grazing for itself, for the greater part of the day, in an adjoining
pasturage, where there was a fine avenue of trees, the animal quickly
recovered and developed into a fine bull. Though heavy and powerful
animals, neither the gyal nor the banteng are mischievous, and can
easily be accommodated in ordinary deer paddocks ; but shade and
coolness are indispensable for them, especially during the hot weather ;
stalls should be provided to protect them from the vicissitudes of climate.
Only young and adolescent gaurs have been exhibited in this garden,
and the following observations recorded in respect to the rearing of a
young animal may be useful :--“ As all previous attempts at rearing
gaurs in confinement had signally failed, this calf was allowed to roam
through the gardens even to the detriment of the plants, and being
a shade-loving animal, frequenting the densest forests, the instincts of

the gyal or gaur; tail long ; dewlap moderate; horns smaller, and more the little creature led It to seek secluSIon and shade 1n the centre of the

 

 

rounded and curved than in the gyal. A fully adult male isa much

darker animal than when it is young or adolescent.

. litab..-Burmah, Malay peninsula, the islands of Java, Borneo, and
Bah ; It Is said to occur in Arracan also.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From October 1881 to March 1888.

(177) THE GAUR.

(BOS GAURUS—Tmil.)

Description—~An adult gaur is a much larger animal than a gyal
or banteng, standing nearly 6 feet high at the shoulder; it is more
slender in build, but robust and compact ; general colour dark chestnut
brown; legs white, as in the gyal and banteng; the ridge on the
anterior portion of the back is much elevated, and the back arched -
there Is a conspicuous ridge in the middle :of the skull between the
horns ; the forehead is depressed ; there is no dewlap.

Only juvenile and adolescent specimens have been exhibited.

' , . Hab.—-Southern and Central India, extending through the Central

Provinces and Ohota Nagpore to Orissa and Midnapore, the Nepal and
Bhutan Terai, Assam, Tipperah and Chittagong hills, extending
southwards through Arracan and Burmah to the Malay peninsula.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From 1881 to 1885.

 

most choice groups of shrubs. This freedom conferred upon it, how-
ever, no doubt kept it alive, and even now, when about two years old
and a large animal with formidable horns, it is still so tractable that
it is permitted to wander about the gardens for a few hours daily.”
In allowing this freedom the temper of the animals should be taken
into consideration, and an attendant should watch their movements,
which should be restricted within certain limits.

Food.———Newly-imported gyals eat nothing but grass and bamboo
leaves, but as they gradually become reconciled to their altered state
of life, they begin to relish other food also, such as gram, bran, hay,
&c. ; bamboo leaves are always acceptable to them, and no efforts should
be spared to supply these as frequently as possible; salt is very
necessary for them, and should be given daily either mixed with grain
or in small lumps for licking; a small quantity should be mixed with
the food to make it more palatable. A few onions should be given
with gram or bran. A large troughful of clean water should always
be kept in a shady place, and the scouring of the vessel daily and
scrupulously attended to, as otherwise the slime that adheres to. it
finds its way into the animal and causes disease. .

Breeding—Gyms have yielded fine hybrids between themselves
and the domestic cattle ; the points in which the progeny differed from
both the parents have been already indicated; these hybrids were
mostly cows, and they bred with the English and country bulls.
Bantengs have also bred in the garden.

Trmzsport.—-Gyals and bantengs intended for transport overland
should be gradually weaned from green food and fed on hay and
compressed fodder, supplemented by grain. As they are generally
harmless and tractable animals, no box is necessary, but a hurdle -
enclosure may be provided. The best time to ship them to Eur0pe is

 

 

 

 

142 . A HAND-BOOK or THEMANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

between April and June; and to Australia from November to February.
With regard to their transport inland, it is important to remember
that the climate of Lower Bengal is uncongenial to gyals (it is
unnecessary to say anything about the gaur, as they are so seldom
acquired) which, if possible, should be brought down to the plains
during the Winter and rains only.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Either during the transit or after a few days in the plains, gy’als
generally become subject to diarrkwa. Change of climate, hardship
and discomfort of the journey bring it on. Restrict such animals to
bamboo leaves alone, and they will soon recover. Some of them linger
and die. New arrivals, especially those that have been on board an inland
vessel for a length of time, during their passage from Assam or Cachar
to Calcutta, and confined more or less to dry food, when turned loose
111. a grassy paddock, begin to eat greedily, and soon gorge themselves
With green grass. The stomach becomes much distended, and its action
suspended as it were ; fermentation in the meantime sets in, and as the
gas accumulates, the distention becomes excessive and painful. In
really bad cases the animal becomes restless, breathes with difficulty,
and manifests pain by its groans; the eyes become much congested.
The most effectual treatment is to puncture the side, about 9 inches from
the last rib .anddumbar vertebra to allow the accumulated gas to escape.
The Operation is easy, and a sharp pointed, stout gunny needle is
enough to perform it with, if a trochar is not handy. Immediately
after the operation, half an ounce of aromatic spirit of ammonia and two
ounces of tincture of ginger, or 4 ounces of juice of raw ginger in
a pint of warm water should be administered. For at least two days
the ‘animal should be fed on linseed meal, chopped hay, bran, and other
food, and for sometime afterwards its allowance of green grass should
be sparing. . In milder cases, where the symptoms are not such as to
bode immediate danger, one pound of sulphate of magnesia, one ounce of
aromatic spirit of ammonia, and two ounces of juice of raw ginger in
about a pint of tepid water, have been administered with good result,

Innumerable parasites, about 3 of an inch long and of areddish brown
colour, were found in the stomach of a gyal, which died within a few
months .after its arrival in Calcutta. This animal never recovered from
the debilitated condition in which it came, and gradually dro sical
swellings about the lower jaw and feet appeared. p
- Rinderpest~flas now and then broken out, and done havoc

amongst the cattle, deer, and sheep. Though generally of a virulent
and Sontagious character, the symptoms and the period of its duration
vane .

The following appearances were observed on o enin th
one of the victims (a banteng calf) some three hourEaftergdeaihbf-Ey Of

Lungs, liver, kidneys, spleen and heart healthy; no ulceration in
the stomach1 or smaéll tintestiilies ; ulcerated patches present here and

ere in e ar e in es ines' ar nx and trash ' -
trachea full of fgrothy and sticky ymucous. ea extenSively congested ’

In order to save the parent bantengs with another calf about four
months old, which were already segregated, they were sent over to,

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y 1N LOWER BENGAL. 143

and lodged in, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Sibpur, on the other side
of the river. Here they lived happily and bred. The elder surviving
calf died after about a year and a half from the same disease. Two
years and seven months after their removal, the bantengs with the
remaining calf were brought back, but they all died during the course
of the next month and a half. It appears that the germ of the disease
had already entered into their system, and that it took such a long
time in developing was probably due to the change.

Several gyals also have succumbed to the same disease.

It has been observed that whenever there is a cattle plague in the
neighbourhood, the outbreak Spreads itself in more or less severe form
among the cattle, sheep, and deer in the garden.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Both the gyal and banteng are, as already mentioned, very
tractable animals, but they are all retiring, without being shy. Only
young gaurs have been exhibited here, and although one of them
attained a good size and proportion, it was never found to be fierce. This
was probably due to its having been brought up from infancy. The
perspiration of the gyal and gaur is phenomenal. No other animal has
been observed to perspire so profusely as do these animals. In the

gyal it is thick and hardens into minute pellets.

(178) THE AMERICAN BISON.

(BISON AMERICANUS—l(amez.))

A single female was obtained in December 1887, but it came in

such a sickly state that it did not survive long.
Hubs—North America.

(179) THE YAK.

(POEPHAGUS GRUNNIENs—(Lm.))

Huh—The mountains of Central Asia and the higher regions of
Chinese Thibet.

A pair of these animals were exhibited for a few days while
awaiting transmission to the Zoological Society’s Garden, London.
Yaks are extremely intolerant of heat, and it is therefore better not

to attempt bringing them down to the plains.

(180) THE CAPE BUFFALO.

(BUBALUS CAFFER—wwpam'.) )

It is smaller in size than the typical wild buffalo of India, which
is a gigantic animal; the horns are short but very thick, and

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"wywmmhku . w A

 

144 A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

approximate each other on the forehead, where they form a rounded
prominence;

Bab. ~~South Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

A specimen lived for about three years, and died from the effects
of an accident.

(181) THE INDIAN BUFFALO.

(BUBALUS BUFFELUS—(Blum.))
Domestic variety.

(182) THE ANOA.
(ANOA DEPRESSICORNIS—(H. emit/m

It closely resembles a young buffalo; colour rusty black; short

prismatic horns are directed upwards.
Babs—Celebes.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One of the specimens obtained in 1880 lived for about eighteen

. months only.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—The Cape buffalo will do well in an enclosure similar to
that recommended for the tapir; if kept in a paddock, the fencing needs
to be stronger than that ordinarily used for ruminants. The anoa is a
shade-loving animal, and should not be placed in an exposed situation ;
if lazy, it should be made to take exercise.

Food.-Grass and grain; the anoa is fond of the greenstalks of

paddy plants.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE CAPE BUFFALO AND ANOA.

The specimen of the Cape buffalo exhibited here did not appear to
care much for water like its Asiatic congener, the Indian buffalo. The
anoa is listless and lazy.

(183) THE ELAND.
(OREAS CANNA—(H. Smith.) )

Description—Height at the shoulder nearly 5 feet 6 inches; colour
uniform tawnyyellow, With slaty-grey shades. It is, however, subject
to great variations, some havmg distinct faint stripes, others without

 

nun“.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 145

them. It has straight black horns, and a dewlap. The males have
tufts of hair on the forehead and a mane on the neck. It is the largest
of all the existing antelopes. ‘

Hab.—-Southern and Eastern Africa.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived from December 1882 to August 1885. It died
of rinderpest.

(184) THE NILGAI.
(BOSELAPHUS TRAGOCAMELUS—Pall.)

Nilgai is a vernacular term, meaning blue cow. The animal is
well known in India.

Hab.-—It is found throughout the plains of India, from the Punjab
to Cape Comorin ; not found in Lower Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

. From 1877 to 1885. In the latter year most of the ruminants
died from rinderpest.

(185) THE BEISA ANTELOPE.

(ORYX BEISA-(Rupp.) )

Description—As large as a domestic ass, but extremely handsome
in build and shape ; general colour of the body brownish grey, with well-
defined black bands down and across the face, on the back, and along
the sides and the limbs ; the black bands on either side of the body
unite on the breast, and continue as a single band to the lower jaw,
here they divide to form transverse bands on the head; it has a short
black mane and a long tufted tail; horns are long, slender, straight,
or somewhat recumbent, and pointed.

Hab.——Abyssinia and the coasts of the Red Sea.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From 1879 to 1886.

(186) THE LEUCORYX.

(ORYX LEUCORYX— (Pall.))

It is smaller than the preceding species, of an uniform whitish
' grey colour, with curved horns.

Hab.——-—North Africa.

Being on deposit, was on view for a few months only.

 

  

 

146 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—The eland is a hardy animal, and may be housed like
a nilgai or blackbuck. Beisa antelopes have been found to be rather
delicate, and care should be taken not to expose them to damp
andt moisture; they also require better protection during the nights in
Win er.

. Food.-—-They thrive well on mixed food consisting of gram, bran,
Indian-corn, wheat, paddy, &c., supplemented by hay and green grass,
which should be given sparingly; they are not accustomed, in their
Wild state, to green grass, and it is important that their grazing ground
slflould be frequently mown during the rains to keep down the growth
0 grass.

. Breediag.-Beisa antelopes have twice bred in the garden. Young
nilgai, both male and female, are fawn colour; the males begin to
assume the bluish grey colour when about one year old.

Transport—The travelling cage for a Beisa antelope should have
its front elevation higher than the back end, and the inside padded.
In fact the travelling cage for all horned animals should be made on
the same principle.

TREATMENT IN SICKNEss.

The eland, as already mentioned, died of rz'nderpest. The good
effect of segregation and change of place upon animals apparently
unafiected, but in close proximity to others affected by contagious
diseases, has already been noticed in connection with the bantengs
(pages 142-43). The same beneficial result attended the removal of the
Beisa antelopes to a place some sixteen miles down the river. Here
they lived in perfect health from July to December 1885. About a
year afterwards one of these animals fell a victim to a second outbreak
of the same disease. A young beisa, which arrived on May 25th 1878
was.found dead the next morning. It was placed in a shed,insidd
a nice little enclosure; after a voyage of nearly a month, the fresh
crop of grass was very tempting to the beast, which gorged itself and
died from excessive distention of the stomach (see page 142). ,

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F ELAND AND BEIsA ANTELOPEs.

The following is recorded about the habits of elands in a wild
state :-—“ In its natural condition,” continues Sir Cornwallis Harris
“ the eland frequents the open prairies and the low rocky hills interspersed
With clumps of woodabut is never to be met with in a continuously
wooded country. RGJOIOlng especially in low. belts of shaded hillocks
and in the Isolated groves of acacia capensz's, which, like islands in the
oceans, are scattered over many of the stony and gravelly plains of the
interior, large herds of them are also to be seen grazing like droves of
oxen on the more verdant meadows through which some silver rivulet
wmds 1n rainbow brightness betwixt fringes of shining bulrushes.”-—
Sirflornwallz‘s Harm's, quoted by Sclater. The male beisa antelopes
exhibited here have invariably been found to be pugnacious animals
but when provoked the female is as formidable to encounter as the male

 

   
    
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
   
      

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 147

In captivity they have never been found to be shy or suspicious,
and if well treated become to a certain extent tame. The male nilgais
are also generally vicious animals; they have been observed to kneel
down when about to fight or attack a man; they often assume the
same attitude while feeding.

(187) THE ARABIAN~ GAZELLE.
(GAZELLA ARABICA~(Hempr. et Ekr.))

Horns not lyrate ; females possess horns.

Hab.-—-South Arabia.

0bservotions.—Gazelles are small, slender, elegant shaped, and
sandy coloured ruminants. The males of all the known species, and
the females of most, possess horns. White or whitish bands extend from
the base of each horn down to the upper end of each nostril; abdomen
white, bounded by dark stripes on the flanks ; the rump, and in some
cases the haunches, also white.

(188) THE INDIAN GAZELLE.
(GAZ ELLA BENNETTI—(Sykes.) )
Hindi— Chi/card.

Hab.-Throughout the western parts of India, extending west-
ward through Beluchistan to Persia.

(189) GRANT’S GAZELLE.
(GAZELLA GRAN TI—-Brooke.)

The white of the rump extends on to the haunches; horns larger
than in any other species. In the male exhibited here they measured
19 inches. They much resemble those of the oblkara (G. bennetti),

but are much larger.
Hab.———Eastern Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Gazelles do not thrive in Lower Bengal. A male Grant’s gazelle.
lived the longest from 1881 to 1886.

(190) THE INDIAN ANTELOPE.

(ANTILOPE CERVICAPRA—(Limz.))
Hindi—Harm 3 , Harm-n SB. Bengali—Kalsanr, Krishnaaar.

Descriptz‘on.——The upper parts of a fullyadult male are glossy black,
the area round the eyes and a small portion of the muzzle white or
brownish white, the shade and extent of the colour as variable; the under

K2

 

 

 

 

 

1 xix-vmv “W”?3m’°xsv‘%3mw ~

. «w = a, Pr‘fiirrrznf-nst :_ .., ..
. mmnwmwabe-Wv 1.. ”a s, . m . .

148 A HAND-1300K OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

‘ ' ‘ ' ' ' bite; oun males are of light fawn colour
.artifin% lgsllfiuifthgg, IQEEZZHy beZOmegdarker; the horns large, blink,
hkd €irall ,twisted and annulated to about an inch from thed IPCi
an lspl hav’e no horns as a rule; a horned doe.was once rece1ve aln

felli'abfats d for some time; these horns, quite unlike those of the Tara esé
ex 1 1 e ooth somewhat flattened and curved backward, and d1 not
were dm9 inches in length. Light coloured adult males are no
frigginmon. The tear glands below the inner angle of the eyes are
Promlltfggfi—Found throughout the plains of India from the foot of the

Himalayas to the extreme south of the peninsula, with the exception of

A Bengal. It is also
0 t the Eastern Ghats, and Lower
the $35130? haiiaelS been observed at Gowhatty and on the banklsl olflitlli:
Egghmaputra. Most abundant in the North-West Provmces, t e g

land of Central India, and the Deccan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

S ecimens lived from 1876 to 1884, and prior to their inclusion in
this collection a few years in a private menagerie.

(191) THE FOUR-HORNED ANTELOPE.

(TETRACEROS QUADRICORNIS—(Blainv.))
V Hindi~ Chouszfngha.

’ ' ' ' lle ' colour reddish:

I) or ' tzon.--—About the sxze of an Indian gaze , . .

brown fsfetzlbcks marked white like those of the mlgai; hair coarse, 3:13:

only furnished with horns: in adult animals the upper pair 18 uitei
3 to 4 inches long, the lower pair much smaller, sometlmes q

concealed by the hair; the aspect of the forehead is very convex.

' ' ' t of India,
. ' b.—-‘— Grenerall distributed throughout the greater par .
especilzllzly abundant in Central Provinces ; not found in Lower Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About four years.

(192) THE BUBALINE ANTELOPE.
(ALCELA‘PHUS BUBALIS—(Pall.))

' ' ‘- d elongat—
~' lion—About the Size of a nllgai , head narrow an

ed . glischld’dy falling away behind; colour uniform blay, the:1 £3393
which are annulated about two-thirds of their len gt , are

upward in a lyrate form, and then abruptly turned backward.
Hab.-—’-North Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived from July to December in 1881; death being

caused. by an accident.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 149

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housc'ng.——As gazelles and antelopes are denizens of dry regions,
they should be accommodated in well-drained paddocks free from damp
and moisture; to ensure this, if the soil is not sandy, a thick layer of
coarse sand, about a foot deep, may be laid, with a top dressing of earth,
to allow some grass to grow, which should be sparse at all times.
Antelopes are not particularly susceptible to the depressing influence of
the wet weather, but gazelles are; and care should therefore be taken
to secure them perfect protection from rain and wet. The floor of the
shed should be built of masonry, and a layer of coarse sand should be
sprinkled over it, and in order that the animals may be kept indoors when
necessary, it should be enclosed with planks on three sides, with battens
or iron fencing in front. Light sheds may be built of teak wood posts
with plank roof, covered over with sheet iron or zinc. New arrivals
should not be exposed for exhibition.

Food.-—-Gram, bran, Indian-corn, paddy, wheat, &c., hay, onions,
and salt. Gazelles are very fond of babul leaves (Acacia ambient) ;
green grass should be sparingly given to them during the wet weather.

Breeding -—Gazelles, black bucks, and four-horned antelopes have
bred in this garden and reared young ones successfully.

Transport—The travelling cage for these animals should be made,
like that of any other ruminants, with planks on three sides and battens
on one, but wide enough to allow them to turn round ; the bubaline
antelope may be treated like an eland in this respect.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Inflammation of the lungs is a common complaint among gazelles
during the rains and winter; they have also been known to suffer from,
and die of, dz‘rn'rlzma. A doe of an Indian antelope was once suspected
to be suffering from consumption, and on being treated with phosphate
of lime it completely got rid of its hoarse cough, and regained its
former plump and sleek condition. A hog deer once ripped open the
side of a four—horned antelope, causing a portion of the intestine to
protrude; although the case was considered hopeless, owing to the
difficulty of keeping the beast quiet, the protrusion was reduced and the
opening stitched with carbolised catgut ligature, and the wound dressed
antiseptically, and all possible precautions taken to keep the animal,
which was absolutely tame, quiet and in one posture. The antelope
recovered in about twenty days, and lived in perfect health, until some
two years afterwards it was killed one night by some pariah dogs.
The bubaline antelope dropped down suddenly dead one afternoon;
as the animal was in perfect health a careful autopsy was held, and its
vertebral column was found to be fractured; the cause of the accident
was never ascertained.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR. HABITS.

Gazelles are lively, active, playful creatures. but extremely shy and
wary, unless rendered tame and familiar in captivity ; the females have
invariably been found to be gentle and inoffensive, but some males are,

 

 

150 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

' us and char 9 with much skill and courage,.mOV1ng' a few
Etieigablgckward, andg coming forward with a light sprlpg. . Like the
Indian antelopes, they also, though not so often, bound high in the air,
and if closely observed at this instant. the feet W111 be found drawn
closer together. The Indian antelope 1s perhaps more wary than a
gazelle, and is very suspicious of strangers and strange surroundmgsd,
but if taken young and reared in capt1v1ty, it becomes very tame an
confiding; most of the adult bucks are pugnacious, especially during
the breeding season, and fight much between themselves; and at this
season they may be seen chasing the docs round and round the

enclosure.

(193) THE DOMESTIC GOAT.

(CAPRA HIRCUS~Linn.)

f 11 'n varieties have been exhibited :—
Th: Ioiagl‘ivrlnirg goat, famous for its long and fine wool; the Welsh,

Maltese, ' and Lushai goats.

(194) THE PERSIAN IBEX.

(CAPBA EGAGRUS—Gmel.)

~' ' n.—-Hei ht at the shoulder about 3 feet ; colour of the
bodypjbbggnéllowishggrey, white below; the yellowrsh shade fades
away in captivity; beard black ; the horns. of the male are large, churvmg
upward and backward and gradually diverging from each 0t erf, a
series of protuberances and transverse depression on the convex sur ace

' ' ' earance. . .

give szlfgeg‘oagd in Crete and several other of the Wilder islands of
the ZEgean sea, in Asia Minor, on the Taurus, Mount Ararat, angrth:
Little Caucasus, possibly extending to the southern slopes of lab; ead
Caucasus. It is found all over Persia, Transcaspia, Afghams€1 1} Th
Beluchistan, and extend to the borders of India, where 1t is foun I; bee
Pubb and Suliman ranges in Sind, and probably north to the K y r
Pass.”——Notes on Indian Horned Game by W L. Sclater.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Over three years.

, (195) THE DOMESTIC SHEEP.

(OVIS ARIES-43132172.)

f llowin varieties have been exhibited :——The four-horned
ram g2; Arabia;g fat-tailed breed from Asm Minor and Afghanistan;
the fat in this breed is deposited under the tall instead of under the
skin; the south down sheep with short and close-set wool and dark-brown

face and legs.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(196) THE PUNJAB WILD SHEEP.

(OVIS CYCLOCEROS~HuttonJ
Hindi— U ryal in the Punjab:

Description—A full-grown male stands about 3 feet at the shoulder;
general colour of the body varies from reddish brown to brownish grey;
sides of the mouth, chin, abdomen, and legs below the knee white;
blackish patches on the sides and limbs; beard black ; the eyepits large;
horns resemble those of a domestic ram, attaining a length along
their curvature of nearly 36 inches in fully adult males, and much
annulated ; the female is somewhat small, has no beard, horns small, and
colour lighter.

Hab.——Found in the Punjab salt range ; the Suliman range in the
neighbourhood of Peshawar; in Beluchistan and Afghanistan; also found
in Persia and Transcaspia. The uryal inhabits much lower elevations
and hotter regions than most of the known species of sheep, which, as
a rule, are only found at high altitudes, and in a cool atmosphere.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From January 1879 to August 1883.

(197’) THE BURRHAL WILD SHEEP.

(OVIS NAHOOR~Hodgs.)
Known as Burrlml throughout the Himalayas.

Description—Height of an adult male 30 to 36 inches; colour, a light
slaty blue, with shades of pale fawn here and there ; under parts
yellowish white; nose, front aspect of the limbs, a band along the sides,
the chest and the tip of the tail black, which varies in intensity. Horns
rounded, directed upwards and outward with a semicircular sweep;
surface rough, but not much wrinkled. The female is smaller, with
small slightly curved horns.

Hab.—-The lofty ranges of the Himalayas, from Ladak to Bhutan ;
it is never found at lower elevations than 10,000 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It does not thrive in the climate of Lower Bengal, and is therefore
seldom exhibited. A specimen lived for about eighteen months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-Enclosures and sheds similar to those recommended for
gazelles will answer for ibex and uryal, with this modification, that in the
present case the fencing needs to be higher, as both these animals have
been known to jump over fencing and wall 6‘ feet 6 inches high with case.
When any portion of an enclosure is formed of a wall, its surface should
be perfectly smooth, as the least projection in the shape of a moulding
or an inclined buttress will give these sure-footed animals a foothold,

 

 

 

 

152 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

and they will bound on to the top in an instant. But however good the
accommodation may be, they will never thrive in captivity in Bengal
unless much freedom is allowed them to roam about. Much attention
should be paid to the bodily cleanliness of the domestic sheep, as other-
wise dirt adhering to the coat will irritate their delicate skin and cause
sores to break out; and for this purpose they should be frequently
Washed with soap and water and the skin rubbed dry, and at least
twice sheared during the hot weather. As they mostly come from cooler
regions, they would prefer a thin coat and frequent baths.

Food.—-The domestic goats should have some leaves and herbs every
day, besides the ordinary food consisting of grains, &c., allowed them in
captivity. If allowed liberty the ibex and uryal will pick up much of
their own food; they are very fond of rose leaves, both dry and green ;
in fact they thrive better on various kinds of leaves and hay than on
grain: they should have ready access to lumps of rock salt at all times.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Diarrhea is the common complaint among these animals, gene-
rally brought about by the effect of climate and improper feeding; many
of them have, at one time or another, been affected by and fallen victim
to rinderpcst. ’

The habits of these animals have been already mentioned.

(198) THE GIRAFFE.

(GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS—Linn.)

This most striking animal is characterized by its long neck and
limbs, the sloping back, and its frontal appendages consisting of a pair
of short, erect bony processes placed over the junction of the frontal and
parietal bones, and covered externally with hairy skin; anterior to these
is another bony eminence in the middle line of the frontal bone also
covered with skin, and is spoken of as a third horn: these processes are
present in both sexes. Ears are large; lips thin, mobile and somewhat
produced; tongue long and semi-prehensile; tail long and well tufted;
the ound colorn of the body pale brownish chestnut, with large blotch-
es 0 a darker 'tint ; the under parts and the limbs below the knee
uniform pale ; height of a full-grown male about 16 feet ; that of
a female about 14.

Hab.——Africa south of the Atlas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From December 1877 to April 1887, the death being the result of
an unfortunate accident.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—The principle of accommodation should be the same as in
the case of a zebra, with such modifications of detail as the size and the
characteristic structure of the animal require ; it is very delicate and

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 153

susceptible to vicissitudes of weather, so that cold draughts and damp
should be scrupulously avoided.

Food. ——Indian-corn, gram, wheat, &c., crushed and mixed together,
or given separately as a change from one to the other: 2 to 3
seers of grain, a pinch of salt twice daily, supplemented by a few bundles
of hay, will satisfy a full-grown animal ; it is very fond of 6056001 (Acacia
arabica), and beir (Zizyphus j uj uba) leaves ; if quantities of these are avail-
able, the allowance of grain may be reduced. To enable the animal to
feed and drink with ease, both the feeding and drinking vessels should
be suspended high.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

A male giraffe was found dead one morning in December 1879 ; the
Opinion was divided whether the animal died of colic or im‘lammatz'on of
the lungs ; the suddenness of death, and the extremely distended condi-
tion of the stomach, full of half-digested food, supported the former
conclusion; the nature of the accommodation, consisting of a thatched
shed with thin mat wall and low mud floor, had probably brought on
a chill inducing inflammation of the lungs.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 09 A GIRAFFE.

The giraffe is timid and peaceable in disposition; it soon becomes
trustful and follows a keeper or anybody who offers it a morsel of food.
Its thin and mobile lips and long and semi-prehensile tongue are ever
ready to pick up anything in the way; the animals here exhibited
showed greater preference for ladies’ bonnets and delicately dressed and
curled white muslin sheets which loosely dangle from Indian gentlemen’s
shoulders. Though timid and inoffensive, it is nevertheless capable of
inflicting serious and even fatal injuries by kicking with its powerful
limbs; a female giraffe was once noticed to behave in a manner which
betokened mischief. To improve and adjust the drainage of the
giraffe’s enclosure, the paddock was entered: the animal was so tame,
trustful and familiar that nobody thought anything about its presence.
As soon, however, as it saw the working party, consisting of an overseer,
a cooly with instruments, and the keeper, enter, it came cantering u
and chased the former nearly round the enclosure, and repeated the
same manoeuvre an hour afterwards when the attempt was again made.
The giraffe has a rocking motion when walking, and it is given to
swinging its long neck every now and then, sometimes describing a
complete figure of 8. Another peculiarity of the animal is that, when
walking, the fore and hind leg of the same side move together. It is
easily frightened, and has been known to clear a fencing 5 feet 9 inches
high. While living in an enclosure which formed one of a series of deer
paddocks, some pariah dogs get in one night, frightened the deer, and
chased them about in all directions; the result was a general commo-
tion among the cervine family; this so much frightened the giraffe that
it jumped over the fencing and took flight; next morning it was found
in a remote corner of the garden, quietly sitting in the midst of a dense
shrubbery. A most lamentable catastrophe happened to a fine giraffe

 

 

 

154 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

which accidentally hung itself in the fork of a tree. It was nibbling
at the lower leaves, and in order to reach some on a higher twig
evidently attempted to raise itself on its hind limbs by resting the
forefeet on the trunk, but slipped and fell on its side, and was instantly
strangulated.

(199) THE INDIAN MUN TJ AC.

(CERVULUS MUN TJ AC-—-Zimm. )
Hindi—Kd/cur.

Heb—Found all over India, Burmah, Malay peninsula, and the

islands of Sumatra, Java, and Borneo. In India it is not found in
Lower Bengal. '

(200) REEVES’ MUNTJAO.

(CERVULUS REEVESI—Ogilby.)

It is smaller than a kakur.

Hab.-Southern China.

The characteristic features of the muntjacs are the bony pedicels
covered with hair on which the small antlers are situated, and the large
upper canines of the males. In C. muntjac a V-shaped fold of skin
gives a peculiar expression to the face.

(201) THE WAPITI DEER.

(CERVUS CANADENSIS—Schreb.)

The wapite is the largest of the deer kind; it has a li ht 1
patch surrounding the tail; there are two brow antlers, theglowgi)‘ $811323

ing a right angle with the beam. The young of the wapite are
spotted.

Herbs—North America.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Fr om January 1879 to July 1883.

(202) THE FORMOSAN DEER.
(CERVUS TAEVANUS~Swin.)

“ The full-grown male has antlers about twice as lon as 't
With a short brow antler given off at an acute angle frori thles bhefaaig’
and there are two other t1nes besides the brow antler, one being a
strgrtiilg1 tiréfi deyeloppg from the anterior surface half-way up the beam,
an e 0 er rom e posterior surface in its u e th' (1. ”~— 1'
Bah—The island of Formosa. pp r 1r Anderson.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About four years; the death being caused by an accident.

(203) THE BARASINGHA DEER.

(CERVUS DUVAUCELLI— Cue.)

It is called barasingha from the fact that each antler generally bears
six tines; the beam of the antler is somewhat flattened. _

Hub... The Terai region of the Himalayas, extending as far east as
Assam, and along the Brahmaputra to the Sunderbuns; also found 1n
Orissa and Central India. Specimens have been rece1ved from Malda,

Rungpore, Gowhati, and Orissa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Over twelve years.

(204) THE SAMBUR DEER.

(CERVUS ARISTOTELIS—Ouv.)

Known as sdmbar or sa‘mar generally throughout India; Jaraa in
the Himlayas.

Horns vary much in thickness, length, and direction and extent
of the curvature ; those from Central India have generally been found
to possess massive antlers With greater outward curvature than those
from Northern Bengal or the Terai : the colour of the skin also varies
from sandy brown to dark brown; in adolescent females a ferruginous
tint is visible.

Hab.-—-It is found throughout India, from a height of nearly
10,000 feet in the Himalayas to the extreme south of the peninsula,
extending westward as far as the banks of the Sutlej, and eastwards
through Assam and Burmah to the island of Hainan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From 1875 to 1885 : death being due to an outbreak of rinderpest.

(205) THE EQUINE DEER.

(CERVUS EQUIN US-—-Cuv.)

Is closely allied to the sambur, but slender in form and smaller in

size.
Hahn-Borneo, Sumatra, and the extremity of the Malayan penin-

sula.
LENGTH or LIFE 1N carrrvrrx.

From February 1880 to August 1885. In this case also the death
resulted from an attack of rinderpest.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(206) THE HOG DEER.

(CERVUS PORCINUS~Zimm.)

Hindi—Para, generally throughout India.

Hub-«Found throughout the whole length of Terai extending
across the Gangetic valley to Assam and Burm ah.

(207) THE RUSA DEER.
CERVUS HIPPELAPHUS-~ Ouv.)

Huh—Java.

(208) THE MOLUCCA DEER.

(CERVUS MOLUCCENsrs—Mmz.)

Hab.——Amboyna and the Celebes islands. In these deer the postc~
rior branch of the beam of the antler is larger than the anterior, and
they have short muzzles.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A molucca deer lived for about seven years, and a rusa deer has
been living since July 1888.

(209) THE AXIS DEER.

(CERVUS AXIS—Erxl.)

Hindi- Ohital, generally throughout India.

Hub.—-—-The Sub-Himalayan and the Terai regions; Central and
Southern India, extending to Ceylon; extremely common and numerous
in the Sunderbuns of Bengal; specimens are said to have been obtained
from north of the Brahmaputra in Assam; it does not extend beyond
the Punjab. According to Captain Forsyth, very common in the valley
of the higher Narbada.

Hybrids between the hog and spotted deer are often produced and
exhibited.

(210) THE REINDEER.
(RANGIFER TARANDUswLinn.)

The characteristic feature of this species is the presence of antlers

in both sexes. _ .
Hab.—-—-Northern parts of Europe, Asia, and America.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.~—Th9 following general remarks with regard to the forma-
tion of paddocks for deer and other rummants may be useful: —-

It is both economical and convenient to build the paddocks in a
series; the site selected should be away from a public road and the front
entrance to a garden; before the grounds are enclosed, the condition of

 

 

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IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 157

the drainage should be properly ascertained, and if defective, improveli.
The back of the paddocks should be formed of a brick wall at least
6 feet 6 inches high, or, in other words, a compound wall should be built
along this side, and utilized for this purpose.

It is cheaper in the long run to use iron for the fencing, which
should be of an uniform pattern, though its strength may vary according
to the strength of the animals to be placed inside. A 6 feet high
fencing is enough to prevent most of the ruminants from jumping out,
although in some instances swamp deer and nilgai have been known to
clear walls and fences of nearly that height; but uryals, ibex, and other
animals of that group require special arrangement, if it is essential to
keep them within bounds ; either the fencing should be higher, or they
should have a covered enclosure. Quick-growing trees should be planted
within the paddocks to afford the animals shade, which is welcome to all
and indispensable to some, such as the gyal, gaur, wapite, sambur, &c.;
tanks, proportionate to the size of the enclosures, should also be provided
for the latter animals, especially the wapite and sambur, which frequently
resort to water; a few trees on the banks overshadowing the water will
keep it cool during the fierce midday heat of the summer. Shallow exca-
vations, about 18 inches deep, may be made under the shade of trees and
filled with water, to allow the animals to roll themselves in mud and
ooze, which, while lowering the temperature of their body, helps to
protect them from flies and mosquitoes also. They are quick to take
advantage of such muddy depressions, which some of them themselves
make with their sharp pointed horns. A gravel path about 3 feet .
broad should be laid inside each enclosure, along its front and sides.

A shelter of some kind is necessary to protect the animals from the
vicissitudes of climate, although under ordinary circumstances spotted
and hog deer do without any, beyond that afforded by trees and shrubs ;
but even amongst these, circumstances constantly happen rendering it
necessary to confine one or other of them in houses. Each shed should
consist of a stall, enclosed with fencing of the same pattern as that
used for paddocks, and a retiring room with plank or brick wall; it
should be built, if possible, against the compound wall, or at least far
back in the paddock. Details of arrangements, however, must always
vary, and be modified according to requirements.

Food.——The following are the principal grains used for feeding the
ruminants z—gram, Indian-corn, paddy, and bran. A quarter to half a
seer each for the smaller, and half to one seer for the larger deer and
antelopes, of a mixture consisting of gram and bran, or gram and
paddy or Indian-corn, with salt and onions, will generally be found
enough, if ample opportunity for foraging for themselves exists.
During the winter and summer, when the lawns become parched up, or
when the number of animals in an enclosure is larger in proportion to
the extent of the turf, quantities of grass, hay, and other fodder should
be supplied, in addition to the small allowance of grain, salt and onion.
Of the various species of trees and shrubs in a garden, many yield
palatable and wholesome fodder to the ruminants, and of such not a
twig or branch that is pruned, or a leaf or pod, green or dry, that falls
during the autumn and spring, should be thrown away, but carefully
saved, collected, and offered to the animals. As far as consistent with

 

 

 

158 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS
. ticultural as ect of an ornamental garden, trees. and shrubs of
Egzhhggonomic valuIe) should be largely planted. Ruminants, and for
that matter other animals also, should not be fed on newly harvested
gram and Indian-corn, which are indigestlble and induce ahmentary
disorders; to be fit for consumption, the grain must be at least three
months old, and even then it is better to mlx them With older stuff. .
Breeding.-—Antelopes, gazelles, and deer have freely bred in this
garden. To protect the young from the nocturnal attacks of jackals
and pariah dogs, both the doe and the fawn require to be enclosed 1n
a place of safety, until such time as the latter is old and strong enough
to withstand its enemies. Mothers sometimes refuse to nourish the
young, rendering artificial feeding necessary. There are several ways
of accomplishing this; the hand may be dipped in a basin of milk and
the animal coaxed to lick the fingers; a regular feeding bottle may be
used for the purpose, or a primitive one made With a small piece of
tubular bamboo, with its open end cut obliquely, so as to facilitate
insertion into the mouth. The milk should always be mixed With a
small quantity of tepid water before feeding. Some animals require
seclusion to induce them to suckle their young, but there are again
positively bad and negligent mothers which take no notice of their off-
sprmThe young of wapite and beg deer are born spotted; the spots on
the former soon disappear, bluttin the lpttetr they remain more or less
' ' ' after the anima a tains ma 111‘1 y. . .
dlstmflializlsljglolrt.~1)eer with soft velvety horns should not, if possible,
be selected for transport, unless perfectly tame and quiet, and the cage

well padded; those with mature horns should have their antlers

to within an inch of the burr. For large and valuable
atanivriialgflike the wapite the box should be padded inside; exposure to
midday heat of the sun should, as much as possible, be av01ded 1n all
cases. The difficulty, however, is to securea deer for transport, especially
when a great many of them remain loose in .a large parklike paddock,
enjoying almost as much freedom as in their Wlld state, Without the
attendant risk. The safest method, though dilatory, 1s to decoy them
into the retiring room of the shed; but the animals are extremely
suspicious and wary, detecting danger With marvellous quickness, and
constantly the artifice fails. To coerce them 1s dangerous, 'causmg loss
of limb or life of one or the other of them. Strong netting made of
loosely twisted hempen rope may be successfully employed ‘1n catching
the hinds, which generally give most trouble. If time permits, a space
about 10 feet by 5 feet, or larger if. required, may be enclosed round
the usual feeding place of the animals; the work should progress
piecemeal, so as not to arouse the suspiclon of the animals: much of
the success will, of course, depend upon the way the trap-door works.
Wood is no doubt the best material to bu11d such a trap With, but if
iron fencing be used, bundles of paddy, straw, or hay may be strung
together to form a rough screen, and hung round as padding.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Deer are subject to all the ailments already mentioned as being
common to other ruminants.

i
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3

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The muntjacs are retiring, unsocial, and suspicious; they are
ungainly and awkward in movement, owing to their hind quarters being
higher than the head and neck, which they carry low ; they have a shrill
bark, which is, however, not often heard in captivity. Instances are
known of male muntjacs inflicting severe wounds by their sharp canines,
and in one case it was a deep and dangerous one indeed.

The wapiti loves shade and water, to which they frequently
resort both during the day and night in summer: they regularly shed
their coats at the approach of the warm weather, and about the middle
of February thick patches of woolly hair come off different parts of the
body. The coats of the formosan deer undergo changes of colour;
during the summer it resembles the spotted deer, but in winter it is
uniformly brown like a molucca deer. The Barasingha is, however,
more remarkable for its seasonal transformation, as it is accompanied by
a corresponding change in the temperament of the animal. It sheds
its horns about February and March, sometimes later, and in about
three weeks its coat is changed from an unifdrm sandy brown to fawn
colour of a delicate and agreeable shade, with a series of white spots
longitudinally arranged on either side of the median line of the back ;
it loses its fierce and dangerous character, and becomes as mild and
timid as a lamb. The colour and temperament, however, gradually
change as the horns harden and the rutting season approaches; by
about the end of June, if the rain has already commenced, or the
beginning of July, the animal becomes again fierce and dangerous; it
charges at the fencing if any one approaches it, stamps the ground
with fore feet, grinds its teeth in rage, digs the ground with its horns
with all the symptoms of immoderate sexual excitement. When in a
quieter mood, it enjoys a mud bath in the slushy hollow of its own
digging. Its call note, which has been described as “ being a combin-
ation of the bray of an ass and the squeaking, grinding sound of a native
oil press,” is only heard about this period. Like the wapiti, the sambur
is very fond of shade and water, some being more aquatic than others.
A young equine deer has frequently been observed to stand for hours
together in breast-deep water, feasting upon the duck weeds: though
not generally aquatic, spotted deer have sometimes been noticed to
resort to water for the same purpose. The female deer sometimes
fight among themselves, and use their fore limbs as effectively as the
males do their horns ; they rear themselves on their hind legs, and hug
and batter one another with the fore limbs. A pugnacious female
would, when sulking,‘ attack a stag also, rearing up and striking and
biting in this case its hind quarters. A female wapiti once attacked a
gentleman who was superintending its transfer from one division of a
paddock to another; the animal in a fit of temper suddenly reared and
struck him down with its fore limbs.

(211) THE INDIAN CHEVROTAIN.

(TRAGULUS MEMMINA~(Erxl.))

Hab.—,—Central and Southern India and Ceylon.

. . Specimens have
been obtained from Orissa and Chota N agpore.

 

 

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(212) THE MALAYAN CHEVROTAIN.

(TRAGULUS NAPU~F. Owe.)
Huh—Malayan peninsula.

(213) THE J AVAN CHEVROTIAN.

(TRAGULUS J AV AN ICUS—Pall.)
Hab.-—~Java.

(214) STANLEYAN CHEVROTAIN.

(TRAGULUS STAN LEYAN US—Gray.)

Hab.—-Malayan peninsula. . .
In general aspect the chevrotains resemble the agouties.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Chevrotains or mouse-deer are delicate animals, and do not thrive
in the climate of Bengal. The Indian species have, however, done
better than the Malayan ones. ,

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—Damp should be avoided, and care should be taken not
to let the animals out to graze until the grass is dry.

Food.—- Gram, bran, Indian-corn, grass and leaves.

Breeding-The Indian chevrotains haye often bred in this garden,
the female generally producing two at a birth.

TREATMENT 1N BICKNESS.

Paralysis of the hind quarters and diarrhoea are common among
these animals.
OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

'lihe chevrotains are timid and .shy; but though mild and gentle
as a rule, they are sometimes much glven to fighting among themselves,
especially the males.

(215) THE GUANAOO.

(AUCHEN IA HUANACUS—Molina.)

General aspect of the animal resembles a camel, but it has no
hump, and the toes are separate, with distinct pads and long curved
nails; colour uniform light brown, passing into white below.

Rah—Found over the highlands of the Andean region of Equador
and Peru, extending to the plains of Patagonia and the forest-clad
islands of Terra del Fuego. .

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. ‘ 161

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From July 1878 to August 1883; it had lived for about seven
years in another menagerie.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—A paddock such as that described for the ruminants
constitutes suitable accommodation for these animals; a damp situation
should be scrupulously avoided.

Food.-—-They appear to thrive well on crushed food consisting of
gram, Indian-corn and bran; also hay, grass, and leaves.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Two of the guanacos died from the effect of an obstinate kind of
skin disease which baflied treatment.

The disease was probably the effect of the bad sanitation Of the
place to which the animals had to be transferred.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Though wary in their wild state, they become very tame in captivity,
so that they have often been noticed to come prancing and cantering
near the fencing and look inquisitively at visitors; they are, however,
nasty animals to approach, owing to their disagreeable habit of spitting
with or without provocation. They have a ringing metallic cry, which
is only uttered when the animal is excited. For further information

about their habits see Darwin’s “Journal of a Voyage round the
World.” 3

(216) THE CAMEL.
(CAMELUS DROMEDARIUS—Linn.)

The Arabian camel is now unknown in a wild state.

(217) THE BACTRIAN CAMEL.

(CAMELUS BACTRIANUS—Limz.)

It is distinguished from the preceding Species by having two
humps; it is also more heavy and thick-set in form, and has longer
and thicker hair, especially on the head, neck, and armpits.

Huh—Found in a domestic or semi-domesticated state throughout
greater portion of Turkestan, extending as far as the shores of the
Black Sea on the west and the Chinese frontier on the east.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The climate of Bengal is most unsuitable to camels, which
generally have not done well. One of the Bactrian camels lived for
about four years, but it was an old animal, having already lived for
several years in the menagerie of the late King of Oudh.

L

 

 

162 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

e desert animals, and should have an

absolutely dry place to live in; the kind of accommodation recommended
for a giraffe, but less elaborate and costly, W111 do extremely well for
these animals. They should be led about for an hour or two every day
or trained to carry children : exercise keeps them in health. The floor of
their shed should be thickly sanded. .
Food.———-Oamels appear to thrive best on hay and leaves, which may
now and then be supplemented by crushed food. They are fond of various
species of nim (mella) and babul (mimnsa) leaves, which may be glven

dry or green.

Honsz’ng.——The camels ar

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

In Lower Bengal camels become generally subject to various kinds
of skin diseases and superficial ulcers ; to prevent or keep them in check,
perfect cleanliness of the body is indispensable. During the Wet season,
when it is not judicious to bathe them often, they should be thoroughly
rubbed and groomed every day. The occasional application of sulphur
dust, even if there be no abrasion or ulceration, is beneficial ; it prevents
insects lodging in the hair and irritating the skin, causing them to rub
violently against anything. One of the Bactrian camels suffered from
and died of abscess of the liver, another became subject to paralysis of
the hind limbs, and while partially recovering from it hernia and pro-
lapsus ant supervened. Both of them were at first reduced, but the
former became at last unyielding, and the health of the animal having
by this time become much impaired, to put an end to its misery it was

killed.
OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Camels are uninteresting animals, being slow, lazy, and stupid.

(218) THE HIPPOPOTAMUS.

(HIPPOPOTAMUS AMPHIBIUS—Jn’nn.)

An adult hippopotamus measures about 12 feet along the back.
The young animal exhibited in this garden was about three years old,
and did not exceed 3 feet and a few inches in length.

Hab.~—-Widely distributed in the rivers and lakes of Africa. The

animal exhibited here was said to have been captured at Zimbaringo,
near Dara-e-Salam.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From March 1886 to September 1887.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hoasing.———An enclosure, with a tank similar to that recommended
for the rhinoceros, is suitable for a hippopotamus also. The experience

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 163

zgqlpirxliohlogvever, 1s Imperfect, as the young animal exhibited here did
Food.-—A1rnost from the time of its ca ture the oun animal
Eerie spoken of was fed on boiled barley and pIi'eserired Svgiss mgilk twice
ary, the same diet being continued for a considerable time after its
arrlval. It took a long time to be completely weaned from this food
and feed upon grass and leaves only.

Transport—Of such an aquatic animal requires special arrange-
ment to suit Its requirements, but the owner of this young animal had
unfortunately neglected this precaution, and kept it in an ordinary box
cage, not only during the passage of the steamer from Zanzibar to
Calcutta, but for a considerable time previously.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The animal above mentioned died from distention of tfie stomach
caused by overfeeding. There was obstruction qf the intestines also. It
was ascertained after death that most of the teeth, molars and premolars
especially, were malformed and deficient in enamel.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

. It remained most part of the day under water came out at
time of feeding, but generally not until it was called iseveral times. iii:
feedmg done, It agaIn retired into water. At night it came out again
walked about nlbbhng grass and leaves, or slept inside its house always
taking to the water before it was quite dawn. It was observed to
remain under water for more than ten minutes at a time.

(219) THE WILD PIG.

(SUS CRISTA'TUS—Wagner.)
Hab.—-—India.

(220) THE ANDAMAN PIG.

(SUS ANDAMANENSIsmBlyt/z.)

{lied—Andaman Islands.

Tie experiment of keeping wild pi s in a d '
a retiring S'lll‘hd has succeeded better than kgeeping thdriri ielnpllpilugeflgiifl;
o . ' i
agaifien ey must, however, have a mud bath during the hot

(221) THE PIGMY HOG.
(SUS SALVANIA—Garson.)

This diminutive pig does not exceed 26 ' eh '
snout to vent; tail rudimentary. my es 1n length from
Hab.——~Nepal and Bhutan Torai.

 

 

 

164 A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From March 1886 to June 1889.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

ded for
. t 1 of house as has been recommen .
Rommel-7531.11: OS? $3155 habits will suit them also, Viz, ifilelpiiki
many Otherf n1 outer enclosure. The latter should be lined up pd? m-
chamber an ant f om the ground to prevent their . Injuring e
for about 3 {ac r t fencing at the slightest alarm.

'ns .
selvesir 32th€iiihageg§¥deif fizzhuiiggritunate with several of these animals,
00 .--

' . ' t 'm ro er feeding. Whenever any
chiefly, as It now appears, 0:31? dolwd) with instructions to feed It on

' ’t was . . . . . . h
Of them was acquired, 1 their Man for this diet might ave
soaked paddy and roots. Wilt? 1i’lailfleliiot suit thegm here. They have been

I . . t , o t .
‘peendlielo Ellisgreob‘gttgi‘lbf lfitchen refuse, cons1st1ng of bOIled meat, eggs,
oun

vegeti’iiifgpliilfiiifeegr flfould never be conveyed in cages: made with

battens, rods, or Wire.
OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

' ' lready indicated,
' are extremely timid and shy, as a , 1 t
'PlgsziIEStaliictT; in concealment during the day. 001111128 $21311 altelly
rim]? b t if there is the least movement anywhere, dyto refer dry
nlgk £113th again . they have invariably been observe p
see ,

ground to mud and slush.

(222) THE BABIRUSA.

(BABIRUSA ALFURUSw-Less.)

' ' babirusa is barrel-shaped and the

' Ilescrgtzeoiiztir-egrhdeggilg olfhgire. Its most characteristicfleature 1s
8km a nmth of the canines in the males; those of the upper jaw pielfcg
the I‘(liwthe 11 per lips, shoot upwards like horns, andare then are :1
bgbk‘ivgards OVGII)‘ the eyes; the lower tusks are also directed upwaI s

k ards.
and b1811(6):biz—Islands of Celebes and Barn.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From April 1880 to May 1884.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

' ' - ll masonry
‘ .——Ma be housed hke the pigmy hogs , a .sma
tank Ililollelinvgvith 111115171 and water will suffice. But for this and th; {peat
animal enclosures like those recommended for the rhinoceros an apIr
t f ore suitable. . '
are ng‘tilijiliE—Fihfi, roots, vegetables and gram ; It has never been

observed to show partiality for a meat diet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 165

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Both the animals exhibited here died somewhat suddenly, the
female undoubtedly from fat.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Though denizens of a tropical climate, they appeared to suffer
from heat during the fierce hot days of May and June, probably more
from radiated heat than from the effect of temperature; at such a
time, they much enjoyed a cold bath; though generally retiring, these
animals were less shy than even a wild Indian pig.

(223) THE WHITE-LIPPED PECCARY.
(DICOTYLES LABIATUS—O’uv.)

Descrzfitz’on.-—The body is densely covered with thick bristly hair;
a large gland is Situated on the back towards the tail, which is very
small; colour grizzled blackish; lips white.

Huh-South America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From December 1882 to May 1891.
It was killed by a Spotted deer, with which it long lived in amity
and peace.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, it may be treated like the
preceding species.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITs HABITS.

The character of this individual animal was formed of two opposite
and contradictory elements, amiability and pugnacity. Generally it
behaved as if it were a most sociable and agreeable creature, both in
relation to visitors and animals with which it kept company. It nimbly
trotted up to the side of the fencing, and enjoyed being gently stroked
with a stick, especially if it touched the gland, with evident satisfac-
tion; but when in a sulky and disagreeable mood it snapped and hissed
at everything with its bristly hair standing on end. It once inflicted
a severe injury to a Malayan tapir with which it had long been
friendly. Its next companion was a rhinoceros, but it soon took a
dislike to its company, efl’ected an escape by jumping over a three feet
high wall, and made itself at home with a pair of spotted deer; here
it lived unmolested, but often annoying its companions, for nearly two

years, until one morning it unusually provoked the male by biting its
nose, and was Immediately speared.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT 01“ ANIMALS

(224) THE TWO-TOED SLOTH.

(CHOLCEPUS DIDACTYLUS~(Lz‘nn.) )

Description—It has a short, round head, with very small external
ears ; fore limbs longer than the hind ; tail rudimentary; body clothed

with long, coarse hair. .
In this species the fore limbs are furnished WIth two toes; in the

hind limbs three middle toes are developed.
Hab.-Forests of Brazil.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAP’I‘IYITY.
From November 1885 to November 1889.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-It should have a lofty and spacious cage, with a number
of dry branches stuck inside, so that it can pass from one to the other
without descending to the ground. To economise space, the cage may
be divided into two stories, the lower one adapted to a terrestrial
animal; or other devices may be adopted. On the whole, its arboreal
habits and aversion to descend to the ground should, as much as

possible, be recognized. .
Food-Feeds on leaves and fruits; the feeding and drinking

vessels should not be placed on the ground.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The specimens shown here died from inflammation of the bladder.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

Always clings with hook-like claws to the branches or bars of
cages, with the back downward.

(225) THE GREAT ANT—EATER.

(MYRMECOPHAGA JUBATA-Linn.)

Descriptz’on.——Head elongate, produced into a long snout covered
with skin ; opening of the mouth very small ; it has an enormous bushy
tail ; the prevailing colour of the body grey, with a broad black band.

Huh—South and Central America.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About eighteen months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—It should be remembered that the animal walks on its
knuckles, so that a hard stone floor will hurt it, and as it is not addicted
to burrowing, a cage with a mud floor should be preferred, or a thick

 

 

 

 

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 167

layer of sandy earth spread over the brick flooring. It should always
have a thIck bedding of straw, especially during the winter.

. Foad.-—-F1nely minced raw meat and. egg with milk constitute a
capital diet for this animal.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

After having lived for about a year in this garden, the animal
became subject to diarrhoea, which, although for the time yielded to
aromatic powder of chalk administered with milk, was never altogether
purged; after death somewhat deep ulceration was found in each hind
oo .

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

. .It rested or lay asleep during the greater part of the day, envelop-
Ing 1ts body with its bushy tail while at repose, and generally became
active towards evening.

(226) THE SIX-BANDED ARMADILLO.
(DASYPUS SEXCINCTUS—Linn.)

Description—The chief characteristic of this species is the presence
of a hard bony covering which protects the upper surface of the body,
overhanging each side, and forming chambers into which the limbs are
withdrawn; the top of the head is also protected by a shield, and the tail
has a covering of bony plates ; the exposed surface of the limbs is covered
by bony scales; the inner surface of the limbs and the under surface
of the body have no covering and are clothed with hair.

Hab.-—South America. '

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIvITY.

A specimen has been living since 1879.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-This specimen has thrived remarkably in a cage 10 feet
by 5 feet with thickly sanded brick floor, and placed under a small
shed well sheltered by a clump of bamboos. The place is dry, shady
and retired. There is a box for the animal’s shelter during the day.

Food.-Finely minced meat raw or boiled; generally the former.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITs HABITS.

It sleeps the whole day, generally inside the box, but sometimes
outside. It has been repeatedly observed to sleep on its back, and so
soundly as not to move until touched.

(227) THE HIMALAYAN ANT-EATER.

(MAN IS AURITA—Hodqs.)

. Hab.——Inhabits the slopes of the Himalayas, ascending to five or
81X thousand feet, and extending to China and Burmah.

 

 

- ., .__..._...,.W_~u¢“

 

..,, 5W ,,.me,m$ 31mm» . A..x<:_.y.':~ , e . .. . T . . .

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(228) THE INDIAN ANT-EATER.

(MANIS PEN TADACTYLA~Lisz
Huh—The drier parts of India.

(229) THE MALAYAN ANT-EATER.

(MAN IS J AVAN ICA—Blytlz.)

Hab.———Burmah, Malacca, Java, and Borneo.

The garden has not yet succeeded in keeping these animals alive
for any length of time, owing chiefly to the difficulty of procuring
regularly and in sufficient quantity their natural diet, the termites.
On one or two occasions they have even been known to take no notice
of this food when placed within their reach. Various other things have
from time to time been tried, but without avail. They are now, if
received, generally let loose to forage for themselves. A manis has
been found to swim across a tank 110 feet wide, and burrow under the
foundation of a wall 6 feet deep.

(230) THE VIRGINIAN OPOSSUM.

(DIDELPHYS VIRGIN IANA—-Slaaw.)

It has a long prehensile tail, and long bristle-like hair, mingled
with fur.

Hem—Temperate North America, as well as central and tropical
South America.

A specimen lived for about a year only.

2 (231) GEOFFROY’S DASYURE.

(DASYURUS GEOFFROYI—Gould.)

A. small civetlike animal, with a yellowish brown coat, profusely
spotted with white.
Huh—Found almost all over Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

These animals have on the whole done well here, a pair having
lived over six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-May be treated like shrews and small cats.
Food.—-Finely minced meat and egg. They are particularly
fond of small mammals, such as rats and mice.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Very retiring in disposition and thoroughly nocturnal, hiding the
whole day under straw or inside a box.

  

 

 

 

 

   

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 169

(232) THE TASMANIAN DEVIL.

(SARCOPHILUS URSINUS—F. 02w.)

Form bearlike; has a large head; muzzle short and broad; ears
rounded ; the prevailing colour of the body black.
Hula—Tasmania.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One lived for about three months, and another for about a year.
The former never recovered from the effect of the long sea voyage; the
latter died from disease of the liver, which was very much enlarged——
almost six times its normal size. Although provided with good accom-
modation, it never took the least exercise, and although occasionally
tempted with live fowls and rabbits, it never attempted to kill any. It
touched not a morsel of food for about a fortnight before its death.

(233) THE COMMON WOMBAT.

(PHASCOLOMYS WOMBATaPer. et Less.)

Fur coarse; ears short and rounded; muffle naked. ,
Huh—Tasmania.

(234) THE HAIRY-NOSED WOMBAT.

(PHASCOLOMYS LATIFRONS~0wen.)

Fur smooth and silky ; ears large and pointed; muffle hairy.

Hab.—-South Australia.

In general appearance the Wombats look like small bears, with
very short legs, or like exaggerated marmots.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1889.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Avoid damp and wet; a brick floor to their shed is
necessary, as otherwise they will burrow out immediately, but it ma
be thickly covered with sandy earth. It is better for their health if
they can be let out every day to forage for themselves within a grassy
enclosure, as it compels them to take more exercise than they otherwise
would. The experiment, however, failed, owing to their persistent habit
of burrowing out under the fencing. They were once tried in an
enclosure with a brick wall, of which the deep foundation, it was
thought, would prevent their burrowing out, but as one of them some-
how managed to drown itself in the small tank inside it, the survivors
were removed.

Food.-—Grass and leaves; a small quantity of grain every morning,
and sometimes biscuits.

 

 

 

 

 

170 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Shy and retiring in disposition, they seldom come out of their
inner chamber during the day. As a rule they are gentle and modem
sive, but occasionally they have been found to fight among themselves,
and bite each other. Their habit of burrowing has already been men-

tioned.

(235) THE VULPINE PHALANGER.
(PHALANGISTA VULPINA-(Shaw.) )

About the size of a small fox; general colour of the body grey;
ears white; tail black.
Hab.-—-Australia.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have lived over three years.

' TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With respect to housing and feeding, it may be treated like a
flying squirrel (see page 117), except that it feeds on soft vegetables
and roots.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

It is nocturnal in habits, so that it is always hiding under the
straw. It is an active creature at night, when it may be seen jumping
with great nimbleness and agility.

(236) GAIMARD’S RAT KANGAROO.
(BETTONGIA GAIMARDI—Gray.) .

Smaller in size than a rabit; head short and broad; tail.prehensi1e,
with a tuft of hair at the end.
Hater—Australia and Tasmania.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

From June 1882 to January 1892.

With respect to_ housing and feeding, it may be treated like the
preceding specIes; eutlrely a terrestrial animal.

(237) THE YELLOW-FOOTED ROOK'KANGAROO.
(PETBOGALE XANTHOPUS—Gray.)

.The tail of this species is thinner than in the next one and is
pencllled. ’

Hab.—-—The whole of the mainland of Australia.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 171

(238) THE GREAT KANGAROO.
(MACROPUS GIGANTEUS—Linn.)
Hab.-—~Eastern Australia and Tasmania.

(239) THE RED KANGAROO.
(MACROPUS RUFUS—(Deena) )

Hab.——-Australia.
Kangaroos are very characteristic animals, distinguished from all
others by the peculiarities of their general conformation, especially of

the limbs.

(240) BENNETT’S WALLABY.
(MACROPUS BENNETTI~Waterh0useJ
Hab.—-Australia.

(241) THE BLACK WALLABY.
(MACROPUS UALABATUS-(Less.) )
Hab.—-Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The kangaroos and wallabies have not done as well as might have
been expected. Some of them have, however, lived since 1882.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—A sleeping chamber with a dry raised floor, opening
into a spacious foraging ground, forms capital accommodation for
kangaroos and wallabies. There is no objection to their keeping company
with each other in the large open-air enclosure, but their retiring
chambers should be distinct for each species. Here in Lower Bengal,
the ground being generally damp, it is on the whole better to provide
a low wooden platform, wherever possible, and induce the animal
to sleep upon it. -

Food.—Kangaroos and wallabies are strictly vegetable feeders ;
besides grass and leaves which they pick up for themselves, a small
quantity of Indian-corn, wheat, and other grain is generally allowed
them.

Breeding.—-The wallabies have on several occasions bred in this
garden.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Paralysis of the lower limbs is a common disease among the
kangaroos and wallabies in this garden, brought on, no doubt, by damp-
ness of the floor 'of their sleeping chamber and want of exercise. In

a: - 0‘.an 2‘ ‘mmfi‘flw—flv . ”a”... “A...”

{Mir

’. . If. s rm .
‘ :‘é ..3"MD!W'LWIV‘WWW

 

 

 

172 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

mild cases the animals recover at the approach of warm weather; in
others the paralysis increases, some other disease, such as inflammation of
the lungs or diarrhoea supervenes, and the animals die. Ulceratz'ou of
the mucous membrane of the gums and the tongue has been known to
cause the death of a wallaby.

An apparently healthy wallaby died after having been dull for
three or four days, during which time it scarcely ate or drank. On an
autopsy being performed a large cancerous tumour was found in the
pyloric end of the stomach. In the stomach of another wallaby was
found a large ball of wallaby’s hair, deeply imbedded in the substance
of the mucous membrane.

Serofula occasioned the death of two wallabies, one of them born

and bred in captivity. In both of them the glands of the neck were
suppurated.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F KANGAROOS AND WALLABIES.

Generally they are timid and harmless creatures, though capable
of inflicting serious wounds in self-defence. They sometimes fight
among themselves by hugging each other, trying to strangle the
adversary between the fore limbs; and at the same time biting and
fleecing it. The ball of hair that was found in the stomach of a wallaby
was probably the result of one or more fights like this. They are very
inquisitive, though timid, especially the wallaby. Some of them are often
observed to follow a visitor from one end of the enclosure to the other,
or to remain in one spot for minutes together watching every movement.

 

 

 

 

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER. BENGAL.

PART II.

..__+————
(1) THE INDIAN HOUSE CROW.

(CORVUS SPLENDENS—Viez’ll.)
Hindi—Kama. Bengali— Edit or Pdt- Edit.

10 of the Indian house-erow varies a great deal; the
lid—llflugoreiilzxions of the black portions of the plumage are some-
Eggs wanting and the ashy-grey colour of the neck is much lighter 1n
sbme specimeiis than in others. The colour of the legs and 10111 also
' ' ' ' f crows are not uncommon. . .
vanegiaabu-j—l—I-ITOhi TIE: house-crow is found all over India, ascending the
Himalayas to about 4,000 feet; it also occurs in Burmah and Siam.

LENGTH or LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

An albino specimen has been living in the garden since 1883.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

' .-——It ’ a hard animal and thrives Well in an ordinaiy
aviargmhszhlgth is iifdispensazble, especially during the hot weather. A

house-crow is not a desirable bird to keep in an aviary, as it cannot but

ce to others. ' .
be a 81(9‘);rdoe—flfnablanp)t)i:ity it feeds on boiled rice, crumbs of bread, minced

meat and all scraps and remnants of food, being omnivorous in me
appetite. ' ' h b d in actual ca tivit
~ -— ouse-crows ave never re . . p y
° thgieiiziieafiefigbhatn tllliey breed freely in a semi-domesticated state
Edithin the garden. They begin to build in February and March, and
generally select a high branch of a tree ; dry grass, straw, Jute Er Elia:
ft materials being used in lining the nests, which are buil o s 10's,
€50 one instance a nest was discovered to be lined With feathers, which
the crows must have peeked off the back of an emu. The breeding
season lasts from March to June or July: crows have been noticed to
carry sticks for building, even so early as the middle of February.
Transport.-— No special arrangement is necessary for the conveyance
f a hardy and common bird like this : it is much better to place at 1633,81;
half a dozen of them in one cage or box, as singly, or in pairs, they may
pine ° guard also against fright and excitement.
,Nothing is known about their ailments.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A COMMON CROW.

h familiar and obtrusive when living in a semi—domesticated
state Aitlafllcigigves exactly like any other thoroughly Wild bird as soon as
restrhint is put upon its liberty, and even after havmg been In

 

  

  

 

; Wflmfi m 6:)»; .

  
  
  
 

 

  

174 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

captivity for some time it shows none of its wonted familiarity, cunning
and intelligence. The case is different (with birds taken young, which
have been known to become wonderfully tame. An excellent account
of a crow’s habits has been given by J erdon in his “ Birds of India,” volume

II.

(2) THE MAGPIE.

(PICA RUSTICA—(Scop.) )

Both the European and the Asiatic forms have been represented
in the garden. Not only is the amount of white variable in different
specimens, but their size appears to vary also.

Had—Europe, Northern Asia, and North America. In India
its range is confined to the Western Himalayas.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one has lived in the garden has
been about six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-As magpies generally inhabit temperate regions, their
accommodation should be cool and shady. A couple of them may do
well in an ordinary parrot cage (about three feet square), but in such
close confinement it has been noticed that their fine tails become injured:
a lofty and somewhat spacious compartment of a large aviary is
undoubtedly preferable, as in such a place they can live in company
with many other birds of the same family and genus. A hollow log
of wood or a box may be given them for retirement. During the hot
season a tolerably large basin of water should be supplied, besides the
drinking water, as they are fend of bathing in sultry weather.

Focal—These birds appear to thrive well on a mixed diet consisting
oft minced meat, fruit, especially plantains, boiled rice, boiled eggs and
sa oo.

Breeding.—-—Magpies have never bred or even laid in this garden
Eugdthey have several times been observed as making attempts td
u .

Transport.—-The flat-bottomed wicker baskets in which they are
imported from China and the Straits are by far the best for conveying
them from place to place; a proper arrangement should, of course, be
made for providing good drinking water, as without it these birds suffer
greatly. As they will eat almost everything consumed by man no
difficulty need be experienced in feeding them in transit. ,

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Magpies, like many other birds, suffer from bad moult, and seldom
recover until after the next moulting season. . Perfect cleanliness and
a good dIetary are the only remedies that can be suggested for them
while in this state.

 

.ng

N“.
-—-<- .nfi,

     

1N CAPTIVI’I‘Y 1N LOWER BENGAL. 175

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or MAGPIES.

The queer antics and familiar inquisitiveness of magpies afford great
amusement. Although they have frequently been heard to Imitate
the whistling and cackling sounds of birds living in adjacent cages,
none of those exhibited have ever been known to imitate the human
voice. Their thieving propensities are well known; bits of meat,
biscuits or any other articles of food are sometimes stowed .away In a
corner or buried under the sand. Anything bright and shining attracts
their attention. A tame magpie likes to be caressed and spoken to,
and is somewhat demonstrative; in short, it makes a very good pet.

(3) THE BLACK-RUMPED MAGPIE.

(PICA BOTTANE N SIS—Deless.)

This magpie is much larger than the preceding species. Its
distinguishing characteristic is that its rump is entirely black.

Hub.-—~Bhutan, Sikhim and Chinese Tibet. .

A single specimen was once obtained from Bhutan, but It only

lived a week or ten days.

(4) THE RED-BILLED BLUE MAGPIE.
(UROCISSA OCCIPITALIS——(Blgtk.))

Descrzflion.—~Head, neck and breast black, an irregular-shaped
white patch on the nape continued down to the back of the neck ; some
of the feathers of the neck white (though not invariably so); wings
brown or bluish brown; the quills white-tipped; the tail blue, the
two central feathers with broad white tips, the others with back and
white tips; beneath, from the breast, white, tinged with purple. Iris
brown; in very old specimens red; bill and legs red; in very young

birds the bill is orange red.
Hab.———-It is found in the Himalayas from the extreme north-

west to Nepal; said to be common in the Naga hills, about Bhamo,
and in Arracan ; generally distributed throughout Burmah. Specimens
are now and then brought to Calcutta by China steamers. The
Angami Nagas who came to Calcutta during the Exhibition of 1883-84
used the tail feathers of this bird for the purpose of decoration.

(5) THE YELLOW-BILLED BLUE MAGPIE.
(UROCISSA FLAVIROSTRIS—(Blyth.) )

It resembles the red-billed blue magpie in form and colour, but
is somewhat smaller. Its distinctive features, as its name implies, are its

yellow bill and its generally duller hue.
Hab.——It also inhabits the Himalayas, from Ladak and Hazara to

Bhutan, frequenting higher elevations than its near ally-the red-
billed blue magpie.

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176 A HAND-BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which these magpies have lived in the
garden has been nearly three years. In spite of the high elevations at which
they are accustomed to live, these birds appear to bear captivity well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

H ousz‘ng.-~ These birds never thrive in small cages such as are
used for keeping parrots, &c. The only successful method of keeping
such birds is to assign to them a lofty and spacious aviary, where they
may have the opportunity of flying about from perch to perch. If
practicable, it is better to lay down doob grass on a portion of the floor of
the aviary, as they have a habit of searching on the ground and enjoy
pecking at the grass and earth. Magpies, as most birds, like sunning
themselves, but care must be taken that they are not too long exposed
to the sun at its height. A bath should be provided, and during the
hot weather they derive benefit from the application of a garden syringe.

Food—Like the crow and common magpie, they thrive on food of
all kinds.

Breeding—N either of these two species last mentioned has ever
bred in this garden, but as the experiment of keeping them in pairs
by themselves inOsome quieter place has not been tried, it cannot be

said with certainty whether they are capable of breeding in the climate

of Lower Bengal.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

A. bird apparently healthy has sometimes been known to drop down
dead suddenl . This may be either caused by the rupture of some
blood vessel or by apoplexy. If life is not altogether extinct, an attempt
may be made, in cases of apOplexy, to bring the patient round by
administering a dose of caster-oil and appl ' g tepid water to its feet,
but treatment of any kind is rarely successf’iill.l

Diarrhaea.-—If caused by indigestion only, or change of temperature,
no attempt should be made to stop the discharge in the first instance;
the bird should be watched, and if there is much straining and discolour-
ation of the down it should be. taken out in ‘a small cage, and the
down gently washed with tepid water; this will serve to relieve the
straining also. If the flow continues for more than twenty-four hours,
about 15 drops of caster-oil and 2 of tincture of opium should be

ven.
g1 They no doubt suifer from other ailments in captivity, but as
nothing definite is known about them, it is better not to hazard con-
jectures.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Both the red and the yellow-billed blue magpie are less sociable
birds than the magpie (Pica rustica); they are never observed to greet
a visitor’s approach with the same familiarity and pleasure as the
latter evinces; they are, however, never timid. When living in com-
pany with many other species of smaller birds, they are sometimes found

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 177

to tyrannize over them. The red-billed species is less noisy than the
yellow-billed, which has a shrill ringing note, and utters 1t while on
the wing.

(6) THE GREEN MAGPIE.
(CISSA CHINENSIS—(Bodd.) )
Bengali— Sirgunj or Sirgun.

Dc.scm'ption.-—The general colour of the body green or bluish green;
head and neck yellowish green; the feathers of the head are somewhat
lengthened bacl‘iEwards, a black streak commencing at the lores runs
through the eyes and meets with the opposite one at the nape, the
central feathers of the tail tipped white, the outer tipped WIth black
and white; the Wing—coverts red. Bill coral-red, iris red, legs coral-
red; the shades of green vary in diiferent specimens, and in confinement
they generally become paler; in some a faint shade of brown 18 v1S1ble on
the abdomen.

Hab.—-It is found in the South-Eastern Himalayas, and extends
through the hill ranges of Assam, Sylhet, Arracan and the Burmese
Provinces, to Tenasserim; specimens have been obtained from Slkhlm,
Bhutan, Comilla, Tipperah, Chittagong and Arracan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one has lived in the garden has
been about six years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.~Pugnacious and predatory habits render’ it rather a
difficult bird to provide with accommodatmnn Fresh arrivals may be
kept in small cages until they become famihar With the food and the
locality, otherwise they must be treated 1n the same way .as the Uroclssa
(Nos. 4-5). Small and delicate birds should not be kept 1n the same cage
with this one. . . . . .

Food.-—Meat forms a considerable portion. of Its food In capt1v1ty.
The most successful method of feeding it is to mm a quantity of minced
meat with satoo, and make the compost. Into small pellets; It should
also be allowed grasshoppers and other Insects regularly ; . to sharpen
its appetite and to give tone to Its system sparrows and Similar small
birds should also be given occasionally. . .

Breedz'ng.—-These birds have never bred 1n th1s garden, nor have

they ever attempted to build.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Nothing definite is known about their ailments in captivity; they
have been known to die as suddenly as the Urocissa, but as no autopsy
has ever been held in such cases, the cause of death has not been

ascertained.
M

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A GREEN MAGPIE.

They are bold and inquisitive birds, and become so tame as to come
to the.SIde of the cage or aviary to peek Off food held to them. They
sometimes treat the smaller birds in the same aviary with unsparing
cruelty, and fight much among themselves.

(7) THE INDIAN TREE-PIE.
(DEN DROCITTA RUFA-(Scop.) )
Bengali-Handi—ckdnclm, Tdkd-chor.
The Indian tree-pie is extremely common, being found all over the
country from Kashmir to .Travancore and from Assam to Tenasserim,
Including. MerguI, Inhabitmg the plains at the level of the sea and

ascending the Himalayas up to about 7,000 feet ; it is also common in
Burmah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

. It does not appear to bear captivity well, as no specimen has ever
hyed for more than about eighteen months ; it is not, however a delicate
bird. N o serious attempt has ever been made to keep it alive for a
lengthened period owing to the facility of replacing any casualties.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—It never thrives in a cage, and may therefore be treat-
ed like the Urocissa Nos. 4-5 . As it is tyranm' ' ' ' '
small birds should be( placed with it. cal 1n d1spos1t10n, no
Food.—:—Minced meat, satoo, fruits and various kinds of insects.
Breedmg.—:-Many of these birds live wild within the garden, where
they breed during the summer, generally building their nests of twigs

and grass on mango and peepul trees. Nothing is known about their
ailments 1n capt1v1ty.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE INDIAN TREE-PIE.

It is shy, restless and somewhat uarrelsome, seldo '
the side of the aviary to receive foodq or to be strokedli1 Tilda-:12
metallic chuckling note so characteristic of this bird in a wild state is not
often heard 1n captivity. Its mental capacity does not appear to be
susceptible of education tO any appreciable degree. Though common it
28f Izmir ethbItmtgh, as by its giaérticolcgiroed plum age and restless habit
m across e av1a an ' m er '
to the effgct and livehnesdyof the ghligv. P Oh to perch, It adds much

(8) THE HIMALAYAN TREE-PIE.

(DENDROCITA HIMALAYENSIS~(BZyth.) )

. Description.T—Slightly smaller than the Indian tree-pie, its total length
Includmg the tall being about 16 inches. Forehead, lores, and feathers
above the eye black ; throat and sides of the head dark sooty brown;
crown of the head, nape and upper part of the neck ashy black, with bluish

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 179

reflexions ; lower back and scapulars dirty brown, rump and upper-tail
coverts ashy wings and the wing-coverts black ; with the exception of
the first two, all the primaries have a patch Of white at their base; two
central tail-feathers ashy with broad black tips, the outer tail-feathers
black; 10Wer parts from the throat brown, becoming paler towards the
abdomen. Bill black or horny black, irides red—brown.

Bah-Found throughout the Himalayas, from the valley of the
Sutlej to Sadiya, ranging through the hill tracts of Assam to Tenasserim.
It is not known to occur in the plains, but is found in the hills only, at
an elevation from 2,000 to 7,000 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN OABTIVITY.
One has been living in the garden during the last six years.

(9) THE BLACK-BROWED TREE-PIE.
(DENDROCITTA FRONTALIS —McOlell )

About the same size as the Himalayan tree-pie, the total length
including tail about 15 inches. The distinctive feature of this species as
compared with the preceding one is that there is more black In its
colouring; the forehead, the greater part of the top of the head and its
sides, chin, throat, forepart of the neck, tail, wing quills and the primary
coverts being all black; nape, back of the neck, upper part of the back,
breast and upper abdomen ashy grey; lower back, scapulars, upper taIl-
coverts, rump, lower abdomen, chestnut or chestnut brown : bill horny
black.

Hab.-—-Found in the Himalayas from Nepal to the extreme east of

Assam.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living in the garden for upwards of four
ears.
y With regard to TREATMENT IN HEALTH and SICKNESS, both the
Himalayan and the black—browed tree-pie may be treated hke the
Indian tree-pie. Details of treatment should, however,. always be
varied according to individual temperament and surrounding circum-
stances. On one Or two occasions this bird has been tried with
others in a large aviary, but this has not answered, as they . are
extremely quarrelsome and cruel, readily pouncing upon other birds.
It appears better, upon the whole, to give them a cage tO themselves
and keep them in a place comparatively less frequented. A cold bath Is
indispensable for them during the hot weather.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE HIMALAYAN AND THE BLACK-
BROWED TREE-PIE.

Both these species appear to be extremely shy, and untameable;
those that have lived in the garden for three or four years are still almost *
as wild as they were on their first arrival, and on their cages being
a preached they become very restless, as if frightened and surprised.

heir chuckling note is very discordant.
M 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

180 A. HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(10) THE BLACK-THROATED JAY.

(GARRULUS LANCEOLATUS~V£9J

Descriptions-The total length of this bird, including the tail,
is about 12 inches. The colouring of the head, face, and ears black,
the hind neck and the back vinous grey; in very healthy and adult

specimens the rump and upper tail-coverts brighter; chin, throat, and

the upper part of the breast black with white streaks, the black ending
in iron grey on the upper breast; the feathers of the upper breast
are lanceolate; the plumage lower down vinous grey; tail blue with
black bars and white tip; the primaries and secondaries black with
blue bars on the outer web ; both the primaries and secondaries are White-
tipped; the tertiaries grey with a broad black band and a white tip.
During the period of moult, the colouring of the head, face and neck
becomes almost pale ashy, much of the blue of the tail and wings
disappears; the white shaft streaks of the foreneck are somewhat variable
in different specimens; iris reddish or orange red; legs and feet brownish
grey or pinkish slaty; bill yellowish at the tip, the colour varies at the
ase.

Huh—The Himalayas as far east as Nepal. Common about

Almora and Dehra during the winter.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens exhibited have lived for about four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—It never does well as a cage bird, but thrives in a large
and spacious aviary in company with other birds.

Food.-—Satoo, minced meat, insects and fruits.

They have never bred in this garden.

Transport—Winter is the best time for moving and acclimatizing
them in the plains.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Half of the new arrivals appear to die from various causes, all
arising, no doubt, from injudicious treatment during the transit;
nothing however, is definitely known about their ailments

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A BLACK-THROATED JAY.

The black-throated jay is sociable and lives in perfect amity with
other birds, whether large or small. It is seen to great advantage when
wheeling round some object or flying about an aviary; it seldom alights
on the ground; it has a musical note and utters it while on the wing or
about to change its perch. It has never been known to become very
docile. Like many other birds, it does great mischief to ornamental
plants hung up in baskets; it readily make friends with other species,
so that it and a necklaced thrush, or any other bird, may not be unfre-
quently seen engaged in fondling one another.

 

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IN CAP’l‘IVl’l‘Y 1N LOWER BENGAL. 181

(11) THE BLUE-BEARDED JAY.

(CYANOCORAX CYANOPOGON~MamJ

Description.-—General colour pale brown; tail with broad white bands
at the tip; head, sides of the face, neck and throat black; a large blue
spot over the eyes; nape and hind neck white; under surface of the body
whitish.

IIab.——-Brazil.

Four specimens received in November 1888 never recovered from
the miserable condition in which they reached the garden, and died
Within a month or two of their arrival.

(12) THE RED—BILLED CHoUcH.

(GRACULUS EREMITA—(Linn.) )

Resembles a house-crow in form, but is more slender; its whole
plumage is glossy black, bill slender, curved, and coloured brilliantly red;
legs and feet red.

Huh—Found in the Himalayas from Kashmir to Bhutan; in
Kashmir it is common at low elevations during the winter, but in
summer frequents very high altitudes; in Sikhim it has been observed
at elevations from 9,000 to 16,000 feet. Its western limit reaches as far
as Europe and Abyssinia, extending eastwards as far as China.

(13) THE YELLOW—BILLED OR ALPINE CHOUGH.

(PYRRHOCORAX ALPINUS~ Weill.)

Its plumage is also black, but wanting the same gloss as in the
Red-billed Chough; bill yellow, feet red.

Huh—It also inhabits the Himalayas from Kashmir to Bhutan,
generally at very high elevations. '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Both the specimens died within a month and a half after their
arrival at the garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

These birds will never thrive in the plains, and it would therefore
be better if they were never brought down from the hills, and much less
to Bengal. The specimens which came under observation fell acci-
dentally into the possession of the garden, and all that could possibly be
done to mitigate their sufferings and prolong their life was tried, but

without avail.

 

 

 

 

    

 

182 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

 

(14) THE BLACK-THROATED LAUGHING THRUSH.

(DRYONASTES CHINENSIS—(Scop.) )

Description.——The general colour of the bird is brownish black
above; forehead, lores, parts round the eyes, chin, throat, and the middle
of the upper breast black; cheeks and ear coverts white; nape and top of
the head slaty blue; tail olive-brown, with a broad terminal black band;
primaries grey; breast and upper portion of the abdomen ashy grey;
remaining part of it brown er ashy brown; bill black; iris red; the
length of the bird is about 11 inches.

Hab.-——China and Burmah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a specimen has lived in the garden
has been over five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——A small cage suits as well as a large aviary, but for the
purpose of a Zoological garden, the latter is to be preferred. Unless
the bird is perfectly healthy and its wings and feathers are clean
and free, it should not be placed with other birds at once on its arrival,
as in that case it is likely to be tormented by the older inmates of the
houses; this precaution should be observed in all such cases.

Food.——It maintains excellent health when fed upon a mixed diet
consisting of satoo, minced meat, insects and worms.

Breeding.——These birds have on some occasions been observed in
the act of carrying hay, leaves, &c.; the object, no doubt, was domestic,
but they have never been known to lay eggs.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

New arrivals generally suffer from slight diarrhoea, brought on by
change and abundance of diet. No attempt should in such cases be
made to treat the symptoms, but the cause should be removed.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A BLACK-THROATED LAUGHING
THRUSH.

Sociable in disposition, it soon becomes very tame, familiar, and
demonstrative, responding to caresses and attentions by assuming
singular attitudes and sitting at the side of the cage or aviary picking
up food from the hand. It never sits still, but is always active, either
flying about from perch to perch, or engaged in play with some
companions of the same or other species. It whistles beautifully, and
has also a sort of subdued note. Often it may be seen away in a corner
of the aviary, assiduously searching for insects and larvae, both of which
form no inconsiderable portion of its diet. '

 

 

 

   

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 183

(15) THE HIMALAYAN WHITE-CRESTED LAUGHING
THRUSH.

(GARRULAX LEUCOLOPHUS-(Hardw.) )

Hindi-Rama Kahi.

Description.—Head with crest, cheeks; sides of the neck, chin,
throat and breast white; the occiput or hindermost feathers of the crest
grey or ashy; the space in front of the eye, ear coverts and parts in
front, behind and below the eye, black, appearing like a broad black
streak from the nostrils through the eye to the ear-coverts; the rest of
plumage olive-brown, the lower plumage tinged with a rufous shade.
Bill horny black, iris red-brown; its total length is about 11 inches.

Huh—Himalayas, ranging from Gurhwal to east of Assam, and
extending through the hill ranges to Arracan and Pegu; a specimen
has been obtained at Bassein. They are generally brought down from
Kumaon, Almora, Darjeeling and Bhutan for sale in Calcutta.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one of these birds has as yet
lived in the garden has been nearly seven years.‘

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——Although a spacious aviary is the best for this species,
it may, if necessary, be also treated as a cage-bird. Preference should,
however, be always given to the former mode of housing, as in that
case the bird has an opportunity of seeking its own food on the ground,
and a number can live together. It has been sometimes found
necessary to separate, as a punitive measure, an aggressive and quarrel-
some specimen from the company of the others, and keep it by itself for
a longer or shorter period according to circumstances. These birds are
fond of rolling on the sand, which should therefore be provided,
besides the usual bathing arrangement.

Food.——Satoo, fruits, insects and worms. It may be frequently
seen searching for food in the sand and turf on the floor of an aviary,
and if it lights on a centipede, a yulus or a cricket, attacks it with
great energy and force, and kills and devours it forthwith; sometimes
it treats satoo and other food like insects, that is, beats it repeatedly and
energetically before eating.

Breedz'ng.—oThese birds have never laid or even attempted to build
in this garden. _

T rampart-No special recommendation is necessary for the trans-
port of these birds, which may be effected in a common cage.

TREATMENT IN SICKNEss.

Diarrhwa—Occasionally occurs among these birds; the same treat-
ment as has been recommended under Urocz'ssa (Nos. 4-5) will generally
prove effective if arising from the same cause, such as indigestion or

     

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184 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

unsuitable food. In common with many other species these birds
appear to suffer from a kind of chronic cold. The real nature of the
disease has never been ascertained, but the patient suffers a good deal,
with an almost constant running from the nostrils; these sometimes
become stopped up, the bird’s appearance is dishevelled, and food is often
left untouched. In a majority of cases the tongue will be found to be
inflamed and its tip hardened. The usual plan of treatment adopted by
the Indian bird-fanciers in such cases is to remove the scale off the
hardened tip of the tongue and then to smear it with some ghz’ (clari-
fied butter) and pepper, or sugar ; for the next day or two the bird is
fed by hand upon nutritious articles; the result is, of course, not
always satisfactory.
The above symptoms may be connected with some organic disease.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A WHITE-CBESTED LAUGHING
THBUSH.

In captivity even, when a number of them live together in a large
aviary, they assemble from time to time and chatter and scream loudly
and discordantly for a minute or two and then disperse. They are
extremely active and restless, feed constantly on the ground, picking
up earth and grass in search of insects. Either from sport or in a
spirit of destructiveness, they sometimes destroy the nests built by
other birds living in the same aviary. The great peculiarity of the
chattering habits of these birds is that, when one commences, 'others
approach and join in the chorus.

(16) THE BLACK-GORGETTED LAUGHING THRUSH.

(GARRULAX PECTORALIS~(Gould.) )

Descriptiom—Colour of the plumage olive-brown with a rusty tinge
on the nape and bind neck; its distinguishing characteristic is the broad
black band on the upper breast; chin and throat white or whitish ;
cheeks, lores, and ear-coverts white or grey, streaked with black, or
sometimes pure black; enclosing this space are two narrow black lines
which, commencing at the base of the bill, encircle the eyes and, ears,
and then unite into a somewhat broad band, which passes down the
sides of the neck and then joins the pectoral band; the middle-tail
feathers olive-brown, the next two are of the same colour, but with black
tips, the terminal tail feathers with a double band of black and white;
a narrow white streak above the eyes; lower surface fulvous; abdomen
whitish. Bill black horn colour; iris orange-brown. The total length
of the bird is about 12 to 13 inches.

This Species varies somewhat in the colour of its plumage accord-
ing to the locality it inhabits.

Huh—Found in the Himalayas from Nepal to Assam, extending
to Burmah also.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.

Specimens have lived from three to four years.

 

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y 1N LOWER BENGAL. 185

(17) THE WHITE-THROATED LAUGHING THRUSH.

(GARRULAX ALBIGULARIS—(Gould) )

Descrz'ptz'ow—General colour of the plumage olive-brown, washed
with fulvous on the forehead, crown and ear-coverts ; the space in front
of the eyes and feathers over and beneath black; cheeks, chin and
throat white, from which fact it derives its specific name. Wings
brown, edges being rich olive-brown; tail olive-brown, the four outer
feathers having broad white tips, sides of the neck olive—brown continu-
ing down to the upper chest and meeting with that of the opposite
side to form a broad olive-brown pectoral band; the colour of the lower
plumage varies from rusty brown to bright ferrugineous; iris bluish
grey; bill leaden-black. The total length of the bird is about 12 inches.

nlcaptivity the colour of the plumage of some specimens becomes very
pa e.

Huh—Found in the Himalayas from near Simla to Bhutan and
Sikhim up to about 9,000 feet; by some authorities it is said to be found
in Assam also ; it extends into Western China.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen lived from May 1883 to the latter end of 1887.

(18) THE WHITE-SPOTTED LAUGHING THRUSH.

(IAN THOCIN CLA OCELLA'l‘A—( Vig.) )

Descrzptz‘on.——Forehead, crown, nape and neck in front blackish-
brown; space in front of the eye, front of the face, and supercilium
bright fulvous ; upper back and sides of neck fulvous, having subtermi-
nal broad black marks to all feathers which are tipped light fulvous;
scapulms, wing-coverts, lower back, rump and upper tail-coverts reddish-
brown, studded with white spots having black marks in the centre;
quills white-tipped ; middle tail-feathers chestnut with white tips, outer
tail feathers rufous with black and white tips ; each side of the throat
rufous with black bars; breast fulvous or buff with. broad black bars;
the lower breast and abdomen plain fulvous without any bar. Bill
yellowish; legs dull yellow; iris yellow brown. Total length about
13 inches. ,

Hab.-——Found in Nepal and Sikhim at elevations from 8,000 to
10,000 feet. Lo-Karreum-pho, which is the Lepcha name for this
bird, is said to be common in some places near Darjeeling.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens obtained in 1887 are still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

. With regard, to housing, feeding and transport, the birds numbered
16 to 18 may be treated like. the white-crested laughing thrush

 

186 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF AN1MAI.S

(No. 15). The white-Spotted laughing thrush does fairly well as a cage-
bird, if only one or a pair be kept in a small cage, but they do better in
a large aviary. It is of great importance that something like occupation
should be given to these, and for that matter to all other birds in
captivity, as otherwise they suffer as it were from ennui, which brings
on other diseases. Baskets with plants hung from the roof, shingles,
small pieces of stones and green turf laid on the floor, also mirrors and
bells, are some of the objects which may be used with advantage in an
aviary, as they not only serve the purpose of decoration, but occupy the
time of the inmates.

Focal—The same remarks, as have been made with regard to the
food of the white-crested laughing thrush, apply to these birds also.
Although none of these have ever been observed to kill large centipedes
and insects with the same ferocity as the former, yet they are as persis-
tent in their search for these articles of food as that bird. N o opporc
tunity of supplying them with earth-worms, insects and similar articles
of diet should be lost.

Transport-The best time fOr bringing them to the plains is
the winter, as otherwise the sudden change from the cool, bracing
climate of the hills to the sultry heat of Bengal greatly affects them.
If it is intended to send them across the sea, they should be sufficiently
tamed and accustomed to the change of food. ,

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

A white-necked laughing thrush once suffered from an overgrown
beak, and it was curious that, after the superfluous growth had been
filed Off, it grew again, and ultimately caused the death of the bird.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

They are identical in habits with the white-crested laughing
thrush; the gorgetted and the white-necked thrushes are more arboreal
than the others, whereas the white-spotted laughing-thrush is fond of
sitting hidden amidst the foliage, and is decidedly less noisy than the
others. The white-throated laughing thrush is sociable and somewhat
inguisitive; its habit of making friends with other birds is very inter-
es mg.

(19) THE STRIATED LAUGHING THRUSH.
(GRAMMATOPTILA STRIATA—(Vz‘g.))

Description—Light brown in colour, forehead tinged with umber-
brown, beneath paler-brown ; all the feathers of the body, both above
and below, are longitudinally striated with yellowish white streaks, those
on the abdomen being longer and wider than those on the back. Bill
black, sometimes horny black, legs dusky plumbeous, iris reddish brown.

Hab.—-—Is found in the Himalayas from the valley of the Sutlej to
Bhutan, at elevations from 6,000 to 9,000 feet.

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LowEB BENGAL. , 187

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one has lived in the garden has
been a little over three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

' ' ' like the
' t to housmg, feeding, &c., It may be treated .
otherxiighigsgpihrushes. It has never been tr1ed as a cage-bird, and

b bl not do well in a small cage.
wouldirp 1:13:61;in it is less carnivorous than the other thrushes.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or THE STRIATED LAUGHING
THRUSH.

' ciable and extremel restless. Its peculiar call .referred
to byItJ} 21$? :2 “ not unlike the clicking ofahen whlch' has Just lair;
an egg ” may also be frequently heard In captivity while It Is engage
in searching for food on the ground, or pIckmg up. earth her ,grasts.
When tame, it inquisitively follows a v1s1tor from one s1de of t e cage 0

the other.
(20) THE JUNGLE BABBLER.

(CBATEROPUS CAN ORUS—(Linn.) )

Bengali- Chkatarz‘a, Sdtblzaz’a, or seven brothers.

mmon in eve art of Bengal. The colouring of the
1m§gxgr£n::%:& to great varriafiion, according to season and locality]:;
The younger birds and those that have recently moulted afia muc
lighter in colour than those of which the feathers .have become ot . b t
Hab.-——It is found all over India, ascending the 111118 0 a on
5,000 feet ; always found within the garden In a Wild state.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN ’ CAPTIVITY.

. tru-
tre e1 common about Calcutta and almost as In .

' if $333035], geci’mens are now and then caught and placed. In

Silage aviary, so that it is impossible to give an Idea as to the period

one has lived in captivity.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE JUNGLE BABBLER.

as much arboreal as they are terrestrial; their habit of
makigg1 ea? 0:1;- haped hole on the ground for the purpose of a dust-bath
(which they take with their wings spread out) 18 well known; they
are extremely noisy birds; very sociable amongst themselves, althoug

occasionally given to much fighting.
’ (21) THE BLACK-BEADED SIBIA.
(LIOPTILA CAPISTRATA~(Vig.))

~' ' .——All about the head black; back and scapulars brown,
washfdsfivij’zhwgrey; all round the neck, the whole lower plumage,

 

188 A HAND-BOOK. OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

rump, and upper tail-coverts bright rufous; the median tail feathers
bright rufous with a black band and a bluish tip; in the external
tail feathers the rufous portion is diminished, the black taking its
place; greater wing—coverts white at the base forming a broad band;
bill black; iris reddish brown; the total length of the bird is about
E inches. In some specimens there is scarcely any grey tinge on the

ack.
. Hath—Found throughout the Himalayas from Simla to Bhutan;
common about Darjeeling, and not unfrequently observed so low down
as 4,000 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair has been living in the garden for about four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—It appears to do well in a large aviary in company with
other birds.

Focd.-—Fruits, insects and satoo.

Breede'ng.-——They have never bred in this garden, and nothing is
known about their diseases.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The black-headed sibia does not appear to be a sociable bird: on
the contrary it is rather exclusive in its habits; it has a twittering
call, which it frequently utters while seated amongst plants; it is not much
seen on the ground.

(22) SWINHOE’S WHITE-EYE.

(ZOSTEROPS SIMPLEX—Swinh.)

u Description—The total length of this little bird is about 4 inches,
and its general colour above olive-yellow; like most of the birds of this
genus it has a ring of silky-white feathers round the eye; cheeks and
throat golden-yellow, a black spot in front of the eyes, extending in the
form of a streak below the eyes; breast ashy pale, abdomen whitish;
under tail-coverts golden-yellow; bill black ; feet dark plumbeous.

Hula—Found throughout India from the Himalayas to Ceylon,
including the Laccadives; also in Burmah, South China and in the
Andaman Islands. All the Specimens exhibited in the garden have
cp)me either from Burmah or China, or some of the islands mentioned
a ove.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

These birds have not thriven well here, none having survived more
than five or six months. , .

.- ' V

i.
t l
l
A"

 

IN CAP'l‘lVlTY IN LOWER BENGAL. 189

(23) THE RED—BILLED LIOTHRIX.

(LIOTHRIX LUTEA—(Scop.) )

Description.——The total length of the bird is about six inches; it
has a slightly forked tail, and there is a slight difierence In the colouring
of the sexes; the prevailing colour of the bird 1s olive-green, W1th
coral-red bill. In captivity some of the specimens have been observed
to lose the bright yellow colour of their throat and chin, and the yellow
of the crown.

Hubs—Found in the Himalayas from Simla to Bhutan, from
5,000 to 8,000 feet; common about Darjeeling, on the Khas1a hllls,
the Kakhyan hills near Bhamo, and in Arracan and'Chma. Numbers
of these birds are often brought to Calcutta from Singapore, to which
port they are no doubt sent from China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

When once acclimatized they live for about four or five years, or
even more.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-It is far too restless and shy to be a cage-bird; on the
other hand, it becomes lost in a large and spacious aviary; it is therefore
best to keep the red-billed liothrix in smaller moveable aviaries, or large
cages with Java sparrows and other smaller seed-eating birds. They do
better when kept in companies varying from half to two dozen than if
allowed to live singly or in pairs. A large cage seven or eight feet high
and five feet broad and four feet deep will comfortably accommodate two
dozen of them with another dozen or two of other small birds. N o
cage or aviary is complete without some nesting accommodation, whether
the birds build or not. Small cigar boxes, with holes just large enough
to admit the bird, or an elongated box divided into compartments of
the size of cigar boxes, may be placed along the top of one side of the
cage. There should be perches and thin branches of trees for the birds
to sit upon and tufts of jute or hemp and small bells to play with;
a basin of water, besides that for drinking, should be provided as a bath;
the bottom of the cage should be strewn with coarse sand and, if
possible, fresh doob grass should occasionally be laid in a portion of it.
It should be well protected from draughts and cold during winter
ni hts.

g Foods—In captivity its food consists chiefly of various kinds of
seeds, such as millet, hemp, canary, &c. ; it likes to pick up seeds from
among the sand and grass; it also eats berries, fruits and insects, and is
fond of nibbling at salad and cabbage leaves. Fruits, berries and salad
grown in small pots may occasionally be placed inside the cage.

Breeding—Although they are frequently noticed to carry hay, jute,

&c., inside their retiring places, the liothrix have never been known to

lay ; this may be due to the presence of other birds in the cage.
Tmnsport.——They are not particularly delicate, so that they are
brought down from the hills in all seasons. .

 

 

190 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Nothing definite is known about their ailments in captivity; the
mortality is, however, comparatively great among the new arrivals.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE RED-BILLED LIOTHRIX.

Although a liothrix is a somewhat shy and restless bird, some of
them after being in captivity for a short time get sufficiently tame to come
to the side of the cage to receive food from the hand, but even then they
retain their nervousness. They have a chirping call, which at times
they utter incessantly. Like most other birds when frightened, especially
at night, they sit on the sides of the cage and thus fall an easy prey to
civets, mungooses, and other predatory animals.

(24) THE GOLD-FRONTED CHLOROPSIS.

(CHLOROPSIS AURIFRONS—(Temm.) )

Hindi~Harewa or Saba Harms.

Description.——About 7% to 8 inches in length; bill slender and curyed,
the tip being bent and notched; the general colour of the plumage bnght
grass-green, paler beneath; forehead and the front of the crown golden or
orange yellow, with a somewhat metallic lustre; lower throat and parts
about the ear-coverts black; chin, upper-throat purplish blue, a faint
yellow zone surrounds the fore neck; bill black; feet plumbeous. The
female is generally less brilliant in colour, the yellow of the forehead 1s
faint or altogether wanting, and the black of the neck 1s of smaller extent.

Huh—The gold-fronted chloropsis is distributed over a large area,
being found in the Sub-Himalayan regions, from Gurhwal to Assam; the
, Khasia Hills, Manipur, ; the hills near Bhamo; Karennee, the whole Of
lower Burmah, down to Amherst and the Thoungyeen Valley. It .18 also
found in Midnapore, Manbhum, Lohardugga, Sirgooj a, the Ralmahal
Hills, and portions of Eastern Bengal. This and the next species are
often brought to Calcutta for sale from Mldnapore and the ad] acent
places; hundreds of these birds are annually sold at gonepore fair, being
brought down there from Goruckpore and elsewhere In the Nepal TeraI.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About three years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH..

Housing.—These birds do as well in a small cage as In a large
aviary; there are, however, disadvantages In keeping them .111 a large and
crowded aviary; they get lost, and if habituated to special dieting, as
they frequently are, may neglect feeding. .

Food.--—Satoo sweetened with sugar and made Into a soft pulp ;. soft
fruits such as plantains, custard apple, insects, and occasionally mInced
meat or liver of a chicken boiled and minced. A bird accustomed to
this kind of feeding, if let loose in a large and crowded av1ary, neces-
sarily finds it impossible to obtain its proper food. A bread and m11k

diet has also been found to suit them well.

—‘-‘h-....' ‘ _w‘ '4. 5h _.., .. , ,

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 191

This kind of feeding with specially prepared food does not appear
to be absolutely necessary for all of them.

These birds have never built or laid in this garden.

Transport.—-Harewas are sometimes purchased at and brought
down from Sonepore fair; the small light bamboo cages in which they
are sold are good enough to accommodate one or a couple of birds each,
for three or four days, but they are far too fragile to bear the rough
handling to which they are necessarily subjected during the transit by
cart, cooly, boat and train. The best plan, when there are a number of
cages, is to pack them all in a light deal wood or even a bamboo frame;
it ensures comparative safety to the birds; the cages should on all
occasions during the transport be kept covered with a piece of canvas or
thick cloth. These birds are much given to fighting among themselves,
and it is therefore best not to place a number of them together, especially
when the distance to be traversed is great. When the journey is to last
some time, the cage should, of course, be stronger, made with planks on
three sides and & inch Wire-netting in front ; a cage one foot high,
9 inches broad, and 9 inches deep, will comfortably accommodate a pair;
the feeding and drinking cups should be placed at the back of the cage
inside; if placed in front, their contents will be liable to be soiled,
asflall such birds are much given to constantly alighting on the wire-
ne mg.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

New arrivals have been known to suffer from a kind of Izomy
filamentous growth at the tip of the tongue, brought about probably by
the change of food. The growth should be gentl scaled away, and some
non—irritating bland Oil applied to the tongue. t may be very easil
removed by gently pressing the tip of the tongue between the thumb
and the index finger, which should be smeared with powdered chalk or
ash to prevent slipping.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE GOLD-FRONTED CHLOROPSIS.

When caged it becomes very tame and sociable, whistles beautifully
and has a pleasing note.

(25) JERDON’S CHLOROPSIS.

(CHLOROPSIS JERI)ONI—~(Blyth.) )
Hindi—Harewa.

Description.—-The general colour of the plumage grass—green; chin
and throat black, surrounded by a broad band Of greenish-yellow, which
is also the colour of the forehead. In the females the chin and throat
bluish-green.

Huh—Found in the drier parts of the peninsula of India; they are

enerally brought to Calcutta from Midnapore, Monghyr, the Rajmahal
Tlills, and sometimes from Goruckpore.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None of these birds have lived more than 12 or 13 months; they
appear to be more delicate than the gold-fronted specres.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Should be treated in every respect like the preceding species.

(26) THE SILVER-EARED MESIA, OR SILVER-EARED
HILL TIT.

(MESIA ARGENTAURIS—Hodgs.)

~' 'on.--The len th of this bird is about 7 inches; .the nostrils
are (gigglellhby a membrfne; the colour of the forehead bright yellow ;
crown nape, lores, cheeks, black; a broad black streak runs backward
from the base of the lower mandible to below the ear—coverts, Whlcll .are
white . upper back and sides of the neck yellow; lower back and Sides
ashy ' ’upper tail-coverts crimson; chm .and throat deep .orange-yellow;
lowerz plumage olive-yellow; under tall-coverts also crimson. In the
females the crimson of both the upper and under tail-coverts 1s replaced
by orange-buff; in the young birds the crown Is yellomsh Instead of

blackElihu—Almost the whole range of the Himalayas, at elevations vary-

‘ 3,000 to 7 000 feet; also found in the Khasia and Naga Hills,
HinfilpouIl-l, the Kakhyan Hills and In Tenasserim.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

d h been ke t of the period during which any one of these
birdslhlgsrlaifrfd inatshe gardefi: probably it 1s about the same as that of the

- - ' thr‘x No.23). _ .
red bliiitalihfegaird to housing, feeding, &c., 1t may be treated hke the red-

billed liothrix.

(27) THE SPOTTED-WING, OR THE SPOTTED-WING
STARE.
(PSAROGLOSSA SPILOPTERAv-(Vz'gJ)

? 15' .-—About 7 inches long ' a greyish-brown bird.
Dflissgia—lfllglfound in the Himalayas: as far east as the Assam .Valley.
The specimens exhibited lived too short a time for observation.

(28) THE HIMALAYAN BLACK. BULBUL.

(HYPSIPETES PSAROIDES-(Vig.) )

Descm’ptz‘on.——The total length of the bird is about 10 inches; the
general colour of the plumage dark brown or grey ; bill and legs orange

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 193

red; the head sub-crested; the feathers being irregular and ruffled ; all
about the head greyish-black; ear coverts, chin, throat, breast and flanks,
grey or whitish-grey ; abdomen whitish; under tail coverts grey, having
a broad white margin.

_ Helix—Found in the Himalayas up to an elevation of about 9,000 feet,
Its western limit is as far as Murree, and to the cast it extends through
the Assam Valley to Sylhet, Cachar, Manipur, and Arracan.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Nearly three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing._-It is often kept as a pet in a small cage, but it does
equally well In a large aviary.

Food.——Satoo made into a paste with water and a modicum of ghi
or prepared With borhng ghi, fruits, insects, and maggots. Like Shamas,
they may be fed on minced meat also. .

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

The mortality among them is greater during the period of moulting,
and as the majority of the deaths occur from drowning, they may be
explained by the fact that the birds, being very helpless on account of the
loss of feathers, fall easily into the water of the tank inside an aviary
and are drowned. To prevent such accidents a piece of coarse cloth or
fisherman’s net should be stretched over the tank in the evening and
removed every morning.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE HIMALAYAN BLACK BULBUL.

It is extremely sociable in habit, and when caged is a nice pet;
is mostly arboreal, being seldom seen on the ground. The period of
moult lasts very long, and while moulting it loses much of the bright
orange-red colour of its legs and beak. It whistles beautifully.

(29) THE BENGAL RED-VENTED BULBUL.

(MOLPASTES BENGALENSIS—(Blyflz.) )
Hindi-—.Bulbul. Bengali—Balm].

Very common in most parts of Bengal; also found in Northern
Behar and Oudh; it ascends the Himalayas up to about 7,000 feet, and
is distributed along their lower ranges from Kumaon to the Assam
Valley.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

N o accurate record has been kept; it is a hardy bird, and under
favourable circumstances bears captivity well.

N

 

 

194 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing. —-May be kept in a small cage as well as in a large aviary.
A. favourite mode of keeping this bird with the Indian bird fanciers is to
carry it on the fingers or on an ornamental perch, one end of a piece
of string about a yard long being lightly attached to one of the legs of
the bird, the other to the finger or the perch.

Pouch—Fruits, satoo, &c.

Breeding.-’—They breed largely within the garden in a wild state;
the breeding season lasts from February to June; the nests are cup-
Shaped and made of fibres, dry leaves and grass; of the 25 nests found
in one year, more than half were built on croton bushes; the eggs are

three to four in number.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.
Nothing particular is known of their ailments in captivity in this
garden.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE BENGAL RED-VENTED
BULBUL.

This bulbul has been known to become very tame, and, when properly
trained, learns to perform some small tricks.

(30) THE WHITE-CHEEKED BULBUL.
(MOLPASTES LEUCOGENYS—(Gray.))

Descriptiom—About eight inches in length; upper plumage olive- '

brown, lower plumage earthy-brown; lower tail-coverts pale yellow;
ear-coverts white; lores black with a narrow white streak above them.

Bill black; legs plumbeous.
Huh—Found in the Himalayas up to about 7,000 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

These birds have generally proved short-lived in captivity in this
garden.

(31) THE WHITE-EARED BULBUL.

(MOLPASTES LEUCOTIS-(Gould.))

Descrzptz'onr—Excepting the ear-coverts and the hinder parts of the
cheek, which are white, the whole head is black; hind neck brown; upper
plumage dull-brown; the lower plumage whitish-brown; under tail-
coverts rich yellow. Total length about 7 inches.

Hab.———Western and North-Western India, and not uncommon
in Central India and Central Provinces.

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 195

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although there is no record of the actual period during which they

have lived ‘ t ‘ . . .
Lower Benlgl'lalile garden, these birds generally thrive well 1n captivity in

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

HWW'W-"Do well in an ' . - .
they can be treated as Gage-birds. aVIary , but 1t 1s doubtful whether

Food.-—-The same as for the Bengal red-vented bulbul (N o. 29).

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE WHITE-EARED BULBUL.

They are more sh th th . '
however, they have the gamealiabitz. Bengal bulbul ' 1n Other respects,

(32) THE BENGAL RED-WHISKERED BULBUL. .
(OTOCOMPSA EMERIA—(Linn.) )
Bengali—lezmti Bulbul ; Sz'pa/zi Bulbul.

Very well known in Bengal, so that nO descr' ' '

Had—Found all over Lower Bengal, as fdgtlvtgstsalsleéhsdgalfil
pore, Orissa and the Northern Circars, and distributed over thel ag-
ranges of the Himalayas, the hills of Assam, extending to Tenassiiffer
and Burmah. Specimens have been received from Lucknow and ad'ac mt
places. Large numbers are sometimes brought to Calcutta from till
Andamans and N Icobars, to which places they have been introduced 9

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

bulbdlhese bll‘dS live as happily in captivity as the Bengal red-vented

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

In respect to housing and feeding, these ma b t '
Bengal red-vented bulbul. They rarely breed withinethgfidideriike the

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A RED-WHISKERED BULBUL

It is extremely active and ve bold a d ‘
becomes as tame as. the Bengal red-gented bulblul. If IE1??? treated
chirruping note, which It generally utters while on the move P easant

(33) THE BLACK-CRESTED YELLOW BULBUL
(OTOCOMPSA FLAVIVENTRIS-—(Ticlc.))

Hindi—Zurd—bulbul or Pakarz’ya Zuni-bulbul.

Description.——General plumage olive l ’
-ye low ; head, h
black. The amount and extent of black vary somewliatnirlndliilldigzt

N2

 

 

 

  

196 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

specimens. Length about 7 inches; bill dark or ashy—brown; claws

browiff'abr—The lower ranges of the Himalayas, from the valley of the

i ' Orissa '

' t A am; the Central Provmces and southern portion of . ,
istuigills: foiliid in Tenasserim, Cochin ChIna and the Malay peninsula.
The single specimen that has as yet been exhibited 1n the garden came

from the Goruckpore jungles.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

' t the maximum
N' months. This does not, however, represen
length lgfe life in this garden, as the bird was sent away by exchange

at the expiry of that period.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing and feeding-It may be treated like the other bulbuls;
when kept singly or in pairs, a small cage should be preferred.

(84) THE YELLOW-VENTED BULBUL.
(PYCNONOTUS ANALIs-(Horsf.))

1 -' t ' .—-The whole upper plumage brown; the breast brown,
and £1: calfdbtiiien whitish; vent sulphur-yellow. It 1s of the same 5129

- t d B al bulbul. . .
as thgf—ial‘lh: Mali}? peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Cochin-China

' ' ' ' t of the province of
d Slam; also found In the southernmost d1strIc
Tbnasserim, and abundant on the 1s1and of Mergm.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Some of the specimens obtained early in the year 1888 are still
alive.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—These birds appear to do well in a large aviary, where
they find opportunity for searching for food on the ground. .

Food.-—Insects and maggots are as welcome to them as fruits and
satoo; they are rather greedy and not unfrequently over-feed themselves,
and as a consequence suffer from indigestion. .

Treatment in sickness.—-No treatment has ever been attempted In
their cases, nor is it easy to do so when they are living In a very large
place.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE YELLOW-VENTED BULBUL.

It is seen on the ground much more than other species of bulbuls;
it also has a pleasant chirruping note, which It keeps on uttering
while hopping about on the ground or SIttIng on a perch. ,. Its move-
ments are inquisitive, and It Is always ready to make friends With
other species. '

 

 

 

 

IN CAP’I‘IVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 197

(35) THE BLACK DRONGO OR KIN G—CROW.
(DICRURUS ATER-——(Hermann.))
Bengali—Ema.

A very common and well-known bird in Lower Bengal.

Hab.—-Common in Bengal and other parts of India, extending to
China, Siam and Cochin-China; also found in the Himalayas up to
about 7,000 feet. They disappear from some localities during certain
seasons of the year; although pretty abundant in the garden and in the
neighbourhood at other times, scarcely any can be seen during the
rainy season. ’

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of late no attempt has been made to exhibit them in the garden,
so that there is no record of the period during which one has lived in
actual captivity here; experience has, however, shown that they do not
bear captivity well.

Housing.——There are certain difficulties in keeping this bird; it
requires a lofty and spacious place, but owing to its extremely pugna-
cious habits it cannot be lodged with other birds; in captivity it finds no
opportunity of sweeping down or taking upward flights to catch flying
insects, and does not easily learn to adapt its habits to altered circum-
stances. For an account of the habits of this bird, Jerdon’s “Birds of
India,” volume I, may be consulted.

(36) THE HAIR-CRESTED DRONGO.
(CHIBIA HOTTENTOTTA—(Linn.) )
Hindi and Bengali—Kesraj.

This is also a common and well-known bird in Bengal.
Hab.——Besides Bengal it is found in the Western Coast of India;

the Himalayas as far east as Assam; Burmah and extreme south of
Tenasserim.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record has been kept, but it bears captivity better than the

black drongo.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-it may be kept as a pet in asmall cage about three feet
square, or exhibited in a large aviary; it is better not to keep any small
birds with it, as it is apt to tyrannize over them.

Food.-—-Insects, minced meat, satoo, boiled rice and milk, 850.; it is
also fond of honey and other sweets. It is, however, better not to allow
pure honey to birds in captivity, as the constant habit of cleaning the
beak renders the feathers sticky and uncomfortable.

   

 

 

198 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The only ailment from which these birds have been known to suffer
in captivity is a horny tongue, generally accompanied by a filamentous
growth at the tip (see No. 24).

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS.

It becomes tame and sociable in captivity.

(37) THE LARGE-TAILED DRONGO.

(DISSEMURUS PARADISEUS—(Linn.) )
Bengali and Hindi—Bfiimraj.

This interesting bird is widely known in Bengal and many other
parts of India. It varies somewhat in Size and the length of its
lateral tail-feathers and the tuft of its forehead; those from Bengal we
generally smaller with comparatively smaller head tufts than those from
Goruckpore, Almora, and other places in the Himalayas and the Terai.

Hab.——Most parts of India, also Burmah, Ceylon and Tenasserim.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen obtained in 1886 is still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Homing-May be treated like the preceding specimen (No. 36).
If kept in a cage, the latter should be large, as otherwise the tail
will be injured. In this garden the Bhimraj is kept in one of the
smaller divisions of the principal aviary, which is about ten feet long,
six feet broad, and some twenty-two feet high. A specimen has been
known to be so amiable in disposition as to keep company with pigeons
and chakar partridges; as soon, however, as an attempt is made to
associate other species of drongos, or even magpies, it swoops down upon
and torments them. Whether it is kept in a cage or in an aviary,
a bath should be provided. ’

Food.——Minced meat, satoo, insects, maggots, &c. A bhimraj has
been known to kill rats and lizards.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These birds suffer from bad moult, and in such cases the long tail
feathers do not appear until after the next season. The only treatment
that can be recommended is cleanliness and good food.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A 'BHIMRAJ.

Very sociable in habits, and when properly tamed affords great
amusement; intelligent and knowing, and has evidently some idea of
fun ;t bhlmrajes have been known to frighten shamas by mewing like
a ca .

~ ' 5 “‘ W'W’WW. W“"“ V :21" W ' ,, «

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 199

(38) THE GREY-BAOKED SHRIKE.

(LANIUS TEPHRON OTUS——(Vig.) )
A specimen lived for a few days only.

(39) THE BLACK-NAPED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS IN DICUS~Jerolon.)

Bright yellow, with a horse-shoe shaped black mark on the nape
extending from the base of the bill. Length about 9% inches.
Hab.—-—Greater portion of the Indian peninsula.

(40) THE ANDAMAN BLACK-NAPED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS AN DAMANE'N SIS- Tytl.)

Smaller than the preceding species and with a narrower black band
on the nape.

The females have the yellow parts less bright and the back washed
with green. The young males have their back also washed with
olive green.

Hubs—Andaman Islands.

(41) THE INDIAN BLACK-HEADED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS MELANOCEPHALUS~(Linn.) )
Hindi—Pila/c, Zardak. Bengali—Bene-Bm.

' The plumage of the whole body bright yellow; head, chin, throat
and upper breast black.
Hab.—-—Very common in Bengal and many other parts of India;
also found in Burmah, Tenasserim, Ceylon and the Andaman Islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None of these birds have as yet lived in the garden for more than
four years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—-All of them do well in a large aviary with other birds;
new arrivals or recently-captured birds should, of course, be kept in
small cages until they become used to captivity.

Fuod.-Satoo, insects, fruits, &c.; they especially like peepul fruits,
and have also been observed to eat with avidity the fruits of Ficus
comosa and sweet Inga.

Nothing particular is known about their ailments in captivity.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF ORIOLES.

As a rule the orioles are shy birds, and therefore difficult to
tame, When three, four, or more of one species are living together,

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

 

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The only ailment from which these birds have been known to suffer
in captivity is a horny tongue, generally accompanied by a filamentous
growth at the tip (see No. 24).

OBSERVATIONS .ON THE HABITS.

It becomes tame and sociable in captivity.

(37) THE LARGE-TAILED DRONGO.

(DISSEMURUS PARADISEUS-(Linn.))
Bengali and Hindi—Brimraj.

This interesting bird is widely known in Bengal and many other
parts of India. It varies somewhat in size and the length of its
lateral tail-feathers and the tuft of its forehead; those from Bengal ale
generally smaller with comparatively smaller head tufts than those from
Goruckpore, Almora, and other places in the Himalayas and the Terai.

Hab.—-Most parts of India, also Burmah, Ceylon and Tenasserim.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen obtained in 1886 is still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-——May be treated like the preceding Specimen (No. 36).
If kept in a cage, the latter should be large, as otherwise the tail
will be injured. In this garden the Bhimraj is kept in one of the
smaller divisions of the principal aviary, which is about ten feet long,
six feet broad, and some twenty-two feet high. A specimen has been
known to be so amiable in disposition as to keep company with pigeons
and chakar partridges; as soon, however, as an attempt is made to
associate other species of drongos, or even magpies, it swoops down upon
and torments them. Whether it is kept in a cage or in an aviary,
a bath should be provided. '

Facet—Minced meat, satoo, insects, maggots, &c. A bhimraj has
been known to kill rats and lizards.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These birds suffer from bad moult, and in such cases the long tail
feathers do not appear until after the next season. The only treatment
that can be recommended is cleanliness and good food.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A ‘BHIMRAJ.

Very sociable in habits, and when properly tamed affords great
amusement; intelligent and knowing, and has evidently some idea of
fun it bhimrajes have been known to frighten shamas by mewing like
a ca .

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 199

(38) THE GREY-BAOKED SHRIKE.

(LANIUS TEPHRON OTUS—(Vig.) )
A specimen lived for a few days only.

(39) THE BLACK-NAPED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS IN DICU S—Jerdon.)

Bright yellow, with a horse-shoe shaped black mark on the nape
extending from the base of the bill. Length about 9%; inches.
Hab.-—Greater portion of the Indian peninsula.

(40) THE ANDAMAN BLACK-NAPED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLU S AN DAMAN EN SIS-—- Tytl.)

Smaller than the preceding species and with a narrower black band
on the nape.

The females have the yellow parts less bright and the back washed
with green. The young males have their back also washed with
olive green.

Huh—Andaman Islands.

(41) THE INDIAN BLACK-HEADED ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS MELANOCEPHALUS—(Lz‘nn.))
Hindi-Pilak, Zardalc. Bengali—~Bene-Bau.

' The plumage of the whole body bright yellow; head, chin, throat
and upper breast black.
Hab.-—-—Very common in Bengal and many other parts of India;
also found in Burmah, Tenasserim, Ceylon and the Andaman Islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None of these birds have as yet lived in the garden for more than
four years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——~All of them do well in a large aviary with other birds;
new arrivals or recently-captured birds should, of course, be kept in
small cages until they become used to captivity.

Fucd.—-—Satoo, insects, fruits, &c.; they especially like peepul fruits,
and have also been observed to eat with avidity the fruits of Ficus
comosa and sweet Inga.

Nothing particular is known about their ailments in captivity.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF ORIOLES.

As a rule the orioles are shy birds, and therefore difficult to
tame. When three, four, or more of one species are living together,

 

 

 

 

200 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

they are seldom found to associate with each other; they are, however,
not quarrelsome birds; all of them have a melodious quuId note, .which
they may be often heard to utter, while on the wmg or seated high on
a perch. Orioles are seldom seen on the ground.

(42) THE MAROON ORIOLE.

(ORIOLUS TRAILLII—(Vig.) )

The prevailing colour of the plumage maroon-red; all about the
head black. .

In young specimens the head and the upper part brown; bIll
bluish grey; irides pale buffy-yellow; the total length of the bud 18
about 11% inches.

Ha b.——-Found in the Himalayas from the Valley of the Sutlej to
Assam, the Khasia Hills, Manipur, Tenasserim, Pegu and Arracan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

. A specimen lived for about eighteen months in the garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding it may be treated like other
orioles; the specimen that lived in the garden appeared to be more
carnivorous in its appetite than other species of orioles.

Nothing particular is known about its habits.

(43) THE SOUTHERN GRACKLE, OR THE SOUTHERN
HILL MYN A.

(EULABES RELIGIOSAw-(Linm) )
Hab.——-Forest-clad hills of Southern India.

(44) THE INDIAN GRACKLE, OR. THE NEPAL
HILL MYNA.

(EULABES INTERMEDIA—(A. Hay.”

The total length of this bird is. from 10% to 11 inches, that is, about
5} to 1 inch larger than the preceding species; the arrangement of the
wattles, which are smaller, is also dIfiferent from that of the other.

Hab.—-Distributed along the lower ranges of the Himalayas from
Kumaon to Assam, extending to Burmah and Tenasserim, also found in
the Andamans and Nicobars; the specimens which are now and then
brought to Calcutta from Midnapore are probably from Western Bengal
and the Central Provinces.

Albinoid form of hill-myna is not uncommon. The single speci-
men of white myna that lived in the garden some time ago came from
the Andamans.

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 201

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About eight years. Once acclimatized these birds bear captivity
well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——-The hill mynas do as well in small cages as in a large
aviary, the advantages and disadvantages in both being well balanced.
If kept in a cage, the latter should be at least three feet long, two feet
broad and about the same in height, with the necessary perches, feeding
and drinking cups and a bathing vessel. These birds are somewhat
addicted to spilling their food, and for this, and other reasons their sur-
roundings require constant cleaning: a thin bed of soft hay spread over
the bottom of the cage, and renewed once every day, will serve to keep it
tidy and clean. The cage should be placed in such a situation that the
birds may have the benefit of the morning sun while protected from
draughts and cold, to which they, especially the young birds, are very
susceptible. Even where a large aviary is available for their accommoda-
tion, a ca e should always be preferred for the location of young hill
mynas, w ose wattles and lappets are yet undeveloped, inasmuch as they
are likely to require much careful nursing until after the growth of these
processes.

Food.-—Hill mynas are exclusively fruit—eating birds, but in capti-
vity they also eat satoo, boiled rice and milk, bread and milk and sundry
other articles of food consumed by man; some of them have been known
to become accustomed to eat boiled eggs and even minced meat; where
plenty of. fruits, such as papya, plantains, dates, figs, &c., are available,
no other food seems to be required; yearling birds in captivity require
careful feeding; satoo, bread and milk should constitute their principal
diet, fruit being sparingly given.

Transport.-—Hill mynas kept as pets in India are not unfrequently
taken to Europe by their owners; all that is required in such cases is
to get a quilted cover made for the cage and keep it inside the cabin,
especially when cold latitudes are reached. When, however, a number

‘ of them are to be transported, the best plan is to put them in a snug

plank cage well covered with felt and having proper arrangements
to admit hot water at the bottom. These birds have never bred in this,
or, so far as is known, in any other garden.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

A certain afiection of the eye akin to ophthalmic is most common
among these birds in captivity; it either afliects one or both the eyes,
and is generally caused by exposure and cold, although unsuitable diet—
ing may also have much to do with it. If the patient happens to be
living in an aviary, it should at once be removed to a small cage, so as to
admit of its being handled for treatment. The eyes should be gently
washed with sulphate of zinc lotion (sulphate of zinc 1 grain, and water
1 ounce) twice daily, and the bird kept in a warm place, the cage bein
covered up with a piece of linen or, if the weather is cold, with a
blanket; mild cases will yield to this treatment within two or three days.
It generally, however, assumes a severer form before any notice is taken

 

 

 

202 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

and proper treatment ad0pted; the eyes and the surrounding parts
become swollen, the eyelids tumefied and closed, and the conjunctiva
completely covered with thickened and hardened discharge. As it
cannot but be very painful to the patient, before any attempt at cleaning
the eyes and surrounding parts is made, poppy-head fomentation should
be applied with a sponge for about a quarter of an hour; the eye-lids
should then be gently opened, the thickened and hardened matter
adhering thereto and to the conjunctiva removed, and the solution of
sulphate of zinc applied with the tip of a feather; on the second day the
discharge will be less and the swelling much reduced, and in two or three
days the patient will probably recover; a dose of castor-oil, twenty to
thirty drops, in a little milk, should be given internally at the beginning;
the diet should be light and nourishing, such as bread and milk, satoo
prepared with ghi and eggs, &c.; no fruits, eSpecially plantains and
papya, are to be allowed. Mynas also suffer from other ailments inci-
dental to a captive life. Another disease to which only the young birds
become subject appears to have some close connection with the growth
of their wattles and the lappets, as it commonly shows itself during the
period while those processes are in the act of growing. It consists of
a tumour or an abscess near to or on some part of the wattles; by way
of treatment a poultice made of burnt turmeric (Curcuma longa) is
generally applied by the bird-fanciers of Lower Bengal, and almost
invariably with good results ; as the young bird shows great aversion to
food while suifering from this malady, it requires to be hand-fed; it is
needless to say that the bird should be kept warm, and the cleanliness of
the cage thoroughly attended to. It may be mentioned here that
when a tumour or an abscess is well pronounced, it is by far the best to
lance it.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF HILL MYNAS.

Besides being hardy and bearing captivity well when once acclima-
tized, hill mynas generally have many taking qualities, and it is no
wonder that they are so largely caged, tamed and made pets of in India;
they, especially the Nepal hill mynas, are, when tamed, intelligent and
knowing, and learn to talk easily and with remarkable fluency and
accuracy. On the occasion of a bird-show held in the garden, a hill
myna owned and exhibited by a commander of one of the river steamers
very much amused the visitors by its idiomatic expressions, and such
words of command as “ heave up,” “ go aft” or with ejaculations such
as, “ not a drop to save my son ,” concluding the speech with character-
istic abuse, “ 0, you soor.” In this garden hill mynas soon learn to
imitate the notes of other birds, notably those of cockatoos; they are
thoroughly arboreal, seldom coming to the ground.

(45) THE GLOSSY CALORNIS.

(CALORNIS CHALYBEIUS~(Horqf.))

Descrzption.-Externally black with a brilliant green gloss; length
about eight inches ; irides crimson-scarlet.

Huh—Eastern Bengal, Khasia Hills, Tipperah, Arracan, the
southern part of Tenasserim extending to the Malay peninsula, Sumatra,

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN'LOWER BENGAL. 203

Java and Borneo; all the birds received into this garden have been
from the Andamans and Nicobars.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

These birds appear to bear captivity well, as some of them lived
for about five years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—As they are gregarious and extremely arboreal, a large
and spacious aviary is the best accommodation that can be assigned to
them ; they do better in company than singly or in pairs.

Food—Fruits and insects, but in captivity they learn to eat satoo
also.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE GLOSSY CALOBNIS.

The glossy calornis appears to be an extremely noisy bird, never
ceasing to chatter for a minute; it is shy and restless.

(46) THE ROSE-COLOURED STARLING.

(PASTOR ROSEUS~(Linn.) )
Hindi-Golabi Myna.

The plumage of this bird differs in colour according to the season ;
in spring and summer all about the head, throat and upper breast black,
and the upper plumage rose-colour; feathers are thrown Oif during the
rainy season, and during the autumn and the winter the black feathers
of the head, &c., are tipped With buif, and the upper plumage dirty
rosy-brown. .

The total length of the bird is about 8% to 9 Inches. Those seen
in captivity in Bengal have scarcely any crest, and they seldom assume
their proper colour. On the contrary they have been Observed to lose
the rosy tint of their plumage after a year in captivity.

Hab.-—With the exception of Lower and Eastern Bengal, it is
found all over India, including the lower ranges of the Himalayas as
far east as Sikhim; in Western Bengal it is known to occur in Man-
bhoom and adjacent places and rarely at Bankoora; also found in
portions of Eastern Europe, Central and Western Asia. It is not,
however, common in India throughout the year.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

They do not appear to thrive well in Lower Bengal; a few speci-
mens have, however, been living in the garden for the last four years,
but so far as the colour and crest are concerned they are poor specimens.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—A large aviary is the best accommodation for these birds,
and it is advisable to keep a number of them together.

 

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204 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

” Food.—-—Satoo, maggots, insects, fruits, and grains of various kinds ;
they feed much on the ground.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OE THE ROSE-COLOURED STARLING.

However active they may be in their wild state and in other parts
of India, they appear to be rather listless and inactive in captivity
in Lower Bengal ; when half a dozen or more of them are living in one
place they generally keep together, whether on the ground or on the
perch, and seldom engage themselves in pursuits of pleasure or exercise ;
a large number of these birds have lately been acquired, they appear to
spend most of their time on the ground, or on the wooden stages on
which plants are arranged.

(47) THE COMMON INDIAN STARLING.
(STURNUS MENZBIERI—(Skarpe.) )
Hindinz'lz'a Myna ; Tilom.

Description—Black, with fulvous-white specks; there is a purplish
red and bronze-green gloss in the plumage.

Herbs—It is a migratory bird, and a winter visitant to India, where
it is common in the Himalayas and in the North-Western Provinces
during that season, extending sometimes to the Deccan in the south
and Monghyr in the north-east.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
There is no record of the period during which one has actually
lived in the garden, but they are known to bear captivity well.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.
With regard to housing and feeding it may be treated like the
preceding species; as a cage-bird it does well.
(48) THE GREY-BEADED MYNA.
(STURN IA MALABARICA~(Gmel.) )
Hindi and Bengali-Pawi.

The pawz' or the grey-headed myna is a well-known bird in Bengal,

so that no description is necessary.
Hub.-——It is found throughout India, being most common in the
North-Western Provinces and some portions of Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Several of them have been living for the last six or seven years
in the garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

It does well in a large aviary or in a lar 9 ca e in com a
with birds of other species. , g g ’ P 113'

  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 205

Food.-—-—Consists of grains, fruits and insects; in captivity, like
many other birds, it thrives on satoo.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE GREY-BEADED MYNA.

It is very active and restless in habits and mostly .arboreal; it has
a melodious note, accompanied by much chattering; It becomes very
tame when caged.

(49) THE ANDAMAN MYNA.
(STURNIA AN DAMANENSIS—(Tytl.) )

. Dcscrz'ptz'on.—-White, with upper plumage pale-greyish, and the
lower plumage tinged with buff; the wings and tail glossy. black, the
latter tipped with white ; legs and feet pale yellow; bill greenlsh yellow;
the total length of this bird is about 9 inches.

Bah—The Andamans and Nicobars.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living in the garden since 1887.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—It does well in a large aviary. .
Food.——Fruits, insects and satoo ; among fruits they are extremely

fond Of the papya (Carica papaya).
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE ANDAMAN MYNA.

These mynas appear to retain their gregarious habit in captivity
also, as whenever there are a number living in the same aviary they
flock together, especially for some time after their arrival; they have
also very cleanly habits.

(50) THE BLACK-BEADED MYNA.
(TEMENUCHUS PAGODABUM—(Gmez.))
Hindi-Pawi myna. Bengali—Monghyr pawi.
Dcscrz'ptz'on.-—Head and crest black, the lower plumage buff, and the
back grey; tail broadly tipped with white; total length about 8 inches ;
bill blue at the base, greenish in the middle, and yellow at the tip.
Hab.——The whole of India as far east as Dacca and throughout
the Himalayas as high as 4,000 to 8,000 feet; it extends to Ceylon and
to Afghanistan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.
May be treated in the same way as the grey-headed myna (No. 48).

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A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(51) THE BLACK-NECKED MYNA.

(GRACULIPICA NIGRICOLLIS—(Paylc.))

Description.——The ihead white, encircled by a broad black collar;
below the collar on the back is a band of black feathers margined
with white; upper plumage dark brown; lower plumage white; tail dark
brown tipped with white; the naked skin around the eye yellow or
greenish—yellow; bill black.

Hab.——Upper Burmah; Tenasserim, Cochin-China, Siam and
Southern China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A few specimens have been living in the garden since the latter
end of 1886.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.———They seem to thrive very well in an aviary; as they are '

extremely sociable birds, they may also do well in small cages, although

this mode of keeping them has never been tried in this garden.
Food.-———In captivity it thrives well on satoo, fruits, maggots and

occasionally minced meat; in fact it is very accommodating in its taste

and appetite.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE BLACK-NEOKED MYNA.

Black-necked myna is of a sociable disposition, and evidently
takes much delight in the presence and company of men; in whichever
part of the large aviary it may be, it IS sure to fly to the side of the cage
on the approach of a‘visitor, even followmg the person from one side to
another; it has, some idea of fun also, and often amuses itself at the
expense of other, and even larger, birds; it is, however, not quarrel-
some ; on the contrary, it may Often be observed attending the toilet of
other species; it whistles beautifully, and has a sweet melodious song; it
sings and whistles with much assiduity and force, rufliing its feathers,

and raising and throwing back its head at each exertion.

(52) THE COMMON MYNA.

(AOBIDOTHERES TRISTIS—(Linn.))
Hindi—~Myna, Desi-myna (6.8., country myna). Bengali—Sable.

This extremely common bird is found all over India, ascending the
Himalayas up to about 8,000 feet ; not found in the northern parts of

Kashmir, or In Tenasserim south of Mergui.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record has been kept, but they are very hardy and bear
confinement well.

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL.‘ 207

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, no particular directions are
necessary. They thrive as well in an aviary as in a small cage.
. Breeding.——They breed freely in the garden, both in captivity and
In a wild state. In building their nests inside the aviaries they make
use of the feathers cast by other birds.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Young birds have several times been noticed to suffer from glan-
dular. seedlings round the aperture Of the cloaca. The bird while suffering
In this way should be kept warm and, if necessary, the part fomented.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE COMMON MYNA.

The common myna is much domesticated in India, and becomes as
tame as the hill myna. It is generally sociable, although sometimes
hhbyt fight a good deal among themselves. They are gregarious in

a 1‘8.

(53) THE BANK MYNA.

(ACRIDOTHERES GIN GIN IANUS—(Lath.) )

Hindi—~G'anga myna. Bengali—Gang salz'k.

Description.——It differs from the common myna in having the
general colour of the plumage grey instead of brown, and in other minor
characteristics, such as the colour of the naked skin round the eye, which
is brick red. -

Hab.——Besides the Gangetic provinces of Bengal, where it is very
abundant, it is found throughout Upper India and Sindh, extending
through the Central Provinces as far south as the Mahanadi; it is also
found in the lower ranges of the Himalayas. The statement that these
birds are migratory in the plains is, to a certain extent, true; they are
known to desert a particular area after having lived and bred there
for years. It is not unlikely that the erosion of the river banks in
which they were accustomed to build their nests has much to do
with such partial migrations. '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About seven years has been the maximum period during which
some of them have lived in this garden.

(54) THE JUNGLE MYNA.

(ETHIOPSAB. EUSCUS—(Wagm

Hindi—Paham' myna. Bengali—~Jlmnt salz’k.

Deacr-iptwn.———All about the head glossy black; the upper plumage
fuscus black; the throat and breast dull cinereous blackish; abdomen

 

 

 

208 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

reddish-cinereous; tail-coverts pure white; bill orange yellow. Those
from the south of India have grey eyes, while those from the north

have yellow ones. . .

Hab.—-—Except in Sindh, Rajputana and Gruzerat, It Is found almost
all over India, ascending the Himalayas up to about 8,000 feet; it does
not appear to be common about Calcutta.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record has been kept.

(55) THE BLACK-CRESTED MYNA.

(ZETHIOPSAR CRISTATELLUS~(Linn.) )

In shape and size it resembles the bank myna; the plumes of the
nostrils are elevated into a crest; almost the entire plumage black, with
green and purple reflexions; bill pale yellow; iris pale orange.

Hab.—-——China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living in the garden for the last five or six
ears.
y All the above mynas may be treated in captivity like the common
myna, which they all resemble in habits.

(56) THE PIED MYNA.

(STURNOPASTOR CONTRA—(Linn.))

Hindi—Ablalc myna. Bengali— Gosalz'k or Gum so 151:.

[Jabs—Very common in Bengal, up to the foot of the Himalayas;
Sylhet, Cachar, and Khasia Hills; also found in the Central Provinces
and parts of Upper India, but unknown in its south and west coasts.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although there is no record of the actual period during which
a particular specimen has lived in the garden, they are known to bear
captivity well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, they may be treated like the
common myna. They do better when a number of them are kept
together in a large aviary. . .

Breeding.——These birds in a wild state regularly breed 1n the
garden, generally building their nest on cotton, peepul and tamarind
trees, and laying three or four eggs. Until after the next autumn moult
the young birds remain a dirty brown in colour. The breedmg season
is from May to about the middle of August. A curious instance of the
usurpation of an unfinished crew’s nest by a pair of pied mynas lately
happened in this garden.

  

 

    

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

   

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE PIED MYNA.

. The pied mynas. are fond of associating in flocks, and neither in
them Wild state nor 1n captivity are they timid birds. They feed much
on the ground; when caged and tamed they learn to sing, whistle and

even imitate other birds. They appear to be less fussy than the common
myna.

(57) THE COMMON PIED BUSH CHAT.

(PRATIN COLA CAPBATA-(Limz.) )
Hindi and Bengali~Peddha.

Descrgntz'ons—The general colour of the plumage black ' a st '
the Wings, u er tail-coverts middle f th bd , ripe on
tail-ooverts, £lllite. , o e a omen, vent, and under
The female dusky brown; rump and u er tail-cove ts f
brownilbgneathdliiale peddish-brown. The males Iairy in shadesr of $133:
somew a accor n oseason; len h b t5” ' '
brown black. g gt a on Inches , blll black, legs
Huh—It is found almost all over India, extending to Burmah and

the Malayan countries and the 1?th ' . 't - _
the delta of Bengal. PPlneB , 1 Is rather less common In

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although specimens have now and then belo ed to the ard
they have not, as a rule, done well in captivity herefgs‘o that then? is 61111:;
record of the period during which one has lived in this garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Geraerzllytspeatkingghthe 0013mm pied bush chat requires the same
care an rea men wi regar to its [wash (1 .~
“Shama” (No. 59). 2 9 an feedmg as the

(58) THE MAGPIE ROBIN.

(corsvcnus SAULARIS-(Linn.))
Hindi and Bengali—Dow].

. The dayal is such a well-known bird in Bengal that no description
13 necessary.

Huh—Throughout the Whole of India ascendin the H' 1
up about 5,000 feet, and extending to Tenassdrim and Cgeylon. Ima ayas

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

As theyDare extremely common in Bengal, and as numbers of them
are livmg Wlthm the garden in a semi-domesticated state, no serious
attempt has ever been made to exhibit them in captivity. Adult birds
should not be caged, as they do not bear captivity at all.

0

209

   

:
,r,‘ ., u,

em... AM... ”a... new. -.._. a. ,

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

May be treated like the “ Shaina ” (No. 5.9). . .

Breeding.——-The magpie robins breed in this garden in a Wild state
from April to July ; they build their nests in holes of trees or hollows
formed by the parting of branches; their favourite trees appear to be the
following :-——mango, peepul, tamarind, and kadam (Nauclea kadamba).
A pair of these birds building in a mango tree close to an aquatic
birds’ tank were observed to carry off the cast-away down of the swans

and other birds.

(59) THE sHAMA.
(CITTOCINCLA MACROURA—(G’mel.) )

No descri tion is necessar .
Hab.-——“ The Shame is a permanent resident of the warm and well-

watered jungles of the Peninsula of India and Burma” (Hume).
Except in the Terai at ,the foot of the North-West Himalayas, it is
unknown in the N orth-Western Provinces of India. Those brought to
Calcutta are generally from Midnapore, Cuttack and Western Bengal:
Specimens are sometimes brought down from Goruckpore 1n the Term
and the Doons; it is scarce in the delta of Bengal, but common in the
hill tracts of Assam, Sylhet, Burmah, Malacca, and even Ceylon.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One of the specimens obtained in 1888 is still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Although it has from time to time been kept in a large aviary with
tolerable success, it should, as a general rule, be treated as a cage-bird,
and for this purpose a light bamboo cage should be preferred. The prac-
tice of covering the shama cages and those of.other singing birds
with a piece of cloth, so generally adopted in India for the purpose, no
doubt, of inducing them to sing at night, has been found to be very
beneficial, especially during the winter. It conduces much to the health
and liveliness of the bird if the cage containing it be taken out every
evening for an airing. Shamas should. be kept singly. . .

Food.-—In captivity its food cons1sts of satoo, prepared With borled
ghi, grasshoppers and maggots. The latter should be perfectly free from
the dirt in which they breed and live. During the Winter and rains,
meat may be given as a substitute for, or in addition to, maggots ; it
should be minced fine and thoroughly washed, and made into very small
pellets : another, and- better way of givmg it, 18. to dwide the minced
meat into tiny lumps, each small enough to be picked up at a time, and
stick them between the wire of the cage in several places.

Shamas do not breed in captivity.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Shamas have been known to suffer from debilitg/ and emacz’atz‘on as
the effect probably of age and confinement. Of the two cases that came

 

IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y 1N LOWER BENGAL. 7 211

under observation, one terminated fatal} the other recove
preper course .111 such a case is to feed the gatient on satoo prepgged gill?
aigérand put in a few drops of syrup of lactate of iron in its drinking-
Bad moultz‘ng is not unfrequent in shamas in ca tivit ' '
zherefore advrsable to pay extra attention when the progess isygdifig ldnli
asides the usual satoo and insects, it should have every now and then,
while moulting, a little boiled egg mixed with the satoo. Cold and
draughts should also be carefully guarded against. . -
. b.hamas have also been found to suffer from a kind of warty growth
in their legs and feet. When in this condition they can hardly sit on their
perch. Before any treatment is attempted the crab should be covered
With lint or flannel to make it soft, and one le the bird to sit with

Egégzable comfort. The warts should be lightly painted with tincture of
e.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE SHAMA.

The shama is remarkable for its charmin '
. . . . g song. Commencm from
the spring until the beginning of the moulting season, it sings Elmost

incessantly every day especially before sunset. Eve b‘ d h
does not possess the same power or melody, ry 1r , owever, ,

(60) THE GREY-WIN GED OUZEL.
(MERULA BOULBOUL—(Latb.))
Hindi and Bengali—Kastum.

Descm'ption.——Dark ashy—black in colour, with a large pale silvery
ashy-grey wing spot; the female is much paler with rufescent-whitish
wing spot; bill, orbits, and legs deep yellow; the total length of the
bird is about 10 inches.

Hab.——It is found almost throughout the whole range of the
Himalayas-from 5,000 to 8,000 feet.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About three years.

(61) GOULD’S OUZEL.

(MERULA GOULDI—Vcrr.)
It resembles the grey-winged ouzel in shape and size; the colour of

the head and neck dull black; throat pale black; wings and tail also dull
black; the rest of the body bright rufous-brown; bill pale yéflow- legs
and feet yellowish. ’

Babs—'Chinav.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About thirteen months.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——The grey-winged ouzel is often caged in Upper India and
in Bengal, but it does well in a large aviary also.
Focal—Insects, fruits and satoo.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE OUZELS.

Both the'grey-winged and Gould’s ouzels are somewhat shy birds,
especially the latter, but they soon become tame and familiar. The grey-
winged ouzel sings and whistles beautifully; both the species feed much
on the ground.

(62) THE ORAN GE-HEADED GROUND THRUSH.
(GEOCICHLA CITRINA—(Lath.))
Hindi and Bengali—ded.

Description.——Head and lower plumage pale brownish-orange;
upper plumage bluish-grey; a white spot on the wings; bill horny-black;
legs flesh-coloured ; total length about 8% inches.

Huh—Throughout the whole extent of the lower ranges of the
Himalayas; jungles of Northern and Central India, extending through
Assam to Burmah; not uncommon during the winter and spring in
certain parts of Bengal; sometimes brought to the Calcutta market
from Midnapore, Bankoora, Pachamba and Deoghur.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Above five years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—This bird does well both in large and small aviaries; the
former are, where available, to be preferred; as it is rather shy and
retiring in disposition, shrubs in pots or other means of shelter will be
much appreciated.

Food.—-Satoo and insects; in captivity it also eats fruits, bread, and
other articles of food.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Cases of diarrlzwa have been met with amongst these thrushes,
probably brought on by overfeeding. 'No treatment has ever been
attempted.

' OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE ORANGE-HEADED GROUND
THRUSH.

It is shy and unobtrusive ; the specimens kept in this garden have
been seldom seen, except when feeding, in the Open spaces of their
habitation, their favourite resorts being one or the other of the wooden
stands, on which pots Of ornamental shrubs are arranged; here, hidden
away amidst the foliage, one or all may be seen sitting motionless for
minutes together. The geocichla, however, is by no means an inactive
bird, nor is it altogether devoid of social instincts.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(63) THE COMMON WEAVER-BIRD.

(PLOCEUS BAYA—Blgth.)

Hindi and Bengali—-—Ba-ya or Babaz'.

. Huh—The common weaver-bird is found throughout the whole of
India, extending to Assam, Burmah, Ceylon and Malayana. Although
a permanent resident in most parts of India, it is somewhat migratory
In Its habits, so that it has been known to desert a particular locality
which it frequented for years; its wanderings, however, are confined
within a comparatively limited area.

(64) THE BLACK-THROATED WEAVER-BIRD.

(PLOCEUS BENGALENSIS-(Linn.))

Bengali—Kantamala bag/a (219., necklaced baya.)

Huh—Different parts of Lower Bengal, extending to Assam,
Tipperah, and parts of Burmah; it is less common about Calcutta and
its neighbourhood than the preceding species; the contrary appears to be
the case with regard to Eastern Bengal, where this species is more plenti-
ful than the common baya.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Both the buyers, especially the common weaver-birds, bear captivity
well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—These birds are easy to accommodate; as a rule, they
should be placed in a large aviary or in an extensive cage; to give them
occupation and amusement tufts of jute, bundles of hay or palm-leaves
should be provided; the common weaver-birds are not unfrequently,
caged and tamed.

Food.———Consists principally of various kinds of seeds, but in captivity,
and especially when caged and tamed, they learn to eat other things.

Breeding. ———The common weaver-birds have, on one or two occa-
sions, been known to build, or at least to attempt doing so, within their
prison, but without success; this appeared to have been due chiefly to
the presence of other birds, which destroyed the nests as often as
begun. For further information on this subject, “Jerdon’s Birds of
India,” volume II, page 343, and “ Hume’s Nests and Eggs,” volume
II, page 114, may be consulted.

(65) THE CRIMSON-CROWNED WEAVER-BIRD.

(EUPLECTES FLAMMICEPS ~Swinh.)

The golden-yellow colour of the head disappears altogether during
the period of moult, which is rather prolonged, lasting from three to four
months.

 

 

 

 

 

 

214 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS
Hab.—-—West Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About three years.

(66) THE PARADISE WHYDAH BIRD.

(VIDUA PARADISEA—(Limt) )

Descriptions—In form and size it resembles a Munia; the distin-
guishing characteristic of the birds of this genus Is the extraordlnary
' length of their tails; in this species a rufi also 1s, developed.
Hab.—-—West Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAI’TIVITY.

About three years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

H ousing.-—-Both the crimson-crowned weaver . and the Paradise
whydah birds have done well in large side cages With such small and
harmless companions as munias and Java sparrows.

Food.-—Seeds of various kinds.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The crimson-crowned weaver~bird is very shy, the Paradise whydah
is restless, active, and to a certain extent sociable. While restlessly
moving about from perch to perch, the latter has the curious habit of
constantly raising its head and looking up to the roof of the cage.

(67) THE BLACK-BEADED MUNIA.

(MUNIA MALACCA—(LinnJ)

All the munias that have from time to time been exhibited in the
garden are extremely common and familiar birds in Lower Bengal, and
therefore no description is necessary for any of them.

Huh—Southern and Central India and Ceylon, rarely Bengal.

(68) THE CHESTNUT-BELLIED MUNIA.)

(MUN IA ATRICAPILLA—(Vieilm )

Huh—Throughout Bengal and the foot and the lower ranges of
the Himalayas; rare in Southern India, though specimens are sometimes
met with in the eastern coast of Madras; Ceylon and Tenasserim; num-
bers of them occur within a few miles of Calcutta, where stragglers are
generally found. .

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL.

(69) THE WHITE-BACKED MUNIA.

(UROLONCHA STRIATA—-(Linn.) )
Bengali-Sln'kam' mania.

Hab.-—Chiefly Southern India, thou h not '
Bengal, Arracan and Ceylon. g uncommon In Lower

(70) THE SPOTTED MUNIA.
(UROLONCHA PUNCTULATA~(Linn.))

Hindi and Bengali—Talia mum‘s, sabz mum's.

Had—Distributed throughout India and Ceylon, extending to
Assam, Burmah, and Tenasserim; numbers of them are found in the
drier parts of Lower Bengal.

(71) THE INDIAN RED MUNIA.

(SPOREGINTHUS AMANDAVA~(Linn.))

Hindi. and Bengali—13d! or Ldl Mania.

Hab.——Abundant in Lower Bengal and N orth-Western India and

the lower ranges of the Himalayas, extending to Assam and Burmah;
somewhat rare in Southern India. K

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CARTIVITY.

Some may have lived in the arden for three ears or more b t
record of the individual specimensghas been kept. y i ’ u no

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.———Munias may be kept in large sized ca es and 11
treated like the red-billed liothrix (No. 23), They: especgi‘glll;mth{
Indian red species, are sometimes kept in very small cages and tamed.

Food—Various kinds of seeds, especially kangni (Pam‘cum 5mg.

r

cum); in captivity they learn to eat fruits and sad and milk.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A MUNIA.

Munias are extremely restless and playful birds and are never silent
during the day, but always chirping; the red munia sometimes whistles

beautifully; they are generally very sociable,
(72) THE JAVA SPARROW.

(PADDA ORYZIVORA—(Linn.))

. Descrz'ptiom—In size slightly larger than the mtmia, bill thick,
conical and stout, and of a cherry—red colour; the prevailing colour of

 

 

 

 

_" v, I . 1
j I; ‘ Mm“.

216 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALs

the plumage albescent ashy, with conspicuous white cheek spots; a

white variet is also common.
Hal)..— ava, Sumatra, Malacca, Lombock, the Philippines, and

southern provinces Of China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About six years; but it is difficult, where a number of small birds
of the same species, acquired at different times, are kept, to determine
individual identity.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding, the Java sparrow may be
treated like the munia, but as it is a hardy bird, capable of holding its
own with others, it may also be kept in a large aviary.

(73) THE BLACK-TAILED GROSBEAK.

(CROCCOTHRAUSTES MELANURUS—(Swinh.))

Description.——The total length of the bird is about 9 inches, bill
stout, conical, and of a yellow colour with greenish apex; head, neck, and
chin black; the prevailing colour of the upper plumage greyish-brown;
chest whitlsh-grey; abdomen yellowish-brown; wing black with white
tips; tail black and forked.

Hab.-—Common in Central and Southern China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About three years and more.

(74) THE ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK.

(HEDYMELES LUDOVICIANUS~(Li7m.) )

Prevailing colour of the plumage greyish-brown or black, head
and neck, black; breast rose—coloured; total length about 10 inches.
Hab.-—North America.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About thirteen months.

(75) THE CARDINAL GROSBEAK.

(CARDIN ALIS VIRGIN IAN US—-—(Briss.) )

Of a bright red colour, subcrested; total length about 10 inches;
a black band across the forehead and throat.

Huh—Extends from the Southern United States through Mexico
to Yactan and Belize.

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 217

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About three ears.

Housing.——T e grosbeaks do well in a large aviary; the cardinal
grosbeak is shy, and like any other bird of that nature requires watch-
ing for the first few days, whether it feeds properly while living with
o ers.

Food.—-—-In captivity they flourish on fruits and grains and soon
become accustomed to feed on other kinds of food to which they are
perhaps strangers in their wild state; they have been frequently observed
to devour satoo and bread and milk with equal relish.

(76) THE COMMON ROSE FINCH.

(CARPODACUS ERYTHRINUS—(Pall.) )
Hindi—Tutz'.

Descrcption.—The head, throat, breast, rump, and the flanks of the
abdomen, of a roseate colour, deeper about the head and neck; upper
plumage generally brown; the breeding plumage, which they assume
about the end of spring, is almost crimson; the colour is generally very
subdued in those that have lived some time in captivity; the total length
of the bird is about 5% inches.

Huh—During the Winter it is found almost all over India, rarer
towards the south, but common in Northern India, the Terai, and the
Himalayas, extending to Assam and Arracan; it is also found over the
greater part of Central and Northern Asia and Europe.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Roughly speaking, about four years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and feeding it may be treated like the
Java sparrow and red-billed liothrix.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITs HABITS.

Sociable and restless ; fond of congregating together; has a pleasing
note.

(77) THE HOUSE SPARROW.

(PA-SSER DOMESTICUS~(Li1m.))

Hindi-Gcwrz'ya. Bengali— Ckadaz' or 01mm.

Hab.-——The house sparrow is found almost all over India, abun-
dantly in most parts, more rarely in some, as the Malabar Coast in the
south and in other places where the rainfall 18 great; It ascends the
Himala as up to a moderate height, and extends to Assam, Arracan,
Pegu, Siam and Ceylon. The food supphed to the animals In the
garden evidently attracts enormous numbers of them Within 1t.

 

mn~m~«e.wwu. a... n. I I _ «e. Mammary“), . I “A ... A I

”mm-—

 

 

   
 
 
    
  
 
 
 
 
  
  
 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(78) THE OHAFFINCH.
(FRINGILLA CELEBS—Lina.)

Descra‘ptz’on.—Top and sides of the head and nape slaty-blue, back
dull—brown, with faint blackish streaks; the rump and the upper tail?-
coverts dull green ; the tail feathers greyish-black, the outer ones being
faintly white margined; the exposed parts of the wings blackish-
brown; the wing-coverts black with conspicuous white patches ; cheeks,
throat, and the under parts generally reddish-brown; bill bluish-
plumbacious; total length about 6 inches. .

Bah—The chaffinch is found almost all over Europe, extending
to Northern Africa in the south, and as far east as Beluchistan.

(79) THE GREENFINCH.

(LIGURINUS ClILORIS—(Limz) )

Descriptions—The prevailing colour of the upper plumage ashy—
green; the chin and breast apple-green, brighter in the lower breast;
the abdomen bright greenish yellow; wings blackish-brown, the basal
portion of the primaries yellow, with generally a blackish-brown spot;
the terminal portion of the tail feathers blackish-brown, the basal
portion yellow; a large grey spot at the side of the head below the
eyes; the iris hazel; total length about six inches; the females are
somewhat smaller and much less brightly coloured, being generally ashy-
brown, tinged with greenish, the abdomen somewhat albescent.

Huh—The greenfinch or the green linnet, as it is popularly called,
is distributed throughout the whole of Europe, except the extreme
north; it extends as far south as the west side of North Africa, and
eastward as far as the Ural mountains.

(80) THE GOLDFINCH.

(CARDUELIS ELEGANS~StephJ

Description—The distinguishing characteristics of the goldfinch
are its scarlet crown and throat, and the bright yellow of the basal
portion of the wing; the hinder part of the crown, the nape, and a
crescent—shaped band from the nape to the side of the neck black; the
parts immediately at the base of the beak, and round and in front of
the eye also black, but this is not conspicuous when viewed from a
distance; the lower throat below the scarlet and the sides of the head,
between the black and scarlet, white, and so is also a small triangular
space on the hind neck immediately below the black; back, sides, and
the breast bright brown; the lesser wing—coverts black; the greater wing-
coverts, and the basal half of the quills bright yellow at their exposed
parts, the terminal half black with white tips; the tail-feathers black;
the two central feathers white-tipped; some of the outer tail—feathers
having elongated white marks near the tip of the inner webs; the
female is much duller in colour, the red of the forehead and throat much
less or none; total length about five inches.

 

   
  
  
  
  
  
 

    
    
  
  

 

 

 
  
    
  

      
    
      
        
     
       
   
 
   
     
       
         
   
       
     
      
      
   
   
    
  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 219

IIab.—-Found almost throughout the whole of Europe, excepting
the high north; North—East and North-West Africa; Asia Minor,
extending as far east as Turkistan.

(81) THE CANARY FINCH.

(SERINUS CANARIUS-—(Linn.))

The canary finch is so well-known a bird-that any description would

be superfluous.
Had—Canary Islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although specimens have occasionally been kept on deposit, cana-
ries are not generally exhibited, and no record has therefore been kept
of the period during which any Specimen has actually lived in the
garden; it is well known that they thrive perfectly in captivity.

(82) THE LINNET.

(LINOTA CANNABINA~(Linn.) )

Description.———The general colour of the plumage above chestnut
brown ; the crown, hind neck, and sides of the neck brownish-grey; the
chief characteristic of the bird is its crimson-red of the forehead and
breast ; total length about 5 5 inches. v

Hab.——-The linnet is a very common bird throughout Europe, and
is extensively distributed; besides Europe it is found in North Africa,

Turkistan, the hills in Southern Persia, the Elburz Mountains, &c.

(83) THE MEALY REDPOLL.

(LINOTA LINARIA~(Linn.))

Description.—It resembles the preceding very closely, but differs
in having the colour of its back blackish brown, the feathers being
somewhat broadly margined with pale brown, and in some other minor
details, as the extent of the crimson red of the breast, which in this
species extends to the throat; the quills are not margined white, but
brown or whitish brown; the crimson-red of the forehead is the same as
in the linnet; total length about 5 inches; the female differs from the
male in having no red on the breast.

Huh—The mealy redpoll has also a wide range of distribution,
being found in Europe, Asia, as far as Japan; and North America, from
the Atlantic to the Pacific.

(84) THE YELLOW BUNTING.
(EMBERIZA CITRINELLA—Linn.)

Description.—-Head and the under parts generally citron yellow; the
nape and back of the neck greenish; a chestnut brown moustachial stripe;

 

 

220 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

the forehead and sides marked with faint and narrow black lines; back
fulvous—brown, and mottled; the rump and upper tail-covert bright
brown with longitudinal faint black lines; wings rufous-brown, washed
with greenish; the terminal portion of the quills dark brown; total
length of the bird is about 6 inches; the female is somewhat smaller, and
differs from the male in having no brown on the back and rump; the
prevailing colour being a subdued greenish grey, mottled with dark stripes
in the feathers.

Hab.—-Common in Central Europe, from which it extends northward
to Lapland and eastward to Siberia, becoming scarcer in Southern
Europe.

(85) THE SKYLARK.

(ALAUDA ARVENSIS~(Linn.) )

Hindi and Bengali—Bharat or‘Bhamt Pairs/2i.

Descriptions—Sandy brown above with little deep brown markings
to the feathers; the crown of the head slightly crested; feathers of the
crest rounded; quills dark brown, edged narrowly with sandy brown;
cheeks buify-white, with minute deep brown spots; throat and chest
brownish-white, marked with small brown specks; abdomen creamy white,
so also the under surface of the tail ; total length of the bird about 7%
inches. The colour of its plumage varies much according to the season of
the year; besides, there are several well-known forms of the common
skylark, such as white, black and cream-coloured specimens.

Hab.—-—-In India the skylark is found in the Himalayas, where it
breeds at elevations from 8,000 to 10,000 feet, and its nests have also
been found in Kooloo and Kashmir; also found in Ceylon, North
China, Siberia, Palestine, Egypt, Northern Africa, British Islands and
Europe generally. The specimens exhibited in this garden were from
the British Islands.

(86) THE WOODLARK.

(ALAUDA ARBOREA—(Limz.) )

Description.-—-Smaller than the preceding, and lighter in colour;
a yellowish-white broad stripe commencing from behind each nostril
passes behind to the nape, then passing downwards and forwards joins
the white of the upper breast, thus enclosing an irregular triangular
space at the side of the head including the eye; under parts yellowish
white; sides of chin, throat, and breast spotted with dark brown; flanks
striped; quills dark brown, edged with whitish; secondaries tipped and
edged with dull rufous; tail dark brown; the outer feather on each side
tipped and the outer web bordered white; the total length is about 55
inches.

Huh—Central and Southern Europe, extending eastward as far as
the Ural Mountains; is always present in England, though rarer in some
parts than in others. ‘

Observations—These birds (Nos. 78 to 86) were, with the exception
of the canary finch, imported from England, and they differed somewhat

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER. BENGAL. 221

from the descriptions here given, most of them being paler; the scarlet
on the crown and neck of the goldfinch was subdued.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

. Of these English birds, the greenfinch, linnet, and the mealy redpoll
11ved the longest—about fourteen months: the others died within a few
months after their arrival.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—~Most of them do well in small cages, but larger ones
should be preferred; in the hot moist climate of Lower Bengal
care should be taken to keep them in a cool and airy place, espe-
cially during the summer; the least neglect in this respect is likely
to be attended with fatal consequences; all of them must have ready
access to water, both for drinking and bathing; when there are
a number of them, either of one or of several species, they can be
suitably accommodated in large cages, and, if necessary, with such small
and harmless birds as Java sparrows, munias, red-billed liothrix, &c.;
they would probably also do well in a lofty, spacious and well-ventilated
aviary; but, wherever they are placed, light, shade and coolness should
be the primary considerations ; new arrivals ‘should not be placed with
the older inmates of a cage or an aviary, and birds of the same or
different species which have hitherto lived separately should not be
mixed up, without giving them an opportunity of becoming accustomed
to one another’s presence. The goldfinch, linnet, and skylark are
capital cage-birds even in the climate of Bengal; the bottom of the
habitation of these birds, whether it be a small cage or a large aviary,
should have clean sand sprinkled over it.

Food.—-All these birds thrive on seeds of various kinds, and most of
them require insects and maggots as well; some are particularly fond of
oily seeds, such as the chaffinch, linnet, goldfinch; for these mustard
and hempseeds, in addition to various other kinds, should be provided;
the chaffinch is also fond of insects and maggots; some of them,
especially the skylark, have been observed to show great partialit for
moong grain (Phaseolus mango); the skylark and woodlark eat 'ts
and berries as well; they are all fond of vegetables, which should be
plentifully supplied.

TranSport.-—The best time to import these birds into the plains of
India is the cold weather.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The suddenness with which some of these British birds died, and
the season of the year at which these deaths mostly occurred, favour the
belief that, in the majority of cases at least, beat apoplewy was the cause
of death; unfortunately no autopsy was held.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or THESE BRITlsH BIRDS,

The linnet and the goldfinch appeared to be the most lively,
tractable and engaging of all these birds.

 

220 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

the forehead and sides marked with faint and narrow black lines; back
fulvouS-brown, and mottled; the rump and upper tail-covert bright
brown with longitudinal faint black lines; wings rufous-brown, washed
with greenish; the terminal portion of the quills dark brown; total
length of the bird is about 6 inches; the female is somewhat smaller, and
differs from the male in having no brown on the back and rump; the
prevailing colour being a subdued greenish grey, mottled with dark stripes
in the feathers.

Had—Common in Central Europe, from which it extends northward
to Lapland and eastward to Siberia, becoming scarcer in Southern
Europe.

(85) THE SKYLARK.

(ALAUDA ARVENSIS—(Linn.) )

Hindi and Bengali—Bharat or Blmmt Paks/u'.

Description.—-Sandy brown above with little deep brown markings
to the feathers; the crown of the head slightly crested; feathers of the
crest rounded; quills dark brown, edged narrowly with sandy brown;
cheeks buffy-white, with minute deep brown spots; throat and chest
brownish-white, marked with small brown specks; abdomen creamy white,
so also the under surface of the tail ; total length of the bird about 7 %
inches. The colour of its plumage varies much according to the season of
the year; besides, there are several well-known forms of the common
skylark, such as white, black and cream-coloured specimens.

Hab.—-In India the skylark is found in the Himalayas, where it
breeds at elevations from 8,000 to 10,000 feet, and its nests have also
been found in Kooloo and Kashmir; also found in Ceylon, North
China, Siberia, Palestine, Egypt, Northern Africa, British Islands and
Europe generally. The specimens exhibited in this garden were from
the British Islands.

(86) THE WOODLARK.

(ALAUDA ARBOREA—(Linn.) )

Description—Smaller than the preceding, and lighter in colour;
a yellowish-white broad stripe commencing from behind each nostril
passes behind to the nape, then passing downwards and forwards joins
the white of the upper breast, thus enclosing an irregular triangular
space at the side of the head including the eye; under parts yellowish
white; sides of chin, throat, and breast spotted with dark brown; flanks
striped; quills dark brown, edged with whitish; secondaries tipped and
edged with dull rufous; tail dark brown; the outer feather on each side
tipped and the outer web bordered white; the total length is about 5'5
inches.

Bah—Central and Southern Europe, extending eastward as far as
the Ural Mountains; is always present in England, though rarer in some
parts than in others. »

Observations.——These birds (Nos. 7 8 to 86) were, with the exception
of the canary finch, imported from England, and they differed somewhat

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 221

from the descriptions here given, most of them being paler; the scarlet
on the crown and neck of the goldfinch was subdued.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of these English birds, the greenfinch, linnet, and the mealy redpoll
lived the longest—about fourteen months: the others died within a few
months after their arrival.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housings—Most of them do well in small cages, but larger ones
should be preferred; in the hot moist climate of Lower Bengal
care should be taken to keep them in a cool and airy place, espe-
cially during the summer; the least neglect in this respect is likely
to be attended with fatal consequences; all of them must have ready
access to water, both for drinking and bathing; when there are
a number of them, either of one or of several species, they can be
suitably accommodated in large cages, and, if necessary, with such small
and harmless birds as Java sparrows, munias, red-billed liothrix, &c.;
they would probably also do well in a lofty, spacious and well-ventilated
aviary ; but, wherever they are placed, light, shade and coolness should
be the primary considerations ; new arrivals 'should not be placed with
the older inmates of a cage or an aviary, and birds of the same or
different species which have hitherto lived separately should not be
mixed up, without giving them an opportunity of becoming accustomed
to one another’s presence. The goldfinch, linnet, and skylark are
capital cage-birds even in the climate of Bengal; the bottom of the
habitation of these birds, whether it be a small cage or a large aviary,
should have clean sand sprinkled over it.

Food.—-All these birds thrive on seeds of various kinds, and most of
them require insects and maggots as well; some are particularly fond of
oily seeds, such as the chaflinch, linnet, goldfinch; for these mustard
and hempseeds, in addition to various other kinds, should be provided;
the chaffinch is also fond of insects and maggots; some of them,
especially the skylark, have been observed to show great partiality for
moong grain (Pkaseolus mango); the skylark and woodlark eat fruits
and berries as well; they are all fond of vegetables, which should be
plentifully supplied.

Transport.—-The best time to import these birds into the plains of
India is the cold weather.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The suddenness with which some of these British birds died, and
the season of the year at which these deaths mostly occurred, favour the
belief that, in the majority of cases at least, heat apoplewg/ was the cause
of death; unfortunately no autopsy was held.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THESE BRITISH Bums,

The linnet and the goldfinch appeared to be the most lively,
tractable and engaging of all these birds.

 

 

 

 

222 A HAND-BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALs

(87) THE BENGAL BUSHLARK.

MIRAFRA ASSAMICA—McClell.)
Hindi—Aggie ; B/u'rm'.

Description.—-The prevailing colour of the upper plumage ashy-
brown, in some specimens and according to the locality, with a tinge of
olive; throat whitish; breast and abdomen brownish-white and spotted ;
total length about 5% inches.

Hab.——Throughout Lower and Eastern Bengal, in the better-
watered and wooded tracts of the Central Provinces and Chota Nagpore,
in Assam and Cachar, and in the Dhoons and Terais which lie at the
feet of the Himalayas, and the immediately adjacent districts of Behar,
Oudh, and the North-Western Provinces. (Emma)

(88) THE SINGING BUSHLARK.

(MIRAFRA CAN TILLAN S—Jerdon.)
.Hindi-—A.gghm.

Description. «~It closely resembles the preceding species, but has
more white about the throat and below the ear—coverts; underparts pale
rufescent with indistinct small breast spots; total length about 5% inches.

Helix-The singing bushlark is found throughout India, common
in some parts, rarer in others, not so common in Lower Bengal as in
most parts of Behar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens of both the bushlarks have often been included in the
collection of the garden, but no record has been kept of the length of
their life in captivity.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—In this garden they are allowed to remain in the large
aviary, where they have more opportunity of hiding themselves under
straw or amongst plants than in other places; as cage—birds they do well
and are generally treated as such by the birdofanciers in Bengal.

Food.—-In captivity both these larks thrive well on satoo, insects
and maggots; they also eat fruits.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE SINGING AND BENGAL
BUSHLABKS.

Both of them are uninteresting birds as specimens for exhibition in
an aviary, as they can be seldom seen ; they move swiftly on the ground
and are always hiding; both of them sing well, especially the singing
lark.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 223

(89) THE SONG THRUSH.

(MERULA MUSICAu—Linn.)

Description—Dark olive-brown above, including the wing-coverts,
the median and greater coverts tipped bright-buff; the head slightly
washed with a yellowish hue ; sides of the head and neck spotted and
striped ; under surface of the body whitish, the throat and upper breast
being buff and Spotted; total length about 8 inches ; the bird is subject
to great variation.

Hab.-—Found everywhere in England and Scotland and through-
out Europe, Northern Africa and Arabia.

(90) THE BLACK-BIRD.

(MERULA MERULA—(Linn.))

Descriptions—Adult male, silky black; the wings somewhat paler;
bill orange ; eyelid orange ; total length about 10 inches. The birds
exhibited in this garden were much paler.

Hair—With the exception of the extreme north it is found almost
all over Europe, especially in the South, North—Eastern Africa, extending
as far east as Persia.

(91) THE INDIAN PITTA, OR YELLOW-BREASTED
GROUND THRUSH.

(PITTA BRACHYURA-(Linn.))

O

Hindi—-Nawrang. Bengali—-Slmmclza.

Descrzptz'nn.—-Head fulvous or fulvous-brown, with olive tinge;
a black stripe from the base of the bill to the back of the neck, meeting
another black band which passes through the cars; a faint white super-
ciliary line extending to the nape; the upper plumage dull bluish-
green ; quills black with white tips, and white bars to some of the pri-
maries; a bluish patch on the shoulder; tail black, tipped with dull
blue ; chin, throat, and sides of the neck, White; the chest and the flanks
fulvescent; the middle of the lower part of the abdomen, vent, and
the under tail-coverts scarlet; bill black; legs pinkish-yellow. In the
specimens exhibited in this garden the scarlet of the abdomen was
very subdued.

Hab.-Found throughout the whole of India, common in certain
tracts and scarcer in others; nowhere, however, very abundant; scarce
in the delta of Bengal, where they are chiefly immigrants. Common
in the Central Provinces and Southern India. The pitta is also found
in Ceylon. ‘

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which an Indian pitta has lived in the
garden has been about four years.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With respect to housing and feeding it may be treated like a
geocichla (No. 62).

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF THE INDIAN PITTA.

Like the geocichla, a pitta is a shy and solitary bird, scarcely
associating with others, and seldom amusing itself in any way. In this
respect it is perhaps less interesting than a geocichla; it Is generally

very silent.

(92) THE GREEN-BREASTED PITTA.

(PITTA CUCULLATA—Hartlaub.)

Description.-—A green bird, with the chin, throat, sides of the head
and the neck all round black; the crown of the head dark rufous-brown ;
the upper tail-coverts and part of the wings verdigris-blue; primaries
black, with a conspicuous white patch; the vent and under tall-coverts
scarlet ; length about 7 inches.

Hab.—-—Found in Nepal, Sikhim, Assam, Burmah and the Malayan

peninsula.
A specimen lived for about two months only.

(93) THE GOLD-BAOKED WOODPECKER.

(BRACHYPTERN US AURANTIUS~(L£mz.) )

In Lower Bengal all the birds of this group are known as kdt-tokrd,
woodpeckers. The gold-backed woodpecker is so well-known in Bengal
that no description is needed.

Huh—Found almost throughout the whole of India, including the
lower ranges of the Himalayas; the northern parts of Ceylon, British
Burmah, the Indo—Burmese countries and the Malayan peninsula.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About six to seven months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—A large aviary is by far the best accommodation for a
woodpecker; here it may have some chance of indulging in its favourite
‘ habit of tapping, if not a living tree, at least a dead one, to procure its
food; but, howsoever suitable the accommodation may be, a woodpecker
is always an intractable bird in captivity. In selecting stock, younger
birds should be perferred, as they can be taught to feed on prepared food
with comparative ease; as long as they are not so trained, they should,
of course, be kept separately.

Food.—-—In captivity young birds may be trained to feed on satoo,
minced meat and soft fruits, but insects and maggots are indispensable;
satoo should be soft and semi-liquid, and may be prepared with eggs,
raw or half-boiled, and finely minced meat.

IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 225

Breeding.—-Woodpeckers have never bred in ca tivit b

. . . . ut some-
times, though rarely, Wlld birds build and lay within the glii'den. The
mango and kadam appear to be their favourite trees for building, but
on one occasion a pair were found to lay in a hole in the trunk of a

cocoanut palm; the were of course -
by some barbets. y usurpers, the 11019 hang been made

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABIT or THE WOODPECKER.

The woodpecker being a climbin bird, as soon as one is l '
an av1ary, 1t ascends by the wire nettiig of the cage, but not £3321 :2
adept 1n movmg down as in climbing up, it remains adhering to the
we almost at the very top of the cage, until helped down by a kee er.
Tamer blrds soon take to tapping the dead trees inside an aviary. t is
Interesting to observe a woodpecker feeding; it licks up its food with its

igrllrgezermiform tongue, the tip of which is furnished with tiny recurved

(94) THE WRYNECK.
(IYN X TORQUILLA—(Limz.) )
The wryneck is found in most parts of India; more common in

Western than in Lower Bengal.

The only specimen ever obtained for the rden did 11 '
l O V t
more than a. week ; 1t Isa difficult bird to keep inggaptivity, ovging'utdlivt:
pecuhar habit of procurrng food while on the wing.

(95) THE GREAT INDIAN BARBET.

(MEGALZEMA MARSHALLORUM—Swink.)

Description.—~The whole head includin th ‘
, g e na e and
blue ; upper part of.t e back coppery brown; the lowgr back 11:23:]: 211::
upper tail-coverts light green, which in a very healthy specimen is
glossy; parts of the wmg have yellowish patches; tail green with faint
Bluéshtcfimge; (breast. brown; abdomen pale yellow, with brown streaks
13 idbhescls , un er tail-coverts crimson, blll yellow; total length about
Hab.—-Throughout the Himalayas extendin
. . . , g through Assam to
thdngikhlirie blrds are generally brought down to Calcutta from Bhutan
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living in the garden for the last five years.

(96) THE BLUE-FACED BARBET.
(CYAN OPS ASI ATICA—(Zath.) )
Bengali—Basanta-baz‘rz‘, in some parts of Bengal.

. This bird is readily distinguished from other barbets b '1:
math the black band across; its blue face and throat, andy this riiigiii

I’

 

226 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

crimson spots on either side of the base of the foreneck; the sexes are
almost alike, the female being somewhat smaller than the male.

‘ Hab.——-—“ Indo-Burman sub-region, having been found to the westward
as far as the valley of the J umna, and to the eastward extending to
Arracan.” Hume. Very common in Calcutta and its neighbourhood, as
well as in other parts of Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

' Specimens are always living in the garden, but there is no record
of the history of any single individual.

(97) THE LINEATED BARBET.

(CYANOPS LINEATA-(Vieill.))

Bengali—Coral, amongst the bird-catchers of Bengal.

Descfl'ptz‘on.—~Prevailing colour green, paler on the Hanks and abdo—
men; vent and lower tail-coverts yollowish; all about the head and upper
breast whitish, the feathers of the crown and nape being medially streak-
ed White; those of the sides of the neck, breast, and abdomen also mar-
gined whitish brown; bill orange brown, total length about 10% inches.

Hab.——The lineated barbet inhabits the whole extent of the Sub-
Himalayan region from the Sutlej Valley to the Brahmaputra, ascending
the Himalayas up to about 3,000 feet ; it has been recorded from Sylhet,
Pegu, and Tenasserim.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

These birds have been found to thrive well in captivity in Lower
Bengal, so that one of those now living in the collection has been there
for more than seven years.

(98) THE CRIMSON-BREASTED BARBET.

(XANTHOLEMA HZEMACEPHALA—(MulL) )

Bengali-Clzota Bascmta baire.

The “ Copper-smith ” bird of Europeans in India. .

Like the blue-faced barbet, this bird is also well known In Lower
Bengal ; its total length is about 623 inches; its distinctive characteristic
is the crimson colour of its frontal space and the pectoral gorget.

Hab.——Found throughout the plains of India, Burmah, Malayana,
Ceylon, &c.; common in Calcutta and the neighbourhood.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The same remark which has been made with respect to the blue-
faced barbet applies to this also. '

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 227

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—All of them have been found to do well in a large
aviary; the great Indian barbet takes no little time to become thoroughly
acclimatised in the plains; for the first few months it looks shabby and
even sickly, so that it is undesirable to introduce it on arrival straight
into a place where it must hold its own with other birds.

Food.——Consists of fruits, seeds, buds and insects ; in captivity they
thrive excellently on satoo, plantains and other fruits and minced meat.

Breeding.——None of them have ever bred in captivity, but both the
blue—faced and the crimson-breasted barbets often breed in a wild state
within the garden, generally selecting a decayed branch of a tree, in
which they find it easy to make holes. On one occasion a number of them
bred in a cocoanut-palm grove: the breeding season lasts from March to
June.

Transport—If it can be helped, the great Indian barbet should
not be brought down to the plains during the summer or even in the
rains; early in winter is the proper time to bring it down from the hills.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Nothing particular is known about their ailments; they often die
from causes which are common to most other birds. ’

OBSERVATION ON THE HABITS OF BARBETs.

Barbets generally are arboreal in habits, but of the several species
exhibited in this garden, the great Indian barbet appears to be the mod:
fond of keeping to the topmost perch of the aviary, rarely, if ever,
descending to the ground, or even to the lower perches; it is also an
inactive bird, so that it may not be unfrequently seen sitting motionless
in one place for hours together ; its cry is loud and monotonous, but very
characteristic. Once begun, it goes on calling for an hour or more; it is
rather solitary in habits, and does not associate with other birds, either of
the same or other species; the most active members of this group of
birds are the crimson-breasted barbets; compared with their size, they
have an extraordinarily loud note; the blue-faced barbets may sometimes
be seen tapping hard at the dead trunk of a tree inside an aviary; none
of the barbets have ever been noticed to climb like the woodpecker,

(99) THE EUROPEAN HOOPOE.

(U PUPA EPOPS-Linn.)

Hindi and Bengali—Hud—lmd.

The characteristic feature of this bird is its large ornamental crest.
As, however, the bird is well known, no description is necessary.

Hab.—-—Found in the Himalayas and various other parts of India,
including Bengal ; also in Assam, Burmah, and most other parts of
Asia, Europe and North Africa.

During the rains and winter hoopoes may sometimes be seen within
the garden in a Wild state, and specimens have now and then been cap-
tured, and attempts made to tame them, but hitherto without success.

P2

 

 

 

 

228 A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(100) THE INDIAN BLUE-ROCK PIGEON.

(COLUMBA IN TERMEDIA—Striclcl.)

Hindi—Jfabutar. Bengali—GoZa—Paime
Very common and abundant throughout India.
, Hath—India, including the Himalayas, Assam, Burmah and
Ceylon; more common in Open countries and in and near villages and
towns than in forest tracts.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.

Although there is no record of individual specimens, the blue-rock
pigeons have been known to live long in this garden.

(101) THE WHITE-BELLIED PIGEON.

(COLUMBA LEUCONOTA—Vig.)

Dwerz‘ptz’om—Head and face dull or ashy black; back of neck
white; back light brownish grey; wings also the same colour; rump
white; the primaries tipped. with dull black; the secondaries tipped
dusky; tertiaries barred with dusky bands and tipped grey; belly
white ; bill black ; irides yellow; legs red; total length about 14 inches.

Hab.——North-West Himalayas. A specimen said to be from
Sikhim has lately been obtained.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A little over three years. Although inhabitants of very high
altitudes, the specimens exhibited did not appear to suffer much during

the hot weather.

(102) THE DARJEELING WOOD-PIGEON.

(PALUMBUS PULCHRICOLLIS—Hodgs.)

Description—Total length about 14 inches; general colour dusky
grey; light ashy about the head and cheeks ; sides of the neck glossed
green and purple; its distinctive characteristlc consIsts of a patch of
feathers on the neck, black at the base, isabelline at the edges, and
white at the tips; throat whitish; breast green and purple; bill yellow
at the tip ; irides yellow ; legs dull red. .

Hab.——Nepal, Sikhim, and South-Eastern Himalayas generally.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAP’l‘IVITY.

A specimen obtained in 1880 lived for a few months only.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 229

(103) THE SPOTTED DOVE.
(TURTUR SURATENSIS—(Gmel.))

Hindi—Chitla. Bengali—Ghugu.

. Numbers of this extremely common dove live within the garden
in a semi-domesticated state.
Huh—Found all over India, up to about 7,000 feet in the Hima-

layas; also common in Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record of individual specimens has been kept; it is known
tclrbear captIVIty extremely well; some of those caged in 1878 are still
a Ive.

(104) THE RED TURTLE DOVE.
(TURTUR HUMILIS—(Temm.))

(105) THE COMMON RING DOVE.

(TURTUR RISORIUS—(Linn) )

Both the red turtle and the common ring doves look very much
alike at first sight. They differ, however, in general colour (which is
vinous or brick-red in the fOrmer, and uniform light grey-brown in the
latter), the extent of the collar, the comparative lengths of the tail and
some other particulars; the sexes in the red turtle dove also differ.

Bah-Both the species are found throughout India and Ceylon.
None of them are common in Bengal. The red turtle-dove extends
through Assam and Burmah to the Philippine Islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Like the common spotted dove, these also bear captivity well.

(106) THE MALAY SPOTTED DOVE.

(TU’RTUR TIGRINUS~(Temm.))

Description—Total length about 12 inches ; general colour of the
plumage above brown; feathers blackish along the shaft and tipped
lighter brown; forehead and cheeks grey; a dark spot in front of the
eye; crown, nape and lower plumage vinaceous; hind neck and sides
of the neck black, each feather with two white spots at the tip; bill
bluish-black; irides reddish; legs deep red.

 

 

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. ... fiuwuvaMWAm-WFWWWw.WWmmmun(MMgwg;rum—u

{Wflw—‘WErLVOX—W" -

 

230 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENr or ANIMALS

Hab.-—Burmese countries generally, Cochin China, the Malay
peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, and even the distant islands of
Celebes and Amboyna.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVI'IY.
No record. '

(107) THE CHINESE TURTLE DOVE.

(TURTUR CHINENSIS—(Scop.))

Description.—-—Slightly larger than the former, and differing from
it in having no dark shaft streaks on the upper plumage. This species
appears to vary somewhat, some being much paler than others.

Hab.—-—China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

As hardy as the other turtle doves mentioned above.

(108) THE RUFOUS TURTLE DOVE.

(TUBTUR MEENA~(SyIces-.) )

Bengalinkam ghugu.

Description—The prevailing colour of the bird is vinaceous brown
the forehead and crown being washed with ashy; the chin and throat
whitish ;_a black patch on either side of the neck, each feather being
tipped. W1th grey; the vinaceous brown colour is deepest on the breast
becoming much paler lower down and almost albescent on the abdomen 3
prlmarles edged with whitish; total length about 12 inches. Those
from Burmah appear to be somewhat larger than the Northern Indian
and tige Hirrfiplayarlil specimens.

' ab.—-— urma , the hill tracts of Eastern Ben a1
Himalayas, Central India and Bombay. g ’ the foot Of the

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About eight, years.

(109) THE BAR-TAILED CUCKOO DOVE.

(MACROPYGIA LEPTOGR-AMMICA—(TemmJ )

Description.——'l‘he upper plumage dusky black, barred with rufous ;
breast, v1nous brown or ashy with a vinous tinge; each feather barred
With subdued metallic green; forehead and chin buff; crown of the
head, nape, and sides of the head vinaceous, with a gloss of metallic
green ; the central tail feathers black, barred with rufous, the next two
pairs barred With indistinct black and rufous at the end; the three

 

 

: l

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LoWER BENGAL. 231

outer pairs ashy, with a black subterminal band; vent and undertail-
coverts buff. In the female the bars are more developed and the colours
less conspicuous; the breast and abdomen barred with brovvn; total
length about 15 inches; the legs brownish red; bill horny-brown.

Hab.—-South-East Himalayas, extending through Nepal and Bhu-
tan to the Khasia hills; Burmah and through Malay peninsula to Java.

The single specimen obtained for the garden did not survive more
than a month.

(110) THE CRESTED PIGEON.

(OCYPHAPS LOPHOTES—(Te-mm.))

Description.—— Slightly larger than the common spotted dove
(No. 103); head, face, throat, breast and abdomen delicate ashy grey;
the occipital crest, which is long, pointed and directed backward, black,
the length of the plumes diminishing towards the back; back of the
neck, back and sides brown, washed with olive; wings variegated; tail
feathers tipped with White.

Hab.——Australia. It affects marshy tracts in preference to others.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN carrrvrrr.

A pair have been living since 1880.

(111) THE EMERALD DOVE.

(CHALCOPHAPS INDICA-(Linn.))
Bengali—Ram glzugu.

It is popularly known as the bronze-winged een (love, and in the
Calcutta bird market it is not unfrequently called t e coral—beaked dove.

Hab.——All over India, Ceylon, the Andamans, Burmah, Southern
China, Cochin China, Siam, the Malayan peninsula, and abost all the
islands of the Malay Archipelago.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Like most other animals, the mortality is great amongst the new
arrivals, but those that once become reconciled to confinement live long
and well. Among the large number now exhibited, some have been
living since 1880 or 1881.

(112) THE BRONZE-WINGED PIGEON.

(PHAPS CHALCOPTERA—(Lath.))

Description—Forehead dirty buff ; a curvilinear line under the eye
and the chin yellowish white; crown . of the head. and oeciput dark
brown; sides of the neck grey; back of the head and all the upper
surface brown; wings brown with paler edges; a patch of coppery

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232 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

bronze on each wing covert; the central tail feathers brown, others
grey, with a band of black near the tip; breast very delicate hght

chocolate.
Hab.——Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair have been living since 1883.

(113) THE WONGA WONGA PIGEON.

(LEUCOSARCIA PICTA~(Lath.) )

Description.—-Total length about 16 inches; head and chin white;
the nape, back, rump, wings and tail, in fact the whole upper surface,
slaty grey; primaries brown; breast greyish black with a broad white
band across; the abdomen and flanks white, each feather of the latter
marked With a triangular black spot; irides dark brown, surrounded by
a narrow pink red line.

Huh—New South Wales.

Specimens living since December 1887.

(114) THE BLOOD-BREASTED PIGEON.

(PHLOGZENAS CRUENTATA—(Latk) )

Description—Total length about 13 inches; the whole upper part
slaty grey with delicate purple reflexions; throat and breast White;
the rest of the under surface of a cinnamon colour ; the most charac-
Eeristic feature of the bird is a blood-red patch at the centre of the

mast

Hab.-—-The Philippine Islands.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Though very delicate, they seem to do remarkably well after they

' have once recovered from the effects of a long voyage. One of the

birds now living has been in the garden since 1880.

(115) THE PEACEFUL DOVE.

GEOPELIA TRAN QUILLAwGould.)

Description—Total length about 9 inches ; the prevailing colour
of the bird ashy grey; occiput, back and wings ashy brown; abdomen
and flanks vinous; chest, sides and back of the neck crossed by
numerous very narrow bands of black; the outer tail feathers tipped
Wlth white ; irides ashy grey.

Hab.-——Australia; interior of the country northward from New
South Wales.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Living since 1884.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 233

(116) THE HACKLED GROUND PIGEON.

(CALZEN AS N ICOBARICA—(I/imz.) )

Description.——Head and neck slaty grey or greyish black ; the tail
and the tail-coverts white; the rest of the plumage, with minor excep-
tions, green with metallic reflexions; the distinguishing characteristic
of this species is its thick bunch of hackles, which from the base of the
occiput and the back of the neck flow down on to the body ; those from
the occiput are more or less hairlike; total length about 15% to 16
inches.

- Bah—Nicobar Islands principally, but also found in the Andaman
group. Some authorities say that it is found in Mergui and the
Malay peninsula, but others deny this.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which one has as yet lived in the
garden has been over nine years.

(117) THE COMMON CROWNED PIGEON.

(GOURA CORONATA—(Limz.) )

Description.——Of large size and massive and rounded form; pre-
vailing colour of the plumage pale blue ; wing-coverts maroon-lilac
with coppery-bronze reflexidns, with a white band across ; a band of the
same colour and refiexions stretches across the back also; tail tipped
with bluish white ; the most characteristic feature of the species is its
large, prominent and beautiful crest, which, commencing from the
middle of the forehead, is continued down in a line to the middle of
the occiput ; it consists of about fourteen plumes, and viewed from the
sides looks like the upstretched train of a peacock without the ocelli;
irides crimson ; the scutillee of the starsus very prominent.

Huh—New Guinea. ’

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

They appear to bear captivity extremely well, as most of those
now exhibited have been living since 1879.

(118) THE VICTORIA CROWNED PIGEON.

(GOURA VICTORIE—Fraser.)

Description.——In size, form, bulk and general colour the same as
the preceding species. It differs from the latter in the following
respects-breast lilac-brown with coppery reflexions; band on the

 

234 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

wing-coverts faint blue instead of white ; no maroon-coloured band on
the back ; crest adorned with white eyelets.
Bah—New Guinea and adjacent islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens living since 1880.

(119) THE IMPERIAL GREEN PIGEON.
(CARPOPHAGA JENEA—(Lmn.))

Description.-—Head, neck, chest and rest of the under plumage
grey; base of the bill and chin white or whitish ; back and rest of the
upper plumage glossy green with coppery reflexions; primaries and
secondaries greenish brown; iris red; bill grey; total length about
17 inches.

Hab.——Excepting the north-west, it is found in most other parts
of India, extending through Burmah, the Indo-Burmese countries,
and the Malay peninsula to Sumatra, Java, Borneo and the Philip-

pines. In Bengal they are said to occur about Midnapore, but there
is no authentic record of this.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About three years.

(120) THE PIED IMPERIAL PIGEON.

(CARPOPHAGA BICOLOR—(ScopJ)

Description-Total length about 15% to 16 inches; general colour
of the plumage white ; primaries, secondaries and the terminal portion
of the tail black ; irides dark brown; legs and feet pale smelt blue. In
fully adult and healthy specimens the nape and upper back is washed
with delicate and faint lilac buff.

Hab.—-Very widely distributed, being found in the Andamans,
the Nicobars, the Malay peninsula, and all the islands of the Archipe-
lago. ° .

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Either owing to unsuitable habitation or some other cause, this
Species has not hitherto thriven well, so that no specimen has yet lived
longer than three years. A few have been living for the last three years
and six months, and as they look bright and happy, and apparently in
first-rate health, and as, moreover, the habitation is a good one, it
may be expected that they will live longer.

(121) THE BRONZED IMPERIAL PIGEON.
(CARPOPHAGA. PERSPICILLATA—Temm.)

Descm'ptz’on.—~Forehead, crown, and sides ot the head very delicate
vinous ashy ; chin white; nape, sides of the neck and upper breast ashy;

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 235

lower breast and abdomen almost the same colour as the crown .and
the forehead; back and wings greenish, feathers being margmed
brown with bronze reflexions; quills ashy black; ta11 also ashy black;
under tail coverts cinereous brown; bill plumbeous white; II'IS brown;
legs red; total length about 17 inches. The colour .of the b111, tall
feathers, and the amount of green with bronze refleXIons, vary much
in different individuals.
Hem—Java, Borneo and Sumatra.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Over three years.

(122) THE SUPERB FRUIT PIGEON.

(PTILOPUS SUPERBUS—Temm.)

Description—Total length about 9 inches; head purple, chin and
throat delicate ashy white ; nape and sides of the neck orange, washed
with rufous; breast ashy-grey with light purple tmge; a band of bluIsh-
black stretches across the lower breast; abdomen white; upper parts,
flanks, and thighs green; the flanks above the tlnghs crossed. by. a
white band; shoulders and parts adjacent to It purple; prImaries
brownish-black; secondaries green edged with yellow; the outer tail
feathers with a broad white band at the tip; bill .ohve. green, With
yellow tip; irides yellow; feet pink. The female 1s uniformly green
above; throat, grayish-white; breast, greylsh green.

Hub.-—Australia, Ternate, Amboyna. . _

Other fruit-pigeons ascribed to this genus, but of whichthe specific
identity has remained undetermined owing to their .havmg arrived
young or out of condition, have now and then been ethbIted; none of
them, however, have ever done well.

(123) THE THICK-BILLED GREEN PIGEON.
(TRERON NEPALENSIS- (Hodgs.) )

Description.——Forehead and crown ashy; the prevailing colour of
the rest of the plumage green of different shades and intensity; back,
scapulars, and the greater part of the lesser wmg coverts maroon;
median wing coverts broadly edged w1th yellow, the outermost ones
being tinged with blackish; greater coverts blackish, edged with yellow;
primaries and their coverts black; the primary coverts narrowly edged
with whitish ; secondaries black, edged with yellow on the outer web,
the outer tail feathers ashy, with a bar of black across. In the female
there is no maroon on the back and scapulars; bill red at the base,
yellow on culmen, rest green; legs bright red; iris blue. Total length
about 9% to 10 inches.

Hab.-«South—East Himalayas ; the Indo-Bnrmese country ; the
Malay peninsula; Sumatra.

 

 

236 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

There is no record of individual specimens, but the species has not

yet done well in this garden.

(124) THE BENGAL GREEN PIGEON.
(CROCOPUS PHCENICOPTERUS—(Latk.))

(125) THE SOUTHERN GREEN PIGEON.
(CROCOPUS CHLORIGASTER—(Blytk.))
Hindi and Bengali——Harial.

The harials are well-known birds in Lower Bengal. A. Bengal

green pigeon from Upper India differs from a southern green pigeon
much more than one from Lower or Western Bengal. The harials from

Lower Bengal are very deficient in the yellow tinge, which is generally
well marked in Upper Indian specimens.

Hab.-—The Bengal green pigeon is found all over Bengal and
Upper India, extending eastward to Assam, Sylhet, Tipperah, &c., and
as far south as the N erbudda river. The southern green pigeon is
found throughout the greater part of the peninsula of India, and

Ceylon; not uncommon about Midnapore in Lower Bengal.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Neither of the above species of green pigeons appears to bear
captivity well. A few specimens have now and then been found to do
well, but as a rule they do not live long in confinement.

(126) THE ORANGE-BREASTED GREEN PIGEON.
(OSMOTRERON BICINCTA—(Jerdon.) )

Resembles a harial very closely, but smaller; legs red; has an
orange buff patch on the breast.

Balm-The greater part of peninsular India, Ceylon, Assam,
Burmah, &c. It does not appear to be common in Lower Bengal.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record of individual specimens has been kept.

(127) THE KOKLA GREEN PIGEON._

(SPHENOOERCUS SPHENURUS-(Vig.))
Hindi-Kolcla.

Description.—-In general appearance it resembles a harial, but
differs from it in having a ruddy tinge on the head and breast, and the
scapulars and mantle maroon, and legs red. The female and young

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 237

birds have no ruddy tinge on the breast, but they can be readily
distinguished from the green pigeons by the colour of the legs.
Hab.-—Found throughout the Himalayas, from 4,000, to 8,000
feet, extending to the hill ranges of Assam and Sylhet. They descend
to the plains in winter, returning to the hills in summer. .

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Though denizens of a cold climate, they bear .captivity in the
plains of Bengal much better than the Bengal green pigeons (No. 124),
which live in a wild state in the neighbourhood of the garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——A columbarium or pigeonry with separate divisions for
the accommodation of different groups of pigeons 18.110 doubt the most
desirable arrangement, and, when such a luxury is poss1b1e, a house
of the following style (though by no means perfect) Will be found
to answer all practical purposes in this climate. A. covered shed some
50 feet long, and about 12 feet broad, raised 3 feet above the level of
the ground, should be divided into three or four compartments accord-
ing to requirements. The back and sides of the shed should be solid
brick wall, some 12 feet high from the ground,_ the .front may .be
built of planks or stout wire-netting, with intervening pillars. on which
the sloping roof should rest; corresponding to each div1s10n of the
covered shed, there should be open air flights enclosed all round With
one-inch mesh wire-netting. Unless, however, the open air enclosure
is built on a brick-on-edge platform, which need not be more than s1x
inches above the ground level, the rate will be very troublesome. But,
on the other hand, half the value and utility of .such a. place will
be lost owing to the hard brick floor, which, besides being unsuit-
able for its hardness alone, will be very hot during. the mid-day heat
of the summer, and very cold in the winter mornings. As a com-
promise, however, between these two, about three or four 111011.98. of
earth should be Spread over half of it and doob grass laid, the remaining
half being covered with gravel or sand. During the summer the Wire
roof of the outside portion should be covered With a thin thatch of
00100 grass; if the front of the covered portion be made of wire-netting,
it should be protected with shutters during the cold Winter nights. The
house must, of course, be fitted up with the necessary perches, boxes,
and nesting places, and other requisites of a bird-house. .Various other
styles may be adopted, but it is unnecessary to mention them. 1n
this garden the pigeons are mostly accommodated in large av1aries
by themselves or with other birds, and they generally thrive. The
place for the Crown pigeons should be lofty and spacious, and the floor
well sanded ; being large and beautiful birds, they can never be seen to
advantage unless the cage is proportionately large; if poss1ble, they
should have a retiring box so placed as to be perfectly screened from
visitors. The Wonga Wonga pigeons are also fond of retirement, and
appear to do well when placed by themselves; they should also have their
retiring box in some sheltered corner and as high as pOSSIble. The
blood-breasted pigeons are very delicate, but when they once become

 

238 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

reconciled to the new mode of life incidental to captivity, they live
happily with other birds; here some of them hold their own with the
bhimraj and chakur partridges--—by no means perfectly harmless birds.
The fruit pigeons, especially of the genus Pti10pus, are generally very
delicate birds; they should be well protected from draughts and cold to
which they are extremely susceptible. A large moveable cage will,
perhaps, better accommodate the requirements of the latter, as it will
admit of being put out in the sun, which they much require, especially
of a cold wintry morning. A good bath should be provided for all.

Food—The following is a list of the principal grains used for
feeding pigeons :«Indian-corn, barley, wheat, moong, peas, hemp-seed,
mustard-seed. All pigeons do not care for barley, though it is a good
and nourishing food; Indian-corn mixed with other grains, such as
wheat, barley and hemp-seed, makes capital food for the larger pigeons ;
the blood-breasted and the Australian crested pigeons appear to be
particularly fond of moong, but they also eat other grains and fruits.
In captivity most of the pigeons learn to eat bread, biscuits, boiled
rice, &c. The soft-billed pigeons are fond of satoo, which may be
especially prepared for them with plantains; for the fruit-eating kind the
plantain is no doubt very good, and is always available, but it should
be given sparingly during the rains and winter; some pigeons, such
as the Wonga Wonga, are fond of hard stones of fruits, but in captivity,
where they are not required to make any exertion to procure sustenance,
over-indulgence in such food induces diarrhoea; figs and berries are
the most suitable kind of food for the various fruit-eating species.
During the season when the fruits of the peepul (Eons rcléqiosa)
and bur (Ficus bengalensis) ripen, no opportunity should be lost of
collecting them from the neighbouring trees and giving them to the
birds. Green food, such as cabbage leaves, spinage, &c., should be
frequently supplied.

Transport—For the more delicate and shy pigeons the most suit-
able travelling cage is that used for the transport of pheasants (p. 335),
except that no padding is required for the top inside, as pigeons are
not much given to jumping upward like pheasants.

Breeding.——~Pigeons vary much in disposition: some are extremely
shy breeders, but others, like the Indian blue-rock pigeon, will breed
anywhere. When two birds show signs of pairing, it is better to
place them together in a separate cage away from the rest; this opera-
tion is, however, often neglected for want of suitable accommodation.
In former years the crown pigeons were sometimes noticed making
attempts at the construction of a nest; they carried up hay, bits of
sticks and other materials to a large box with an open top, fixed against
the wall of the aviary some fifteen feet above the floor, and, from their
assiduous attention to this domestic arrangement it was hoped that
they would breed, but the result was disappointing. They were much
worried by the other birds pulling out the materials with which they
attempted to build their nests. One of the hens of the common crown
pigeon twice laid on the floor, but on each occasion, the egg being
placed in a nest, the pair concerned declined to take any notice of it.
_Of late they have given up all attempts at building, and even the
isolation of a pair has failed to induce the hen to lay. The Nicobar

1N CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. - 239

pigeons have twice bred in the garden; on each occasion the hen laid a
single egg in a loosely constructed nest of hay and cocoanut fibres;
during the period of incubation both the male and female sat by turns.
The young birds do not get their hackles until the second year, and
their general colour is a dull blackish brown with faint copper-bronze
reflexions. The emerald doves have also bred; the hen of a pair of
these, living in one of the large side cages in an aviary, took to laying
in the seed pan, instead of taking the trouble of building a nest, and
there hatched out and reared its young.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Pigeons, like many other birds, suffer from cold, catarrlz, diarrhoea,
vertigo, rheumatism, &c.; there is no need to add to what has already
been said on these matters. They have also been known to die of other
diseases of which the nature remains yet undetermined. A. kind of
epidemic once broke out in an aviary, and although some other birds
also died, it created special havoc among the koklas and green pigeons ;
sometimes half a dozen birds were found dead of a morning ; they
were mostly strong and well-fed creatures, and careful autopsy failed to
detect anything wrong internally. It was singular, however, that
every one of them seemed to have a tiny bare patch about their necks,
as if the feathers had been forcibly plucked, causing slight congestion
of the skin. In an epidemic of this kind, from whatever cause arising,
it is advisable to reduce the number of birds in the aviary, as over-
crowding is one of the possible causes of such an outbreak, and it also
serves the purpose of isolating the healthy and unaffected birds. All
the old sand, gravel, earth and grass should be removed, and the house
thoroughly washed, scraped and, where practicable, gently fumigated;
old drinking vessels had also better be changed and new substituted.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or PIGEONS.

As a rule pigeons and doves are harmless timid birds, of somewhat
regular and methodical habits; some are extremely shy and retiring,
while others, though not bold and obtrusive, are nevertheless sociable.
OWing to their large size, pleasing colour, and beautiful crest,
crown pigeons form a very important feature of an aviary; they
may be generally seen pacing the cage up and down or.round the
tank, wagging their tails, and sometimes uttering at intervals a deep
and a somewhat prolonged booming noise ; they have another kind of
note- a hoarse and hissing grunt, which may be heard while they are
fighting; their manner of fighting is also peculiar; they face each other,
then suddenly jumping upward and forward peek at the head or face
of the adversary. The flight of the crown pigeons is heavy and accom-
panied by aloud whirring noise like that of pheasants; they have
never been found to take a bath by immersion, but one may sometimes
be noticed sitting under the jet of a playing fountain and enjoying a
bath by exposing first one wing and then the other. The Singular
attitude which a crested pigeon assumes in order to display its plumage
while pursuing a female has something ludicrous in it; it suddenly
crouches forward on its breast, raises its expanded tail, and slowly

 

.,I_rx.,._,.. .,.AM,-I..~.__...._.:. . . . <

240 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

' t' 11 follows the object of its pursuit. Some of the fruit
Sigieonnzlfeesellilieycold, and like nothing better than a snug warm corner ;
several of them may be seen of a windy wmter mornlng sitting In
a row with half their bodies inside the nests.

(128) THE INDIAN CUCKOO.

(CUCULUS MICROPTERUS~GouldJ
Bengali—Bou-katha-kau.

' B 11 a1. .
gjdl-Elglbguign i: gBengal and Northern India, the Himalayas,

and Central India; it extends through Assam and Burmah to the
Malay countries.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

' months. .
$Vlithltrlegggct to housing and feeding it may be treated like the

the next species.

(129) THE COMMON HAWK CUCKOO.
(HIEROCOCCYX VARIUS-(VahZJ)
Hindi and Bengali—Pepin.
The papia is a very well-known bird in Lower Bengal.

Bah-Found throughout the whole of India, and according to
some authorities also in Burmah and Malayana.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

This species has also been very short-lived. in the garden, owing
chiefly to the fact that generally adult speclmens are. received as
presentations, and they seldom become reconciled to captIVIty.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

‘ .-- hen ca tured oung it does well as a cage-bird; it
oughfziiueségf to lays placed) in a large aviary With other birds; In the
first place, because it is extremely shy and does not like to 11ve In the
open, and in the second, the smaller blrds are very apt to worry It,
mistaking it for a ski/cm, which 1t somewhat resembles.

Food.——Satoo, fruits, insects: for young birds satoo should be

made into a soft pulp.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Adult birds pine away and die; the younger birds sufi’er from
cold and rheumatism, the result generally of careless feeding and

exposure.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 241

HABITS or THE COMMON HAWK CUCKoo.

The common hawk cuckoo is a great favourite with the bird-
fanciers of Bengal, chiefly for its sonorous musical notes. A few
of these birds live in a wild state within the garden, but they are
seldom seen in the open, so that unless they may be calling (and they
only call during the breeding season) it is difficult to detect their
presence; they are wary and suspicious, and look very like a ski/cm
when darting down to secure some insect as food.

(130) THE RED-WINGED CRESTED CUCKOO.

(COCCYSTES COROMANDUS~(Linn.))

Description-Black above with a slight gloss of green; a white
band across the nape; wings deep rusty colour; under parts white;
bill black; legs plumbeous; total length about 14';- inches.

Hab.-—India, Ceylon, Burmah, and Malayana; nowhere abundant,
and rarely met with in Lower Bengal. A specimen was captured in the
neighbourhood of the garden, but it did not survive long.

(131) THE INDIAN COEL.

(EUDYNAMIS HON ORATA—(Linn.) )

Hindi—eKoel. Bengali-Kola].

Hab.-—India, Ceylon, Burmah, extending through the Malayan
peninsula to the Philippines. A few specimens may be found living
in the garden in a wild state throughout the year.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period during which a coal has lived in the garden
has been fourteen years, z'.e., from 1876 to 1889.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-Coels do as well in a large aviary as in a small cage;
they are frequently caged in Bengal for their melodious notes.
Food.—-Satoo, fruits and insects; they are particularly fond of
the fruits of the Mazda, piped and balm! (Mimusops elengi), and also
telakuc/aa (Momordica monadelpha), a kind of common creeper which
grows wild during the rains. They sometimes overfeed themselves,
and then disgorge the seeds of the fruits they have eaten.
Breeding.—~Coels do not breed in captivity; but in a wild state
they breed almost every season within the garden or in Its immediate
neighbourhood. It is well known that the females deposit their eggs
in the nest of common crows. ’
Nothing is known about their maladies.

 

 

 

242 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALs

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF A COEL.

It is shy and unobtrusive, but nevertheless more sociable than
the common hawk cuckoo; it is arboreal in habits, never being seen
on the ground except for a moment when it descends to carry away
its food It calls beautifully even in captivity, and during the breeding
season it may be heard to call at night also, especially if there is

9. 1110011.

(132) THE INDIAN COUOAL.

(CENTROCOCCYX RUFIPEN N IS—(I ll.) )

Hindi-Malachi. Bengali—Kaiser, from the noise it makes.

Description.—-Head, neck, lower part of the back, upper tail-
coverts, and all the underparts purplish black; upper part of the back
and wings deep rufous ; tail green-glossed; bill black ; iris crimson; legs
black; total length about 19 inches. They vary somewhat according
to age, sex and even locality.

Hab.-—-Found all over India, Burmah, and Malayana.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About seven years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-May be kept with a magpie and crew, but certainly
not with smaller birds.

Food.—-—Satoo prepared with minced meat, eggs, small lizards,
frogs, land snails, and even small birds.

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

It spends much of its time on the ground searching for insects
and spiders. The specimen that lived in the garden often killed rats
and mice. It has a deep monotonous and somewhat doleful note, which
it utters repeatedly for several minutes.

(133) THE LESSER INDIAN COUCAL.

(CENTROPUS VIRIDIS—(Scop.) )

Description—Head, nape, upper tail-coverts, breast and abdomen
greenish-black ; wings and back rul‘ous ; tail greenish-black ; total
length about 15 inches. This species also varies much according to sex
and age.

Huh—Found throughout the greater part of India; more common
in some places than in others.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 243

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

‘ A specimen lived for about six months onl . As it '5 11-
bird, no great trouble has ever been taken to eihibit it. 1 a we known

(134) THE LITTLE INDIAN KINGFISHER.

(ALCEDO BEN GALEN SIS -- Gmel.)
Ben gali—- Chem Mdclzck-rdngd.

. I’labt—India, Qeylon, Burmah, Malayana, &c. It has an exten-
81ve distrIbutIon, being found in Eastern Africa, Siberia, Japan and

the islands of the Malay Archipelago; often found in a wild state
Within the garden.

(135) THE INDIAN S'l‘ORK-BILLED KINGFISHER.

(PELARGOPSIS GURIAL-(Pears) )

Ben gali— Gurial.

Hab.-—Found almost all over India, Ceylon, and even Malayana‘
common in Bengal. ,

(136) THE WHITE-BREASTED KINGFISHER.
(HALCYON SMYRNENSIS—(Linn.))

Hindi—Kflkila. Bengali—Machclz-rdngd.

Hab.»Common throughout the greater part of India, up to the

base of the Himalayas, Ceylon, Burmah, and through the Indo-
Burmese countries to China.

(137) THE LAUGHING KINGFISHER.

(DACELO GIGANTEA—(Lath.))
Hab.——Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen of the Indian Stork-billed kingfisher has been living

for the last three years. A laughing kingfisher lived for about Seven
months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

' Housings—The best possible way of keeping kingfishers is to
give them accommodation SImilar to that assigned for ducksand other
smaller aquatic birds (p. 306). The next best is to keep them with the

Q2

 

 

 

 

244 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

' ' mselves but the disadvantage isthat, unless sufficIently
:gmaetlotfieydsligl: in perpetual fear of theinaquatic compamons and neg-
lect feeding. When taken young, which Is the only chance of taking
most birds, and fed in the same place WIth the ducks, but In a separate
cage, kingfishers soon become accustomed to their presence. A stork-
billed kingfisher has been livililg in 1a lgrlge aVIary dunng the last

' lread tame W en ace ere. . .
yeahlgoldgiggall fish,y prawns, reptliles, frogs, 820.. In captIVIty they
will eat minced meat, but it is better not to gIve 1t every day. Small
live fish may be placed in a gamla (earthen Jar) full of water. d

Breeding.——Kingfishers breed In a wfld state WIthIn the gar en.
A. pair of the white-breasted kingfishers have been. found during the
last four or five years to build regularly In the rhInoceros enclosure
in a steep bank of the tank, some two feet above the surface of the

water.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF KINGFISHEBS.

tivit the are uninteresting birds, sitting motionless on a

erchInafiadP watzhingfnot their prey, but the busy gambols of the other
inmates of the house. The only time that one Is. observed to become
lively is when the food is forthcoming ; the stork-billed‘ kingfisher now
living in the garden may be observed to open Its mandibles while look-

ing on other birds feeding.

(138) THE INDIAN ROLLER.

(CORACIAS INDICA—(Linn.))
Hindi and Bengalinz'lkanta.

ll-k wn bird in Lower Bengal. .
fiavbvfa—Fldgud all over India up to the base of the Himalayas, and

also in Ceylon.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since December 1887. This, however,
does not represent their period of captiVIty, as they were hymg In the
menagerie of the late King of Oudh before then Inclusmn In this

collection.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-Appears to do well in a large aviary ; adult birds do not
thrive at all, and as they are commonly brought In should be rejected.

Food.-—Satoo, minced meat, insects and worms ;' It klllS centIpedes
and small lizards whenever an opportunity presents Itself. . .

Nothing is known with regard to its breeding or ailments In

captivity.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 245

OBSERVATIONS ON ITS HABITS.

Once reconciled to captivity, it shows neither timidity nor shyness,
and keeps to the open parts of the aviary; except for a moment or two,
when it descends to carry away its food it is never on the ground;
while sitting on a high perch, it occasionally takes short flights in the
air and again perches on the same spot; this is probably instinctive;
one may sometimes be seen sunning itself after a bath spreading its
wings; it has a harsh grating call, but is not a noisy bird.

(139) THE BURMESE ROLLER.

(CORACIAS AFFINIS—McC’Zell.)

Bab—Except in the extreme south of Tenasserim, it is found
throughout Burmah; it is also found in Siam and Cochin-China, and
extends through the Indo-Burmese countries to Assam and as far west
as Calcutta. ‘

A specimen lived for about a month only.

(140) THE RHINOCEROS HORNBILL.

(BUCEROS RHI N OCEROS~Li7m.)

Description—Head, neck, back, wings, breast, uniform bluish-
black; thighs, lower part of the abdomen, upper and under tail-coverts, -
rump, pure white; tail pure white with black band across its lower
third (the width of the black band varies much in different specimens);
the most conspicuous point of this species is its large upturned casque,
which is generally red, but slightly yellowish anteriorly ; the bill is of
a light-yellow colour, having a triangular space of red at the base of
the maxilla, and of black on the mandible ; iris yellowish; eyelid red ;
total length about 36 inches. Sexes slightly difi’er; the back part of
the casque in the female is reddish instead of black, and the eyelids
are white.

Hab.--Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About four years.

(141) THE JAVAN RHINOOEROS HORNBILL.

(BUCEROS SILVESTRIS—Vz’eill.)

Description—In general appearance it resembles the preceding
species, but difiers from it in having a casque thch 1s straight and not
upturned; the base of both the maxilla and the mandible black, edged
with red; the colour of the bill pale yellow, but it varies somewhat in
different specimens.

Hab.——Java.

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living for the last five years.

(142) THE GREAT PIED HORNBILL, OR THE HOMRAI.

(DICHOCEROS BICORNIS—(Lz‘nn.) )

Description—Head, at the base of the casque and the bill, black;
occiput, neck, thighs, upper and under tail-coverts white ; wings black ;

the tips of the greater coverts, primaries and secondaries, white; a.

patch at the middle of the primaries white; tail white with a black
band across; bill curved and pointed and of a light yellow colour; the
base of both maxilla and mandible black; casque broad and flat,
forming a notch at its Junction with the bill, and extending posteriorly
over the head for about half an inch ; the greater part of the casque is
of the same colour as the bill ; its posterior termination is black, edged
with red ; anteriorly it is also black, which reaching to the bill continues
along the culmen to the point; the total length of an adult specimen is
over 3 feet.

Hab.-—-—In India it inhabits the lower ranges of the Himalayas,
southern slopes of the Nilgiris, and the forests of the Malabar Coast ;
it is also found in Assam, Burmah, the Malayan peninsula and
Sumatra. With very few exceptions the specimens hitherto exhibited
in the garden came either from the Malayan peninsula or Sumatra.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No specimen has yet lived for more than five years and a few
months.

(143) TEMMINCK’S PIED HORNBILL.

(AN THRACOCEROS CON VEXUS-—(Temm.) )

Description—The whole under part, including the thighs, white;
the ends of the primaries and secondaries. and all the lateral tail
feathers also white; the rest of the plumage black, with faint purplish
reflexions ; a narrow circle round the eyes White; an irregular
square patch of white at the cheeks; bill curved and yellowish white;
the casque is also of the same colour, except its two ends, which are
black, there being more black anteriorly than in its posterior ter-
minus; it ends rather abruptly on the bill at about two-thirds of its
length; total length about 28 inches; iris red ; feet plumbeous.

Hab.——Malacca, Java, Sumatra, Borneo. Specimens undoubtedly
referrible to this species, and exhibited here, were said to have been
obtained from the Himalayas. This, however, requires confirmation.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(144) THE SMALL PIED HORNBILL.

(AN TH RACOCE RD S ALBIROSTRISwwhaw.) )

notion—Head neck, the Whole upper part, including the
winggeziiidj tail, with the exception of.the tips. of the latter, black
with a bluish gloss; the under parts, with the tips of the secondaries
and primaries, and the ends of the tail, white; bill curved, and of
a yellowish white colour, with a black patch at the base of the mandible ,
casque, which is narrow and sharp in front, and rounded and blunt
behind, is of the same colour as the biil; broadurregular patch. of
black at its anterior end extending on to the bill; abare reddish
patch just behind the base of the mandible; also a very narrow
patch of the same colour behind the eyes; total length about 80

' ° 1 g leaden blue.
inchei; the8 female the casque does not extend so far forward on the

, maxilla as in the male, and also gently slants down instead of ending

' l .
m a Iggy-fullgd‘ia, Burmah, the Malayan peninsula and Borneo. In

India it has been recorded from Midnapore, Rajmahal, Monghyr,
Nepal, Assam, Sylhet and Tipperah.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About six years.

(145) THE WHITE-BILLED HORNBILL.

(ANTHRACOCEBOS MALAYANUS~(Rafies.))

. . . . . . . the
. ~ 15 .—-It is a ct black bird With the exception of

tips 3?th zlositeral tail felathers, which ,are white; bare space mun}
the eye blue; colour of the bill and casque bluish black; the base 0

a o'ects backward over the forehead, while its anterior
blbrtibiisildi'lilnlglan acute angle with maxilla slants upwards and forwards
to a point ; total length about 30 inches; legs leaden blue.

Hab. -—-Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVlTY.

Nearly three years.

(146) THE GREY HORNBILL.

(OCYCEROS BIROSTRIS—(Skaw.))
Bengali—Blames.

- - ' ' . deeper
Desert teon.—-—The prevailing colour of the plumage grey, .
LENGTH OF LIFE 1” CAPTIVITY— about the liead and lighter about the abdomen andlliaplx; pgimlaréss :nndd
Some have been living for over two years. secondaries brownish-black tipped With white, tai ippe w .1 ,

 

  

“hm”. emu“... V, 1,4,, , . _. a, t. . .
~< max-.1 54; «my; . .: am i n. .~..

«r-a , *miuffi'fiflf m‘%:\wqmr4run~amnm'~m wwwhgw'wu . «3 i ,v»,

.; mwrfiwmfifvwnwrmw~w

 

« 'mm-lm w.,r;m’mz \ r-

Ammm.my an.“
we I: a.-

yaw,

E's 12.2,... r.

248 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

above that a black bar; bill much curved, its anterior part yellowish-
white, rest greyish-black ; casque is low and compressed, anteriorly it
forms an acute angle with the culmen, then slants forward and upward
to a very sharp point; total length about 20 inches, iris red-brown ;
feet plumbeous.

Hubs—Found in the drier parts of India, but does not extend east of
Western Bengal. Specimens are now and then brought to the Calcutta
market from Midnapore, Hazaribagh, and Monghyr.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

' No record has been kept of the actual period during which any of
them lived in the garden.

(147) THE RUFOUS-NECKED HORNBILL.

(ACEROS N EPALEN SIS—(HodgsJ )

Descrz'ptz'on.-Head, which is slightly crested behind, neck, and
lower parts generally, black with a green gloss; most of the primaries
broadly tipped with white; the terminal half of the tail white, the rest
black; bill yellow; no casque; the base of the culmen slightly raised;
the sides of the upper bill ridged at the base; the grooves of the ridges
chestnut brown; the naked skin around the eye and at the base of the
bill, light blue; the naked sac of the neck, red, lined with blue; total
length about 3 feet. The sexes differ; the female being entirely dingy-
black glossed with green; the tips of the primaries and the ends of
the tail feathers of the same colour as in the male. A pair of young
birds were recently on exhibition in the garden ; neither of them had
any blue lining to the red sac of the neck.

Hab.-—South-East Himalayas; the hill ranges of Assam and
Manipur ; Tenasserim.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Slightly over six years.

(148) THE WREA'I‘HED HORNBILL.

(RHYTIDOCEROS UN DULATUS—(Slzaw.) )

‘ Descriptz‘on.--Top of head, crown, and occiput dark brown; sides
of the head yellomsh white (colour varies somewhat in different speci-
mens); lower neck_and breast white; the rest of the plumage black,
wrth greenish reflexmns ; tail white; bill buffy-white; the base of the
culmen roughened With the presence of several transverse scaly grooves,
base of max111a and mandible grooved, and of a brown colour in the
former, and reddish-brown in the latter; bare skin around the eye
pinkIsh, that of‘ the throat, forming a miniature sac, yellow, with a
consplcuous 1mm g of dark blue on its lower part; total length about
28 Inches ; 1n the female the naked skin of the throat blue.

     

 

 

    
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
 
  
   
   
  
  
   
    
  
  
 
   
   
   
  
  
  
   
  
    
 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 249

Hab.-—-Found in the hill ranges of Sylhet, Cachar, and extends
through the Malayan peninsula to Sumatra and Java. ‘

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About six years.

(149) THE WRINKLED-BILL HORNBILL.

(CRANORRHIN US CORRUGATUS—(Temm.) )

Description.——Sides of the head, neck, and upper breast white;
the rest of the plumage black; the terminal portion of the tail deep
rufous ; bill yellow with a blunt pyramidal red casque; base of the
neck red, with irregular blue markings; the bare skin around the eye
blue; the female has no red casque, but the culmen is somewhat raised
at its basal half; throat blue.

Hebe—Malacca, Sumatra, and Borneo.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about a month and a half only.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hominy—However advantageous it may be in many ways, the
hornbills cannot, unfortunately, he kept in a large aviary where num-
bers of other birds of different sizes live. They are not only tyrannical,
but to a certain extent predatory in habits, so that small birds cannot
but fare badly with them; neither is it altogether safe to keep a num-
ber of them, of the same or different species, together, as they are given
to fighting among themselves ; but if a keeper is intelligent and watch-
ful, and all the birds are healthy, there 1s no very great diffi-
culty in managing them; the slightest aggressive tendency on the
part of any may be immediately checked, or a weak .or timid specimen
removed. Young, and even newly-acquired old blrds, remain ve
helpless for some time, and they should on no account be placed,
on arrival, with the older specimens. For these young or otherwise
helpless birds, which are incapable of flight, blocks of .wood or stone
or low perches or ladders should be provided, and a the]: bedding of
hay spread over the floor of the cage. A lefty and. spaCIOIIS cage
where they can sail about merrily, and one whlch 1s neither very cold
during the winter nor very warm during the summer, Is the most
desirable accommodation for hornbills ; branches of tamarind or sissoo,
or in their absence stout garan poles; make capital perches for them;
one or two hollow logs of wood, which they may at 1931813 make use Of
as retiring nests should, if possible, be provided. Durlng the summer
hornbills have been found to appreciate a shower bath administered
by a garden syringe. . , . . .

, 17004,...111 captivity they thrive on a mixed diet consisting of
boiled rice, minced meat and fruits; small birds and Insects are

 

 

 

250 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

occasionally given as a change to sharpen their appetite. Their
manner of taking food is characteristic, and unless therefore the
boiled rice is made into pellets or balls they cannot take it ; the minced
meat may also be mixed up with the boiled rice when making the
pellets ; all sorts Of berries and figs whenever available should be given
them, but when these are not to be had, plantains cut up into bits
should be substituted. Hornbills are voracious feeders, and are there—
fore expensive birds to keep. Young birds should be fed several times
a day, and it may be necessary to feed them by hand.

Brecding.—--Hornbills have never bred in captivity here. It may
not be uninteresting tO mention in this connection the singular habit
of the male “ of enclosing the female in— the hollow of some tree, firmly
fastening her in by a wall of mud, and keeping her a closed prisoner
until the eggs are hatched.”

Transport—A hornbill is easy to transport, as it is not an excitable
creature. Its travelling cage ought to be somewhat higher than the
size of the bird may require, as it is accustomed to jerk up its bill when
feeding.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Severe cold, inflammation of the lungs, rheumatism, intestinal
worms, diarrhoea and other undetermined forms of diseases have been
met with amongst these birds. Young birds have sometimes suffered
from rheumatism during the winter, but recovered with the setting in
of the warm weather; cold and diarrhoea have often been found to
follow each other, and as often yield to careful dieting and nursing;
the first requisite, of course, being the removal Of the patient to a snug
handy cage, where it can be handled without causing much annoyance
to it. One drachm of rum and ten drops of syrup Of lactate Of iron are
generally effective when there is diarrhcca and cold. If there be any
difficulty of breathing, five to eight grains of chlorate of potash in water
may be given with good result.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F HORNBILLS.

Although generally shy in their wild state, hornbills become very
tame in captivity, so that it is not unusual to observe them coming
to the side of the cage ready to respond to friendly greetings. This
trait of character is especially noticeable in certain species, such as the
small pied hornbill. Rhinoceros hornbills have also been known to get
wonderfully tame within a few days after their arrival. The flight of
the hornbill, especially of the larger Species, is laboured and heavy, and
accompanied by much whirring noise. They have a curious habit Of hop-
ping about Sideways, not only on the perch which may be necessary, but
on the ground also. Young hornbills have a plaintive cackling note
which they keep on uttering almost continually, but more eSpecially
when hungry ; the adult pied hornbill has a somewhat pleasing metallic
sound which it quickly and repeatedly utters several times ; the
homrai, though usually a silent bird, sometimes makes a loud and
very deep noise which may be heard from a very long distance. For
further information Elliot’s Monograph of the Buccrotidae, or family of
the Hornbill, may be consulted.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 251

(150) THE ARIEL TOUCAN.

(RAMPHASTOS ARIEL—~‘Vig.)

Description.—-Bill, which resembles that Of a hornbill without
a casque, black; throat and breast orange yellow, bounded below by
a bright yellow hand ; below that is a patch of scarlet.

flab. --Brazil. '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About thirteen months.

(151) THE SULPHUR-BREASTED TOUCAN.
(RAMPHASTOS CARINATUS—Swainson.)

Throat and breast delicate yellow; abdomen scarlet.
Huh—Mexico.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About the same as the last.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Hoasing.-——Toucans are impatient of cold and draughts, and greater
success in keeping them alive might be obtained by having a house
from which cold and draughts could be perfectly excluded at night

during the winter. .
Food—Fruits, crumbs of bread, minced meat, and eggs.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.
Very active ; both these species have a metallic ringing note. They
are thoroughly arboreal.

(152) THE ROSE-CRESTED COCKATOO.

(OAOATUA MOLUCCENSI°~(Gmel.))

Though not a native of this country, the bird is SO well known in
Bengal that no description is necessary.
Hab.—-The Moluccas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living in the garden since 1877.

(153) THE GREATER SULPHUR-CRESTED COOKATOO.

(CACATUA GALE RITA—(Lath) )

Also well known in Bengal.
Hab.-—Austra1ia.

  

M.- w zanmm. A.

...;::..uu-__-;..a_’ “Mum < ~—~ ~

 

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A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1877.

(154) THE LESSER SULPHUR-CRESTED COCKATOO.

(CACATUA SULPHUREA—(Gmel.))

Description.——Smaller than an ordinary sulphur-crested cockatoo;
the prevailing colour of the plumage white, with light yellow shade on
the wings and tail; a yellow spot beneath each eye; the crest, which is
pointed and directed forward, is light yellow; bill and legs black.

Huh-The Moluccas and Celebes.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

This species has, unfortunately, been short-lived in this garden,
none of them having survived more than six years.

(155) THE GREATER WHITE-CRESTED COCKATOO.

(CACATUA CRISTATA—(Wagler.))

Description.——Of the same size as the rose-crested cockatoo, with
the exception of the primaries and the lateral tail feathers, which are
shaded light yellow, the bird is entirely snow white; bill plumbeous
black, legs lead colour, irides black or sometimes brown; the crest,
though long, is not visible except when the bird is excited. In some
specimens the crest is light orange red colour, and there is no yellow
shade in the primaries and tail feathers.

Hab.—-—The M oluccas and Geram.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1880.

(156) THE BLOOD-STAINED COCKATOO.

(CACATUA SAN GUINEA— Gould.)

Description—General colour white; lores and front reddish; the
crest is pyramidal in shape; the circular naked Space around the eye
flesh coloured or white; the crest feathers rosy at the base.

Hab.-~ North Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Did not survive more than a year and six months.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(157) THE ROSEATE COOKATOO.

(CACATUA ROSEICAPILLA— Vieill.)

_ Description—Forehead, crown, and occiput white, tinged with
pink; nape, sides of the head, breast and the rest of the underparts
rosy red; back and wings delicate ashy grey; ends of the primaries
ashy black ; under surface of the tail feathers also ashy black.

Hab.—-—Found throughout the greater part of Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living for the past twelve years.

(158) THE CITRON-CRESTED COCKATOO.

(CACATUA CITRINO-CHISTATA—Fraser.)

Descriptz'on.—-Smaller in size than the sulphur-crested cockatoo ;
general colour snow white ; crest pointed and of a citron yellow colour.
Eab.——Timor Laut.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Over six years.

(159) LEADBEATER’S COCKATOO.

(CACATUA LEADBEATERI—-( Vig.))

Descriptz'on.——General colour white; nape, sides of the neck, neck
and breast rosy red, deeper about the breast; a red band across the
front at the base of the bill ; under surface of the wings also rosy red ;
the crest is very conspicuous, being formed of double rows of plumes
joined in front at an obtuse angle; the plumes are red at the base,
above that pinkish yellow, then red again, and the tips white; bill
horny white; legs flesh colour.

Bah—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I‘Y.

Specimens have been living in the garden since 1882.

(160) THE BARE-EYED COCKATOO.

(CACATUA GYMNOPIS—Sclater.)

The distinctive characteristic of this species is the bare area round
the eye; this bare space is much dilated underneath, and of a plum.
beous blue colour; crest pyramidal; lores and front rosy red.

Hab.——Australia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living since 1877.

(161) THE LON Gr-BILLED COCKATOO.
(LICMETI S TE N UIROSTRIS~ Wagler.)

Description.——General colour white; forehead and face reddish;
throat and upper breast pinkish red (in younger Specimens only
patches); bare skin round the eyes faint blue-black; the upper beak
elongated. In some specimens there is more red than in others. It
has no crest, but the feathers of the head are erectile.

Hab.~—-Found in South and South-West Australia, and also more
or less in some other parts.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAP'I‘IVITY.

Specimens have been living for the last fourteen years.

(162) THE GREAT BLACK COCKATOO.

(MICROGLOSSA A.TERRIMA-—(Gmel.) )

Description.—-Size large, general colour black, glossed with a light
greenish-grey tin gs ; a large bare pinkish patch on the cheek below the
eye ; the crest is composed of numerous slender feathers directed back-
ward.

Hab.——New Guinea; also found in the adjacent islands of Eastern
Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived fer a year only.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——-With the exception, perhaps, of the last-named species,
all the cockatoos described above are more or less hardy birds, and
therefore easy to accommodate ; it is only necessary to be careful about
draughts and sudden change of temperature. The method of keeping
cockatoos chained up to a perch is somewhat antiquated, but it is
decidedly preferable, being less cruel, to imprisoning them in very
small cages, where they have hardly room to turn; spacious iron
cages made of @— inch rods and about three feet square, are admirably
adapted for exhibiting them in a zoological garden; the perches for
the cage should be made of the hardest possible wood; a bedding of
hay should be provided, and small logs of old timber or cocoanut
shells given to amuse the birds; even where an opportunity existed,
cockatoos have not been observed to indulge in a bath, but most of

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 255

them appreciate and enjoy a shower from a garden syringe or a water-
ing can ; in fact this is a necessity for them during the sultry hot
days in summer.

Food.-—Paddy, Indian-corn, gram, barley, hemp-seed, chillies, and
vegetables form their principal food in captivity; but besides these a
variety of other things may be given them : the long-billed cockatoo is
extremely fond of sweet potatoes, and enjoys nothing better than digging
up roots and bulbs with its long and pointed bill. Most of them are very
fond of sugarcane ; the great black cockatoo manages, with surprising
ease, to extract the kernel of the hardest nuts which ahammer will
break with difficulty; in captivity all of them evince great partiality
for biscuits, which may be given them as a change; soft food, such as
bread and milk or milk and rice, should be avoided as much as possible.
Although some of the cockatoos feed a great deal upon caterpillars and
insects in their wild state, they do better without them in captivity;
in fact, except under special circumstances, no stimulating food should
be supplied.

Breeding.—- The great white-crested, the long-billed, and the sul-
phur-crested cockatoos have sometimes laid in the garden, but none
of them could be induced to sit, although in every instance the
cage containing the birds was removed to a quiet spot. As far as they
have been observed, cockatoos are not unlikely to breed in this climate
if suitably lodged; a spacious cage or a small aviary in some retired
part of the garden, as much embowered and sheltered by creepers and
shrubs as possible, is all that is necessary; each pair of birds intended
for breeding should, of course, be kept separate, and some hollow logs
of wood provided as nesting accommodation. When the birds show
symptoms of pairing, some stimulating food may be supplied, such as
insects, caterpillars, or even finely minced mutton.

Transport.—-The travelling cage for cockatoos ought to be lined
inside with zinc or sheet iron, and the front made of is" or, still better, i”
iron bars, as otherwise they will soon cut through the wire or the plank;
as many of them can be sent in a cage as the perch will accommodate ;
they are not much given to fighting when a number of the same
species are being carried in this fashion; an exception must of course
be made with respect to the rose-crested and great black cockatoos.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Fortunately cockatoos have generally maintained excellent health
in this garden, and comparatively few cases of sickness have been
observed. Diarrhoea has sometimes been noticed in cockatoos, probably
induced by careless feeding or brought on by exposure to cold; in such
cases birds recover when the cause is removed. Rmmz’ngfrom the nose
caused by cold is not unfrequent in cockatoos during the winter; this
shows that the housing is faulty and that they require more warmth;
but if the bird is really had from cold and shows a disinclination for food
and drink, chlorate of potash, liquorice and honey should be prescribed.
During the hot weather cockatoos have been known to drop down
suddenly dead from apoplewy ; as the subjects sufiered from fat, over-
feeding was probably the cause of these deaths.

 

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF COCKATOOS.

As the rose-crested and the sulphur-crested cockatoos are constantly
caged in Lower Bengal, their habits are well known ; the former becomes
wonderfully tame in an incredibly short time, and, but for its prone-
ness to mischief, can be kept loose in a garden without any risk of its
escaping. The experiment was tried some twelve years ago, and was so
far a success that the cockatoo always came back to its sleeping cage
at night, and, though it occasionally played truant, it never showed any
inclination to stray, but greatly enjoyed its freedom and amused itself
in various ways. A cockatoo has been known to attend the meetings
of the Committee of Management of the gardens, perching with becom-
ing gravity on the back of one of the vacant chairs, and joining in any
bursts of laughter; sometimes it would spend the day in an adjoining
house, and destroy picture frames and tear window curtains, although it
was well treated. The same bird on its expeditions visited the neigh-
bouring Observatory and broke some scientific instruments, so that it
became requisite to confine him to his cage. Cockatoos are, as a rule,
somewhat demonstrative and have various ways of expressing their
pleasure : most of them come to the side of the cage to be stroked and
spoken to, and have most winning manners, but their temper cannot be
always and absolutely trusted. Although not altogether untameable,
the Leadbeater’s cockatoo wants those qualities for which a pet is valued;
it is somewhat shy and suspicious, and takes a very long time to become
reconciled to captivity; teasing makes it wild and spoils its temper
for ever. Some of the cockatoos have a curious habit of hiding under
the thick hay bedding of the cage, and from there calling out softly
as if to create a surprise ; the rose-crested cockatoo, in spite of its many
virtues, has one great drawback—~it screams loudly and sometimes inces-
lsargly; the bare-eyed and the great black cockatoos are the least noisy

1r s.

For further information about cockatoos, Gould’s Birds of Aus-
trali:i valume V, and Parrots in Captivity by W. T. Greene, may be
cons te .

(163) THE CRESTED GROUND PARRAKEET.

(CALOPSITTA NOVE-HOLLANDE-(Gmel.))

Descriptionr—General colour of the plumage delicate ashy grey,
somewhat paler about the breast and abdomen; the crest and the face
light yellow; a brownish red patch in the check; the crest, which is
pyramidal in shape, varies in thickness and length in different indivi-
duals, and the bird has no power to elevate or depress it at will ; the
extent and the intensity of the yellow about the face vary somewhat
in different specimens and also according to age, and even, as far as has
been noticed here, according to the season of the year ; the sexes differ,
the female has scarcely any yellow about the face, and the under
surface of its tail is barred and mottled instead of being black like the
male: total length about 11 inches.

Hab.——Australia.

 

IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen is living since 1880, another since 1882, and others
for over two years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housz’ng.——-It does equally well singly or in pairs, in small cages or
in large aviaries; with respect to cold and draughts, the same .care
should be bestowed upon it as upon a cockatoo or any other delicate
bird; though fond of nibbling at things, the cutting power of Its beak
is limited, so that its cage need not be as strong as that of a cockatoo.

Food-Smaller grains and seeds constitute their prlncipal food;
in this garden they are chiefly fed upon canary seeds and paddy, With
a constant and liberal supply of vegetables.

Breeding.——They have occasionally laid eggs, ‘but never succeeded
in hatching out young, having unfortunately given up s1tt1ng after
a day or two. A box one foot long, 9 1nches 1n breadth and helght,
with a saucer-shaped wicker basket fixed inside, makes excellent nestmg
accommodation for a pair of these birds. . . .

Nothing is known about their ailments 1n captIVIty.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

When half a dozen of them are living with other birds in a large
aviary, they flock together, but they are by no means exclusive, as
now and then one may be observed to associate and even make friends
with a different species; the motions of these 11.111118. are graceful as
they either fly or walk on the ground; those livmg. In a large av1ary
seldom learn to talk: cage birds, however, soon pick up words and

sentences.

(164) ALEXANDRINE, OR THE ROSE-BAND
PARRAKEET.

(PALEORNIS EUPATRIUS—(Linn.))

Hindi—Rai-Suga. Bengali—Ohandmm.
This and the following parrakeets (Nos. 165, 168, 169 and_170) are
well known in Lower Bengal, and therefore no description 1s given. It

' hat in size and colour. . . .
vane‘31YEii)l)m-(:Vyl‘his species is found in Northern India, Including the

es of the Himalayas, the forests of Malabar, Central and
g;:he::n§ndia, Eastern Sunderbuns, and extends through Assam and
Cachar to British Burmah; it is also found In Ceylon and Eastern
China: those found in Ceylon are smaller and llghter-coloured birds

than those from Northern India.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen from Northern India has been living in the garden for

upwards of ten years.
R

 

 

 

258 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

A larger variety of this bird has now and then been obtained from
the Andaman Islands, but as it does not differ from the present species,
except in size, it has been included under it.

(165) THE ROSE-RINGED. PARRAKEET.

(PALEORNIS TORQUATUS~(Bodd.))

Hindi—Tiger, Gollar. Bengali—Toto, Tim.

A perfectly yellow variety of this bird with a faint mark of the
ring; is sometimes met with, and those with yellow predominating are
not uncommon; in the African forms the breast is delicate ashy, and
the. head lavender-blue : the sexes differ in colour.

Bah—Found throughout India from the foot of the Himalayas to
the extreme south; not so abundant in Eastern Bengal as in other parts;
it is also found in British Burmah and Ceylon, and extends as far east
as Cochin-China. Some may always be found living in a wild state
within the garden. During the season when the sun-flower seeds ripen,
small migratory flocks are constantly seen foraging on them.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI'I'Y.

Although specimens of this extremely common parrot are always
living in. the garden, no record has been kept.

(166) THE ROSE-HEADED PARRAKEET.

(PALEORN IS CYANOCEPHALUS—(LinnJ )
Hindi—Tuia-tota. Bengali—Farz'adi or Faredz'.

In captivity some have been noticed never to assume the cherry-
red cap so characteristic of an adult male.
Huh—Found almost all over India, extending through Assam to

Burmah and Ceylon; in Lower Bengal it is chiefly confined to its
western limits.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Unfortunately no record has been kept; they appear to bear
captivity less kindly than other Indian parrakeets.

(167) THE SLATYoHEADED PARRAKEET.

(PALZEORNIS SCHISTICEPS-Hodgs.)

Hindi and Bengali~llladna.

Description—Head slaty-blue, much paler in some; general colour
green; a narrow band of black separating the slaty-blue of the head
and the green of the rest of the plumage; a reddish wing spot present
in the male; in the female the spot is faint and indistinct.

 

 

 

 

 

r _
1N CAP’I‘IVI'IY IN LOWER BENGAL. 209

Huh—Lower ranges of the N orth-West Himalayas; the hill
ranges of Assam and Sylhet ; not uncommon in Eastern Bengal.‘

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About five years.

(168) THE BLUE-WINGED PARRAKEET.

(PALZEORNIS COLUMBOIDES~Vig.)

Description—Head, nape, upper back, chest and abdomen pale
ashy grey; a green patch on the forehead, lores and below the eyes; a
green collar encircles the neck, widening on its upper part ; the rest of
the plumage green, of different shades and intensity; bill red above,
dusky beneath; legs lead colour; the female differs from the male in
Wanting the collar, or has only a faint trace of it.

Hab.-—Found only in the Malabar coast and on the slopes of the
Nilgiris up to about 6,000 feet : the specimens exhibited in the garden

were obtained from the jungles of Travancore.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair having lived for about two years were killed by some
civets at night.

(169) THE RED-BREASTED PARRAKEET.

(PALEORNIS FASCIATUS—(P. L. S. Miller.) )7
Hindi and Bengali——dela.

The Kafla is very commonly domesticated in Bengal.
Hab.~—Sub-Himalayan regions, Assam, Sylhet, British Burmah;

and extends through the Malayan peninsula to Java. J avan specimens
appear to differ in no respect from the Indian birds.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record is available, but it bears captivity extremely well.

(170) THE MALAYAN PARRAKEET.

(PALZEORN IS LON GICAUDA—(Bodd.) )
It resembles the red-breasted parrakeet in general appearance, but

differs from it in having the head a beautiful rosy-red

Had-«The Malayan peninsula.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIvITY.
No record.

 

 

A HAND—BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(171) THE RED-CHEEKED PARRAKEET.

(PALEORNIS ERYTHROGENYS—(Blyth.) )

Descmptz'on.-—Tota1 length of an adult male is about 18 inches
(larger specimens have also been recorded) ; the maxilla red, tip yellow ;
the mandible horny grey or blackish; the characteristic feature of the
species is the red cheek ; general plumage green.

Bah—The Andaman Islands.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About three years.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing-Most of the birds mentioned above are commonly
domesticated in Bengal, and are either kept in circular dome-shaped
iron cages, or chained to a perch: in a zoological garden, however, a
spacious aviary is by far the best accommodation for them, particularly
for the rose-headed and the blue-winged parrakeets; some of them
have tremendous cutting power in their beaks, and there are birds that
appear to take delight in destroying everything that comes in their
Way ; such destructive birds should be turned out of an aviary unless
the wire netting is strong enough to resist the ceaseless assault of their
powerful beaks: they are all fond of a bath, and when living in a
large aviary they have no difficulty in gratifying this love of cleanli-
ness, but when kept in a cage or chained up to a perch, a cold water
douche would be very agreeable to them, especially during the hot
weather.

Facet—Like the cockatoos, they also thrive on grain, seeds, and
vegetables; in this garden they are ordinarily fed upon gram, soaked
or raw ; paddy, Indian-corn, chillies, and vegetables; by way of change,
fruits, biscuits, boiled potatoes are also given them occasionally; the
rose-headed and red-checked parrakeets are particularly fond of fruits,
and most of them enjoy a feast of ripe papya (Carica papya) : all must
have ready access to clean drinking-water.

Breeding.~~The ring-necked parrakeets have laid several times, but
have not yet succeeded in hatching out a brood; this is, however,
no fault of theirs; their surroundings are most unsuitable for such a
domestic success ; they often breed in a wild state in the garden; they
are seldom found to bore holes in trees, but prefer a water-spout of a
high terraced building to build their nest in. There is no doubt that,
if the treatment recommended for the breeding of cockatoos be adopted
in the case of these parrakeets also, some, if not most, of them will
breed freely.

Transport.-—-—A cage similar to that recommended for the con-
veyance of cockatoos, but proportionately smaller, and with lighter rods
in front, will do for these; the rose-headed, slaty-headed, and the blue-
winged parrakeets are not much given to cutting, and their cage need
not therefore be lined with zinc inside; when, during the transport,
cold latitudes are reached, the cage should be well wrapped in blanket

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 261

and, if possible, kept near the engine-room of a steamer; sudden cold is
fatal to most of them.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

These parrakeets, with few exceptions, are hardy birds, and, if once
established in captivity, maintain excellent health for years: cold and
mflammatz’on of the lungs are the common complaints from which some
of them have been known to suffer; the former generally yields to
dietetic and hygienic treatment, but the latter invariably terminates in
death: the percentage of loss is comparatively large amongst the newly
acquired rose-headed parrakeets.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The Alexandrina, the ring-necked and the red-breasted parrakeets
are remarkable for their intelligence and acquisitive faculties; the slaty-
headed and the blue-winged parrakeets do not appear to be endowed
with the same mental faculties as those of the parrakeets mentioned
above; they are both shy and retiring in disposition, and are therefore
not suitable pets. All of them are in the habit of sleeping with their
head turned back with the beak hidden amongst the feathers.

(172) THE RED-SIDED ECLECTUS.

(ECLECTUS PECTORALIS—(Miiller.) )

Hindi and Bengali—Hirman or Hz’raman iota, the green bird;
Lalmokan, the red bird.

Though a native of New Guinea, the species is well known in
Bengal; it is not, however, generally known that the sexes differ so
widely, and that the green-coloured bird is the male, and the scarlet one
the female, of the same species.

Hab.-—New Guinea.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A male has been living since.188'2: it appears from the number of
deaths that take place among the new arrivals that these birds are
somewhat difficult to acclimatize.

TREATMENT IN CAPTIVITY.

Housing—May be kept singly or in pairs in iron cages like those
recommended for the cockatoos; they are not much given to biting the
wire; extremely susceptible as they are to cold, great care must be
bestowed upon them, at least for the first few weeks after their arrival.

Fowl—Fruits, grains, and seeds constitute their principal food
in captivity ; bread, biscuits and vegetables being occasionally allowed
as a change: so long as the birds do not become well acclimatized, much
attention should be paid to feeding them according to their taste and
inclination; green shoots of corn are always agreeable to them, parti-
cularly during the first stage of their captive life.

 

262 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

They are listless and inactive birds, but become very tame and
affectionate ; a few of them learn to talk, but their power in this respect

is vgry limited; although generally quiet, they sometimes scream very
lou .

(173) THE RED-WINGED PARRAKEET.
(APBOSMICTUs ERYTHROPTERUS—(Lath.))

Descriptions—The general colour of the plumage green ; back,
shoulders and the wing coverts black; a lengthened patch of crimson
gives the bird its distinctive characteristic ; beak orange red : the sexes
are said to differ, the female having no red patch on the wing.

Ha b.-.—-Northern Australia.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen lived for about six months only.

(I74) THE KING PARRAKEET.

(APROSMICTUS SCAPULATUS—(Kuhl.) )
Description—The head, neck, and all the under surface of the

body, as well as the under tail-coverts, red ; the rest of the plumage
green; the tail greenish-black: the female is less gorgeously coloured,
havrng the prevailing colour of its plumage dirty green, with a faint

shade of red about its breast; the young males also have no red.
Hab_.-—New South Wales.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A little over five years.

(175) THE LARGE-BILLED PARRAKEET.

(TAN YGN ATHUS MEGALORHYNCHUS—(Bode )

Descm’ptz’on.—-Total length 15 inches; general colour of the plumage
green; feathers of the shoulders greyish-black, margined yellow and
tipped black; the upper tail-coverts bright green; the whole under

surface yellowish-green; the maxilla orange red; mandible light
yellow.

Hab.—-Gilolo and Ceram.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly seven years: specimens have also been living for the last
five years.

1N CAPTIVITY 1N LoWEB BENGAL.

(176) THE SUMATRAN LARGE-BILLED PARRAKEET.

(TANYGNATHUS SUMATRENSIS~(Rafles.))

' ' ' » " - the preced-
. t n a..-—Smaller and much lighter in colour than
ing Digighgail: crown and nape green, mottled With yellow ; upper geek
light yellow; breast and under abdomen light yellow; under sur= ace
of the quills light ashy.

Hab.———Sumatra.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

There is no record of the period during whicli it lived in the
garden ; it died soon after its arrival.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

' .-——- he king arrakeet appears to do well in an avrary;
but glfhzglargb-bflledoagd the blue-crowned parrakeetstciilges are (£00
be preferred: Wherever a king parrakeet .18 placed it muteh ave rea y
access to water for bathing, especially during the hot wea er.

Food.-—Grains of various kinds and vegetables.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

' ' I t appear to be
t1 ca acities of these parrakeets do no .
susce'gtiblemdfn :Iuch ptraining, and 11011116 of thefm eferdgttaéplttlilpe 813$;
t eness as most birds of t 6 same ami y ..’ . .
giggliecei isaiilharmless creature and not given to scratching or biting.

(177) THE INDIAN LORIKEET.

(LORICULUS VERNALIS-o(8parr.) )

In Hindi and Benaali all the lorikeets. arts known as latkan, z‘.e.,

' 0' ' 'tlia t an s ecific distinc Ion. ‘ .,
hangfi§c§igi§$$£lfidtal liebgthibgut 5% inches; the general colour of
the plumage green ; throat blue ; rump and upper tail-covertshcrinlilson 3
uills tinged with blue on the outer webs; breast tinged wit ye ow .
the sexes differ, the female having no blue on the threat. ”1 f th‘
Hab.—-—Found in the Sub-Himalayan rggiltfinz, *6 Jungx eseoténd:
th h-ll ran es of Assam, y e , ippera , X, ' .
x3333: Jtl(1)easliidoiaBnlrmesegcountries to Burmah, the Malayan penin-

sula, and the Andaman Islands.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although there is no record of individual specimens, these birds
generally do well.

 

 

264: A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(178) THE OEYLONESE HANGING PARRAKEET.

(LORICULUS ASIATICUS~(Lath.) )

Descrgctz'onr—Total length about 5 inches ; the general colour of the
plumage green ; forehead and crown deep red, washed with orange on
the nape; rump and upper tail-coverts also deep red; some of the
quills edged with blue; cheeks and the area round the eyes and the

whole of the under surface pale green, tinged with blue in the foreneck.
Babs—The Island of Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A pair of them lived close upon seven years.

(179) THE BLUE-CROWNED HANGING PARRAKEET.

(LORICULUS GALGULUS~(Linn.))

Description.—--Length 4%,- inches to 5 ’ inches ; general colour of the
plumage green ; French blue flake on the crown; a triangular patch of
golden yellow on the back ; upper tail~ccverts red; a red patch on the
breast; bill black; the female differs from the male in having no blue
patch on the head and no red on the breast; the golden yellow cf the
back also faint.

Hath—Malacca.

LENGTH or LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

This species also has not done well in captivity, so that none of
them have ever lived more than two years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—A large aviary, where they can fly about at pleasure
and enjoy some freedom, is no doubt very desirable for these birds, but
such an arrangement has its disadvantages also; the birds get lost in the
space and, amongst others, the food intended for them—and they require
somewhat special feeding-is robbed by other birds; they starve or eat
anything that comes in their way, become ill and die; so that it is on
the whole better to keep them in large cages such as that recommended
for the liothrix (No. 23), either by themselves, or with such harmless
birds as the liothrix and Java sparrows; the cage should be furnished
with logs of wood or cocoanut shells to enable them to find employment
and exercise in pecking; they must have access to water both for
drinking and bathing; avoid as much as possible keeping them in very
small cages.

Feeding.—-The majority of deaths that have happened among these
birds shortly after their arrival must unfortunately be attributed to
ignorance of their food; the gen eral practice among the dealers is to
feed them on boiled rice, 9. most unsuitable diet for birds which in

 

gr

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 265

their wild state feed on fruits and the saccharine juice of flowers: the
erroneousness of the dealers’ practice has only been proved by costly
experience in this garden. In captivity they thrive on sugarcane,
plantains and other luscious fruits; biscuits, bread, boiled sweet potatoes
and vegetables may occasionally be given. ,
Breeding.-—In consequence of unsuitable accommodation they have
never bred in this garden; they have, however, frequently during
the spring shown tendencies towards breeding; and the experiment of
assigning a good sized cage, with suitable nesting accommodation in
some retired spot to properly matched lorikeets, might be successful.
Trans;90rt.-During the season when sugarcane is available there
need be no difficulty, as with proper care it may be made to last a
good while ; at other times plantains, raisins, dates, and sweet potatoes
may be provided. ~
Nothing 18 known about their ailments in captivity.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The lorikeets are not unfrequently caged in Bengal; and, if well
acclimatized, get very tame ; they are, however, never demonstrative,
neither are they endowed with much intelligence, but they are very
active cheerful creatures, and have a pleasant chirping call note, which
they continue to utter when something unusual attracts their attention,
or sometimes without any cause ; their flight is rapid, and they possess
the cpeculiar habit of resting or sleeping pendant with their heads down-
war 3.

(180) THE TORQUOISINE GRASS PARRAKEET.

(EUPHEMA PULCHELLA~(Shaw.))

Descréotion.- Of the size of a crested ground parrakeet; the general
colour of the plumage above, olive green ; the forehead, lores and the
cheeks sky blue ; the border of the wing also the same colour ; an elongated
red patch on the wing; under parts of the body yellow; sexes differ,
the female having less blue about the face and the wings, and the Wing
spot is reddish-brown instead of red.

Hula—New South Wales.

LENGTH OF LIFEIN CAPTIVITY.

A pair obtained in July 1878 lived for about three months 'only,
having never recovered from the delicate condition in which they
arriVed, nor was their habitation suitable.

(181) THE UNDULATED GRASS PARRAKEET.

(MELOPSITTACUS UNDULATUS—(Sbaw ) )

Budgem'ca of the Calcutta bird-sellers.
Description-’1" he ground colour of the plumage greenish-yellow;
forehead and face yellow ; the feathers of the nape, sides of the neck, back

 

   

266 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

and wing ' coverts grayish black, margined with yellow, giving it a.
finely variegated appearance, especially about the neck; on each side
of the beak are series of dark blue spots (number and position vary in
difierent individuals), the cere of the nostrils in the adult bird blue; in
the adult female very faint blue or cream coloured, becoming brown or

brownish when maturity is attained; the total length about 7% inches.
Huh—South Australia. '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

‘ Identification is difficult, as the older specimens get mixed up with

the later acquisitions. It is certain, however, that some of those
obtained in 1880 are still flourishing.

I

(182) THE ROSE‘FACED LOVE-BIRD.

(AGAPORNIS ROSEICOLLIS—( Weill.) )

Description—Total length about 5 to 5% inches; the general
colour of the plumage light green; forehead scarlet; the cheeks and
throat rosy-red; the rump and upper tail-ccverts washed with blue;
tail crossed with reddish—brown and black bands, there being a tinge

of blue between the reddish-brown and the black; beak horny light
grey ; legs plumbecus.
Hab.--South Africa.

(183) THE GREY-HEADED LOVE-BIRD.
(AGAPORNIS CANA~(GmeZ.) )

Descm'ptz’cn.:——Smaller than the preceding; the general colour of
the plumage green; head, neck, and upper breast pale ashy; the
female difiers from the male in having the head, neck and breast much
lighter, and in having black spots on the tail.

Bah—Madagascar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Specimens have been living since 1883.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—-—Unsuitable accommodation hastened the death of the
torquoisine parrakeets. Though the cage was protected from rain, the
house was damp and exposed to draughts-conditions most unfavourable
to parrot life; the undulated grass, parrakeets have done well here;
they may be safely kept in roomy cages in a verandah which can
be closed in. They are sociable creatures and like to live in company;
fresh turf should frequently be laid at the bottom of the cage, as they
enjoy peeking at grass and earth. They are ordinarily not fond of

 

 

1N CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 267

' a but a shallow trou h of water should be allowed them during
Egghldifinmer, or an cccasiiginall1 shower-bath applied With a garden
' o . 'rds do we 1n ca es. .
syrlnfigcd.31§illeftf bhemp and canagy seeds, and vegetables; frults,
bread, biscuits and sugarcane are also very acceptable to them;
whenever possible, shoots of green corn should be given them, and
occasionally salt. All tlgase gram-eating birds must have some grave

laced in t e ca e.
or cogijed?;g(l3The undulateéd grass parrakeets have only once bred
in the garden. Of the five white eggsdaid, only two were hatched,
the rest were broken, perhaps by other. birds; an empty coccanuti c:
an old cigarbcx with a circular-hole 1n the Side, large enough to a m1t
the bird, makes excellent nesting accommodation; even when no
breeding they largely use their nests, and may often be seen peckingf
at the fibres of the cocoanut: some sand and plaster off the wall p
an old building should be strewn on the floor pf the cage to supp y
them with lime. They are prefvented from breeding by the presence
' b want 0 rlvacy.

0f StlfiiizgzipbiifE—Efiindieds of uliidulated grass parrakeets are con-
stantly imported packed up in very small cages. This 1s cruel. There
ought not to be more than a dozen birds placed 1n a cage about 18
inches long, 12 inches broad, and about 9 inches h1gh.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

, ' lar e
The are enerally hardy, but deaths frequently occur in a g
stock cfygrassgparrakeets. They are not known to suffer from any
special diseases.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

ndulated rass arrakeets are noisy, always active and supremely
busygbout notlfing. pThey make the best of_the1r captive life, and
appear to enjoy it far better than anyotherblrds in a Similar Situaition.
They become very tame, but not while living 1n the midst of a arge
company. The love-birds are silent, quiet. and amiable creatures,
and when kindly treated grow tame and affectionate.

(184) THE PURPLE-CAPPED LORY.
(LORIUS DOMICELLA—(Linn.))

crz' 2tion.-—-The revailing colour of the plumage scarlet; .an
intergiiited band of yellow stretches across the breast; the mags 1:1.1ve
green; head deep purple, which in. certain lights appeartsh fife , 1a
broad band of light purple on thetail; beak orange red, 6 ema e
closely resembles the male, but is lighter coloured.
Hab.-—'l‘he Moluccas and the adjacent islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Some of them have lived for over s1x years.

 

 
  
  

 

 

268 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(185) THE BLACK-CAPPED LORY.

(LORIUS LORI~——(Linn.))

Descm’ptz'on.-Forehead, crown, and occiput black; sides of Tthe
head, throat, and breast carmine red; the back of the neck and the
shoulders violet blue; the lower back, the rump, and the upper
tail coverts carmine red; wings green, the feathers being tipped
black (in very healthy specimens the green of the wings has a
metallic lustre); the tail red at its upper half, but violet towards the
end; the lower breast, abdomen and under tail coverts violet blue,
extending on each side upwards and outwards to meet the same colour
at the shoulder; the under surface of the tail yellowish brown; beak
orange red. Specimens obtained at different times have been found to
vary somewhat in colour and size, especially in the former.

Hab.-—-—New Guinea and the adjacent islands.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

This species has generally been short-lived in this garden, none
having ever survived more than four years.

(186) THE CHATTERING LORY.

(LORIUS GARRULUS—(Linn.))

Descm’ptz‘on.——The general colour of the plumage red ; wings olive
green; the lower ends of the quills black; an irregular patch of light
yellowish olive on the back ; the lower ends of the tail feathers greenish
black; thigh greenish blue; bill ivory white; total length 9% to 10
inches. -

Hab.—-The Moluccas.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No specimen is known to have lived more than two years.

(187) THE RED LORY.

(LORIUS RUBRA—(Gmel.))

Description—The general colour of the luma e l t .
lower tail coverts and the shoulders blue. P g scar e red, the
Hab.—-—-Amboyna.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
No record. '

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 269

(188) THE BLUE-STREAKED LORY.

(EOS RETICULATA—(Mull. at Seal.) )

Description.—-The general colour of the plumage carmine red;
dark violet stripes on the mantle; shaft stripes grey and blue; tail
brownish black

Hab.——~Timor Laut.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1887; others have lived for
about eighteen months.

(189) THE BLUE-BREASTED LORY.

(EOS INDICA-(Gmez.))

Description—The general colour of the plumage is carmine red;
a blue band stretches across the top of the head from one eye to
another; there are other irregular blue lines about the head and neck;
the breast and the back blue; the wings red with black and purple
edgings; the lateral tail feathers purple; the thigh blue; the sexes
differ, the female being somewhat smaller and its markings fainter.
Hab.—-’1‘he Moluccas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A pair obtained in 1880 lived for about seven months only.

(190) THE SMALL PURPLE-CAPPED LORY.

(EOS GUEBIENSIS—(Scom )

Descriptions-Forehead and crown red; occiput purple, which is
continuous with a broad band of the same colour forming a half collar
on the nape; back red; wings violet with black edgings; a patch of
violet on the wing coverts ; throat and upper breast purple ; lower breast
red; abdomen purple; total length about 7 31,- to 7:},- Inches.

Hab.-——The Moluccas.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although there is no record of the actual period during which
specimens have lived in the garden, they have, as a rule, done well

here.

(191) THE ORNAMENTAL LORY.

(TRIOHOGLOSSUS ORNATUS~(Li2m.) )

Description.——Forehead, crown, and occiput violet black, in some
specimens bluish black, with a tinge of Violet; red bands, commencing
from behind the eyes, meet at the nape; a yellow band on each side

 

 

 

 

 

270 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

of the neck; the rest of the upper plumage green; the first quill
feather greyish black, the rest of them green at the outer web, greyish
black at the inner; cheeks, chin, throat and breast red; throat and
breast being barred with black; the abdomen green mottled with
yellow; the upper three-fourths of the inner webs of the outer tail
feathers reddish brown; the outer tail feathers tipped yellow; total
length 731 to 8 inches.
Hab.-—-The Moluccas.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

On an average specimens have lived for about five years.

(192) THE BLUE MOUNTAIN, OR SWAINSON’S LORY.

(TRICHOGLOSSUS NOVZE-HOLLANDZE—(Gmel) )

Descriptions—The head and throat purplish blue, with minute
light blue streaks; the nape greenish yellow; the breast and each side
of the abdomen red; the feathers being margined yellow and purple,
give the whole a scaly appearance; middle of the abdomen blue; vent
and thigh light green ; the rest of the plumage green; the beak orange
red.

Huh—Australia.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

They have generally done well in this garden. There is, however,
no record of their length of life.

(193) THE SOALY-BREASTED LORY.

(TRICHOGLOSSUS CHLOROLEPIDOTUS~KuIzl.)

Description.—-Head and nape beautiful blue; neck band and breast
orange red; belly black.
Hab.-—-New South Wales.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About a year and six months.

(194) THE RED-COLLAREDLORY.

(TRICHOGLOSSUS RUBEITORQUATus-(szq. et. Hmf.) )

Description—Green; feathers on the back yellowish, underneath
the wing red.
Bah-Australia.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Nine years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

IIousing.-—-The lories, especially the purple and black-capped, are
sometimes kept as pets, and although confined in small iron cages, or
chained to a perch, some have been known to live a number of :years -
an aviary is certainly to be preferred; but unless the place is large
and the temper of the birds known, different species should not be mixed
up ; experience has shown that the black and the purplecapped lories
and their congeners, fare badly when placed with the trichoglossi frorri
Australia. The lories live happily with other birds, in a large aviary
but the trichoglossi have to be lodged separately: both of them are
excessively fond of bathing. For this purpose suitable provision should
be made; particular and constant attention should be paid to the
cleanliness of an aviary where a number of soft-billed parrots, and
indeed all birds feeding on soft food, live.

Food.-—-The purple and black-capped lories, and other allied
species, thrive on a mixed diet of bread and milk, fruits, roots, vege-
tables and insects; the trichoglossi feed on seeds, fruits, vegetables,
bread and milk, boiled eggs ; they all like sweet things, so that bread
soaked in honey and water are very welcome to them ; fibrous food is
said to be beneficial to their system; whether this is so or not, they
immensely enjoy nibbling at plants and shrubs, especially of a fibrous
nature; sand and gravel should be strewed over the bottom of the cage
or the floor of the aviar ,as, even for soft-billed birds, some grit is
necessary for digestion. Feeding vessels should be placed in such a
way that their contents may not be soiled by the droppings of birds:

Bi'ecdin_r;.——None of these birds have ever bred in this garden,
although a solitary female of a purple-capped lory has sometimes
produced eggs.

Transport—Be careful about cold and draughts.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Lories have now and then been known to die of fits and inflamma-
tion of the chest; diarrlzwa Is not uncommon among them.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Most of these birds become easily reconciled to captivity; their
power of speech is limited, but they surpass other parrots in intelligence
and amiable qualities; the lories, as a rule, are remarkably tame and
demonstrative, and grow much attached to their owner and keeper-
though generally peaceful, they are sometimes troublesome to the other
inmates. A small purple-capped lory was found one morning per-
sistently peeking at a crown pigeon, and even holding on to its tail
when the latter attempted to escape by flying. They all have very
leanly habits, and a lory may often be seen trying to clean its plumage
bcy rubbing or washing.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(195) PENNANT’S BROADTAIL.

(PLATYCERCUS PENN ANTI-—(Latk.) )

' tz'on.——Prevailin colour of the plumage scarlet; a patch of
bluishpggife? at the base of gthe lower beak ; the shoulder and the wing
coverts also of the same colour; primaries black, edged with .bluish
grey ; neck slightly mottled black; the back and the secondaries, Includ-
ing a portion of the wing coverts, black, broadly edged With red (In
some specimens there is an olive tinge on the back) ; tail. grayish blue;
bill horny white; legs plumbeous; total length about 18 Inches.

Hab.——Australia and New South Wales.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

As yet a little over five years.

(196) BARRABAND’S BROADTAIL.

(PLATYGERCUS BARRABANDI~(Swain.) )

Descrz'ption.——The general colour of the plumage deep green; the
forehead, chin, throat, cheeks, yellow with traces of scarlet about the
check; a broad semi-lunar band of scarlet lines the yellow of the throat;
the quills are edged light blue; the under surface of the tail greyish

black; the beak orange red; legs blackish; total length about 15

4 inches.
Eula—New South Wales.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About three years only.

(197) THE ROSE-HILL BROADTAIL.

(PLATYCERCUS EXEMIUS—(Shaw.))
Rosella of the Calcutta bird-sellers.

Descrz‘ptz‘on.-—Head, crown, occiput, sides of the head, and breast
red; chin and throat white; abdomen olive green; rump red; back
beautifully variegated, the black feathers being edged with yellow; the
upper tail coverts greenish; middle tail feathers bluish, lateral ones
ashy; total length about 10 inches.

Huh—New South Wales.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Seven years represent the longest period during which a pair have
lived in the garden.

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL.

(198) THE YELLOW-RUMPED BROADTAIL.

(PLATYCERCUS FLAVEOLUS-(Gould.) )

Descm'ptz‘on.-—The general colour of the plumage yellow; forehead
and sides of the neck red ; chin and throat violet; primaries ashy brown,
some being edged faint bluish; wing coverts faint bluish, edged white ;
feathers of the back brownish black, broadly edged with yellow; middle
tail feathers brownish black, lateral ones bluish; the length about the
same as the rose-bill parrakeet.

Babe—New South Wales.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Fifteen months only.

(199) THE YELLOW-COLLARED BROADTAIL.

(PLATYCERCUS SEMITORQUATUS—(Quoy. et Gaim.))

Descrz’ptz‘on.-—The general colour of the plumage green; a narrow
crimson band on the forehead; head and its sides brownish black,
tinged with faint bluish about the cheeks ; a yellow band encircles the
back of the neck; the outer webs of the primaries bluish, the inner
being blackish brown; the lateral tail feathers also bluish; length about
16 inches.

Bah—West Australia.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Over five years.

(200) THE NEW ZEALAND PARRAKEET.

(CYANORAMPHUS N OVE ZEALANDZE~(Gmel.) )

Description.——The general colour of the plumage green, of different
shades and intensity at different parts of the body; forehead, crown,
cheeks, and the rump red; total length about 9 inches.

Bah-New Zealand.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The only specimen that was ever imported arrived in a delicate
state of health and survived nine months.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—An aviary is always preferable to a cage in lodging
the broadtails, but as all the members of this group are not equally

S

 

 

274 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALs

peaceful, someitmes difficulty is experienced in housing a species that
is known, or an individual that turns out, to be quarrelsome. The
barrabands’ broadtail has been found to be the worst in this respect:
the male rose-hill parrakeets also become very spiteful during the
breeding season, especially if the females are in the same cage, but
otherwise a rose-hill lives in perfect amity with other birds. The broad-
tails are as impatient of cold and draughts as other parrots, but in
Bengal they also suffer from the opposite extreme; in the sultry hot
days of April and May, with fiery gusts Of Wind, parrots, like many
other birds, suffer dreadfully. At such times a shower-bath of cool
water should be administered in the afternoon. Aviaries with light
roofs become very hot during the summer, but the heat may be easily
alleviated if quick-growing trees be planted round or strong and
heavy creepers grow over them. In planting trees and creepers care
should be taken not to exclude the mOrning sun, which is very grateful
to the birds, especially during the winter. New Zealand parrakeets are
such quiet and shy birds that, unless numerous, they should be kept
in single cages.

Food—Grains, seeds, and vegetables constitute the principal food
of the broadtails and the New Zealand parrakeet; crumbs of bread
may also be occasionally given throughout the year. Indian-corn and
hem-pseeds should be given sparingly during the hot weather, but.
sugarcane, soaked gram, and vegetables are recommended. In their
wild state these birds feed largely on insects and worms, and in capti-
vity they will pick up maggots intended for other birds living with
them, but this should be prevented if possible, as insect food is injurious
to them in confinement. A. small quantity of rock salt should be kept
in one corner of the aviary containing the broadtails, especially the
Pennants’; all should have free access to clean drinking-water. Being
generally delicate, especially on arrival, the New Zealand parrakeets
should be carefully watched during the first few weeks of their
altered life; they are supposed to feed on insects, and may be allowed
a few in conjunction with other food.

Breeding.-—None of the broadtails have ever bred in this garden,
but this is owing more to the want of suitable accommodation than to
any want of inclination.

Transport—Though not endowed with the formidable cutting
power of a cockatoo, some Of the broadtails are destructive; in provid-
ing a travelling cage for them, not only should it be made sufficiently
strong, but'logs of old wood and cocoanut shells should be provided
to allow them to exercise their beaks upon.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.
Diarrhoea and cold are very common among the broadtails, the
results of unsuitable d1et1ng and exposure.
OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITs.

Pennants’ broadtails are gregarious in habits, and even in cap-
tivity they flock together; they are naturally shy, quiet and peace-
able; Barrabands’ broadtails, on the contrary, are spiteful and bad

    

 

 

 

    

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 275

tempered, and seldom become tame; in an aviary they live chiefly on
the floor, searching for seeds, insects and grubs; the rose-hill is the
most sprightly and noisy of this group; the yellow-collared is a very
quiet and gentle creature, although at times apt to become cross and
sulky, probably from being teased by visitors. The New Zealand
parrakeet, as already remarked, is delicate and shy ; though said to be
a ground bird, the specimen in the garden was never seen on the floor
of the aviary, except at the time of feeding.

(201) THE GREATER VASA PARROT.

(CORACOPSIS VASA~ (Lima) )

Descrz‘pte’om— The general colour of the plumage dull grayish black
beak white; total length about 16 inches.
IIab.——Madagascar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about six years.

(202) THE LESSER VASA PARROT.

(CORACOPSIS N IGRA—(Linn.) )

The general colour of the plumage the same as of the preceding
species, but its size is smaller.
Hab.-—-Madagascar.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITr.

A specimen has been living since 1886.

(203) THE GREY PARROT.

(PSITTACCUS ERYTHACUS-Linn.)

Descrz’ption.——The ground colour of the plumage ashy grey, the
feathers of the head, neck and breast being margined with pearl
whitish; the tail short and red; bill black; iris yellow. ‘

Huh—Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Though generally hardy, none of these birds lived more than five
years in the garden.

s2

‘iavr‘p‘g;wg;¢ A, .

276 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.——That both the greater vasa and the grey parrots should
be so short-lived was chiefly owing to unsuitable habitation; generally
Speaking, they should be treated like the cockatoos.

Food.—-To be fed like the cockatoos.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The vasa parrots become almost as tame as grey parrots or
cockatoos; they whistle beautifully, but have never been known to
utter a single syllable; one of the grey parrots exhibited in this
garden was for some time a lady’s pet, and thereby acquired most
wmmn g manners.

(204) THE BLUE AND YELLOW MACAW.

(ARA ARARAUNA~(Linn.) )

Descm‘ptz‘on.——All the upper part deep blue, with a greenish shade
on the forehead and wing coverts; cheeks white, crossed by a few
lines of black feathers; chin black; the rest of the under surface
yellow; bill black; legs dark red colour; about the size of a rose-
crested cockatoo, but looks larger from the length of the tail.

Huh—South America.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The longest period has been six years and a few months.

(205) THE BED AND YELLOW MAOAW.

(ARA CHLOROPTERA—Gmy.)

Description.-—General colour of the plumage red; large bare area
round the eyes white; a band of red velvetty feathers at the base of
the bill ; wing coverts yellow; quills blue ; maxilla white with a black
tip ; mandible black.

Bah—South America.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living since 1881.

- (206) ILLIGER’S MACAW.

(ARA MARAC'ANA—(Vieill) )

Description—Forehead and rump red; the general colour of the
plumage green of various shades, much lighter about the breast and

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 277

under surface generally; border of the wings blue; tail dark reddish
brown, with bluish tips.

Bah—Brazil.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about eighteen months only.

(207) THE YELLOW-BEADED CONURE.

(CON URUS J ENDAYA-(GmelJ )

Description.——Head and neck golden yellow; back and wings
green, part of the wing edged blue; breast reddish yellow; tail green

and blue; bill black.
Hab.——South America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen has been living since 1884.

(208) THE YELLOW-CHEEKED AMAZON.

(CHRYSOTIS AUTUMNALIS—(Linn.))
Huh—Honduras.

(209) THE RED-THROATED AMAZON.
{CHRYSOTIS COLLARIA—-—(Linn.) )

H ab.-——J amaica.

(210) THE YELLOW-FRONTED AMAZON.

(CHRYSOTIS OCHRYOCEPHALA-(G—mel.) )

Hab.-—- Guiana.
All the amazons are birds of green colour of varied shades, and

distinguished from each other by markings as indicated in the specific
names given above.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Except the last-named species, which has been living in the garden
for upwards of threeyears, none of the others have survrved more than

about fifteen months.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—The macaws should be treated like the cockatoos; the
amazons also do equally well as cage birds; the conures are generally

h armless and may be kept in an aviary.
Food.-Grrains, seeds, vegetables, fruits, bread, and biscuits.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Macaws have been known to contract the very bad habit of pluck-
ing their own feathers—e disease to which parrots in captivity appear
to be particularly subject; it is believed to be generally brought on by
want of occupation, or excitement caused by too nourishing a diet;
the taste of blood which the bird gets from sucking the feathers stimu-
lates it to persist in the habit, which gradually becomes so inveterate as
to baffle treatment, Tin collars, bathing with wine, or a decoction of
aloes or quassia, and various other remedies have been recommended.
One of the macaws in this garden continued for four years a victim
to this habit, and of the various remedies tried nothing succeeded better

than a change of habitation.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

The macaws have almost the same habits as the cockatoos; the
amazons are quiet, sedate, and generally undemonstrative birds.

(211) THE INDIAN BARN OWL.

(STRIX J AVANICA—Gmel.)
Bengali—Lakhmi-penchd.
Huh—Found all over India and Ceylon, and extends to Burmah

and Malayana; at least two forms of barn owl are commonly met
with—one very light coloured, and the other darker.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Bears captivity well, but the species being very common and well
known is not always exhibited.

(212) THE GRASS OWL.

(STRIX CANDIDA-Tickell.)

Diaggzosz'Sr-Above brown, feathers with black shafts, and minutely
spotted w1th a subterminal white ; beneath yellowish white, with small
brown specks.

. Hab.——Found throughout India, but nowhere very common;
III; has been also recorded from Tenasserim, Philippine Islands, and
ormosa.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen from Assam lived for about five years.

(213) THE BROWN FISH OWL.

(KETUPA CEYLO N ENSIS—( Gmel.) )

Hindi— Ulee. Bengali—Ham»: pens/ad.

Hab.-——-Found all over India, Burmah, and Ceylon, and is said to
extend to China also.

LENGTH or LIFE IN OArTIVITY.

Three or four of them lived for over ten years, and were, after
that period, set at liberty, in consequence of their habitation being
dismantled.

(214) THE J AVAN FISH OWL.

(KETUPA J AVAN EN SIS—(Lesa) a)
Huh-Java, Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay peninsula.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen obtained in 1880 lived for “about seven or eight
months only. .

(215) THE ROCK-HORNED OWL.

(BUBO BENGALENSIS-(ank.) )
Rah—Found throughout India and Ceylon; rare in Lower Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Nearly twelve years.

(216) THE FOREST EAGLE OWL.

(BUBO NEPALENSIS —Hadgs.)

The distinctive characteristic of this species is its prominent ear

tufts, about three inches long.
Hab.-—The central regions of Nepal, and the lower ranges of

the North-West Himalayas.

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
One of a pair obtained in 1878 lived till 1884.

(217) THE INDIAN SCOP’S OWL.
(scors PENNATUS—Hodgs.)

Hab.-—India, Ceylon, Burmah, and China ; nowhere very abundant.

(218) THE SPOTTED OWLET.

(CARINE BRAMA—Temm.)

flea—Common throughout India. Does not appear to bear
captrvrty well.

(219) THE BROWN WOOD OWL.

(SYRNIUM N E WAREN SE—Eodgs.)

. Had—The Himalayas. There is no record as to the length of
time It 11ved in the garden.

(220) THE MARSH HARRIER.

(CIRCUS ERUGINOSUS—(Linn) )

HindiaTz'ka baurz’. Bengali—Mat-clzil.

Huh—Found almost all over India, including the lower ranges of
the HImalayas; It 1s Identical with the European species.
Does not appearuto bear captivity well.

(221) THE SHIKRA.

(A STUR BA DIUS—(Gmel.) )

Huh—The whole of India, extending to Ceylon, Burmah and
Malayana. ,

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens obtained in 1877 lived for more than seven years ; being
extremely common about here it is not generally exhibited.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(222) THE LONG-LEGGED EAGLE.
(AQUILA HASTATA-(Less.) )

Hindi—Guti—mar-baz.

Hab.--More common in Western Bengal than in other’parts of
India, though both the specimens exhibited in this garden were obtained
from North-Western India.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None of them survived more than fifteen months; this may be
attributed to want of suitable habitation.

(223) THE CRESTED HAWK EAGLE.

(satznarus CIRRHATUS—(Gmel.))

Hindi—Slad/zbdz.

Hab.—-Centra1 and Southern India, extending to Ceylon; the
specimen exhibited in the garden came from Orissa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From September 1882 to July 1890.

(224) THE JAPANESE HAWK EAGLE.
(erzzsrus ORIENTALIS—(Tcmm.))

Huh—Said to have been obtained from Japan.

(225) THE BLACK-CRESTED EAGLE.
(LOPHOETUS OCCIPITALIS—(Daud.) )

Description—Adult female always chocolate-brown with some of
the feathers on the back and wing coverts inclining to paler brown; head
rather darker blackish with ablack occipital crest; base of the crest
feathers and a few spots on the outer upper .tail coverts white; tail
dark brown, the base white, the others thty brown; quills dark
brown, white at base, banded with paler brown above, whitish below,
the secondaries more indistinctly, the Inner ones quite uniform with the
rest of the back; under wing coverts for the most part white, the
inner ones and the tips of the greater ones brown ; axillaries brown;
legs white, more or less washed with brownish; forehead whitish; bill
bluish; black at tip; cere pale yellow, feet light yellow; claws black;
total length 213; adult male 21 1nches.-—J. E. Gray.

Hab.-—The whole of Africa.

 

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
One of a pair obtained in 1878 lived till 1884.

(217) THE INDIAN scor’s OWL.
(SCOPS PENNATUS—Hodgs.)

Hab.—-India, Ceylon, Burmah, and China ; nowhere very abundant.

(218) THE SPOTTED OWLET.

(CARIN E BRAMA—Temm.)

firm—Common throughout India. Does not appear to bear
captIVIty well.

(219) THE BROWN WOOD OWL.

(SYRNIUM NE WARENSE~HodgsJ

. Hag-The Himalayas. There is no record as to the length of
time It lived 1n the garden.

(220) THE MARSH HARRIER.

(CIRCUS EBUGINOSUS—(Linn.) )
Hindi——Tz'lca baurz’. Bengali—Mat-clzil.

Hab.—-Found almost all over India, includin the lowe f
the Himalayas; it is identical with the European sgecies. r ranges 0
Does not appear_to bear captivity well.

(221) THE SHIKRA.

(ASTUR BA DIUS——(Gmel.) )

MalafiifaTThe whole of India, extending to Ceylon, Burmah, and

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens obtained in 1877 lived for more than 8 , .
extremely common about here it is not generally exhilgtgdl. years ’ being

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(222) THE LONG-LEGGED EAGLE.
(AQUILA HASTATA—(Less.))

Hindi—Guli—mar-baz.

Hab.—-More common in Western Bengal than in other‘parts of
India, though both the specimens exhibited in this garden were obtained
from North-Western India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None of them survived more than fifteen months; this may be
attributed to want of suitable habitation.

(223) THE CRESTED HAWK EAGLE.

(SPIZZETUS CIRRHATUS~(Gmel.))

Hindi—S/zd/zbdz.

Hab.-—-Central and Southern India, extending to Ceylon; the
specimen exhibited in the garden came from Orissa.

LENGTH OE LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From September 1882 to July 1890.

(224) THE JAPANESE HAWK EAGLE.
(SPIZETUS ORIENTALIs—(Temm.))

H a5.——Said to have been obtained from Japan.

(225) THE BLACK-ORESTED EAGLE.
(LOPHOZETUS OCCIPITALIS~(Daud.) )

Description—Adult female always chocolate-brown with some of
the feathers on the back and wing coverts Inclining to paler brown ; head
rather darker blackish with ablaok occipital crest; base of the crest
feathers and a few spots on the outer upper tail coverts white; tail
dark brown, the base white, the others whity brown; quills dark
brown, white at base, banded with paler brown above, whitish below,
the secondaries more indistinctly, the inner ones quite uniform with the
rest of the back; under wing coverts for the most part white, the
inner ones and the tips of the greater ones brown; axillaries brown;
legs White, more or less washed with brownish; forehead whitish; bill
bluish; black at tip; cere pale yellow, feet lIght yellow; claws black;
total length 218; adult male 21 inches.—-—J. E. Gray.

Hab.-—-The whole of Africa.

 

     
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
   
  
 
  
  
 
    
 
 
  
  
   

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 281

   

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One of a pair obtained in 1878 lived till 1884. (222) THE LONG-LEGGED EAGLE.

(AQUILA HASTATA-—-(Less.) )
Hindi— Guti-mar-baz.

(217) THE INDIAN SCOP’S OWL- "A Hab.-—More colnlimon in Western Bengal than in other'pgrts of
India, though both t e specimens exhibited in this garden were 0 tained
(SCOPS PENNATUS'HOJW') A from North-Western India. -

Hab.—-India, Ceylon, Burmah, and China ; nowhere very abundant.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN cartrrvrrr.

». None of them survived more than fifteen months; this may be
(218) THE SPOTTED OWLET, attributed to want of suitable habitation.

(CARIN E BRAMA——Temm.)

.Eab.—Common throughout India. Does not appear to bear
captIVIty well.

(228) THE CRESTED HAWK EAGLE.

(SPIZETUS CIRRHATUS—(Gmel.))
Hindi—Shaikbdz.

Hab.—-Central and Southern India, extending to Ceylon; the
specimen exhibited in the garden came from Orissa.

 

(219) THE BROWN woon OWL.

(SYRNIUM N E WAREN SE—-Hodgs.)

Huh—The Himalayas. There is no record as to th 1 h f
time it lived inthe garden. 9 engt o

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From September 1882 to July 1890.

(224) THE JAPANESE HAWK EAGLE.

(SPIZETUS ORIENTALIS—(Temm.) )
Huh-Said to have been obtained from Japan.

(220) THE MARSH HARRIER.

(CIRCUS ZERUGINOSUS~(Linn.) )
Hindi—Tiler: baurz’. Bengali—Mat-ckz’l.
Hab.-—Found almost all over India, including the lower ranges of

the Himalayas; it is identical with the European species.

Does not appearjo bear captivity well. (225) THE BLACK-CRESTED EAGLE.

(LOPHOETUS OCCIPITALIS—(DaudJ )

Description-Adult female always chocolate-brown with some of
the feathers on the back and wing coverts Inchmng to paler brown; head
rather darker blackish with a black occipital crest; base of the crest

(ASTUR BADIUS'"(Gmel') ) feathegs and ahfezv spots 1%? thtah 011$th ligpii‘hitt? bizzsaflts Williill: ; dtai]:

' ' krown easewe, e e 59 ar

Malagznbfi.The whole of India, extendIng to CeY10n, Burmah, and 33;“, white at base, banded with paler brown above, whitish below,
y . A A ' the secondaries more indistinctly, the inner ones quite uniform with the
rest of the back; under wing coverts for the most part white, the
inner ones and the tips of the greater ones brown; axillaries brown;
: le S white, more or less washed with browmsh; forehead whitish; bill
' ' ' ' bluish; black at tip; cere pale yellow, feet hght yellow; claws black;

Specimens obtarned In 1877 hved for more than seven years; being ’ total length 21.3; adult male 21 inches.—-J. E. Gray.
extremely common about here It is not generally exhibited. . Hab.-—The whole of Africa.

(221) THE SHIKRA.

 

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

 

   

 

 

 

 

   

282 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(226) THE CRESTED SERPENT EAGLE.

(SPILORNIS CHEELA—(Latlz.))
Ben gali— Tile baj.

Hab.-—-Found throughout India, ascending the Himalayas up to
7,000 feet; it extends as far east as China and Formosa.

(227) THE BATELEUR EAGLE.

(HELOTARSUS ECAUDATUS—(Daud.) )

Description.—-Head, which is much crested, and the entire neck all
round glossy black; hind neck and back maroon, paler on the lower
back; scapulars black; wing coverts bronzy brown; the greater coverts
blackish at the base; quills blackish, externally shaded with grey, tips
black; tail deep maroOn; care and orbits coral red; bill black; feet
coral red; adult male 21 inches; adult female larger, about 24 inches.

Hab.——Africa. '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVII‘Y.

About three years.

(228) THE WHITE-BREASTED SEA. EAGLE.

(HALIZETUS LEUCOGASTEB—(Gmel.) )

Hindi—Kohassa.

Hab.—-Found all over India; the specimens exhibited in the garden
were mostly obtained from the Sunderbuns.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A pair lived from 1876 to 1884.

(229) PALLAS’S SEA EAGLE.

(HALLETUS LEUCORYPHUS~(Pall.) )

Hindi~Mackarang. Bengali—Korul, Bald.
Hab.-—Common in Bengal and North-West India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Five to six years.

(230) THE BRAHMINY KITE.

(HALIASTER IN DUS—(Badd.) )
Bengali-~Sunker 0227.
H ab.-—-—Found throughout India.

   

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 283

       
     
     
     
    
   
 
   
    
     
       
     
      
    
     

(231) THE HOUSE KITE. ;.
(MILVUS GOVIN‘DA—Sylces.) ’

Bengali- Ghee].

. Hab.—-—Common and abundant throughout India, ascending the
Himalayas up to about 8,000 feet.
Both this and the preceding species live in a wild state within the

gardens.

(232) THE BLACK-WINGED KITE.

(ELANUS CJERULEUS—(Degftn

Desm‘ptz’on.-—The upper part grey; lores and supercilium black;
shoulders, winglet, and lesser wing coverts deep glossy black; lower
parts white ; forehead and ear coverts also white.

Hab.-—Throughout India. and greater part of Africa.

  

(233) THE PEREGRINE FALCON.

(FALCO PEREGRINUS—(Tunst.) )
Hindi—By/zrz'.

Hab.-——Europe and North Asia; found in India during the cold
weather only ; the bird is, however, well known in Bengal.

   
 
  

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A. specimen obtained in 1877 lived till the end of 1884, when,
haxlrling accidentally injured itself, it had to be killed; it bears captivity
we .

   

 
     
 

(234) THE sHAHIN FALCON.

(FALCO PEREGRINATOR—(Sundev.))
Hindi——Slzalzin.

‘ Hab.——Found throughout the whole of India from the Himalayas
’ to the extreme south of India, extending through Afghanistan to
Western Asia.

   
 
  
   
 

(235) THE LUGGAR FALCON.

(FALCO JUGGER~1 E. Gray.)
Hindi and Bengali—Laggkur.
Heb.» Common throughout India.

  
  
 

     

A HAN D-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record: known to bear captivity well.

(236) THE SACER, OR CHERUG FALCON.

(FALCO SACER—Gmel.)
Hindi— Chargk.

Hab.—-South-East EurOpe, Western Asia, and rarely Himalayas ;
during the cold weather it is also found in other parts of India.
There is no record of the length of life.

(237) THE INDIAN HOBBY.

(FALCO SEVERUS—Horsf)

Hindi-Dhater.

Huh—Himalayas, extending through Assam to Burmah, Malayan
Peninsula, Java, and the Philippines ; not uncommon in the vicinity of
Calcutta during the cold weather.

(238) THE KESTRIL.

(TIN N UNCULUS ALAUDARINUS-(Linn.) )

Hindi~Narzanak. Bengali—.8472

Huh—The whole of Europe and Northern Asia, migrating in
winter into North China, the Indian peninsula, and North-East Africa;
occasionally wandering into Western and Southern Africa and the

Seychelles—J. E. Gray.
During the cold weather it is common in the neighbourhood of

Calcutta, and even within the gardens.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Over eight years.

(239) THE RED-FOOTED FALCON.

(TINNUNCULUS VESPERTINUS—(Linn.))
Bah—Eastern and Southern Europe.

LENGTH or LIFE OF CAPTIVITY.

A few months only.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(240) THE BRAZILIAN CARACARA.

(POLYBORUS BRAZILIENSIS—(Gmel.) )

Descm'ptz'on.-—The crown of head crested, and of a greyish brown
colour; sides of the face and neck buffy white, barred with narrow
black lines; back, rump, and upper tail coverts dark brown, with
narrow white bars; tail buffy white, with a broad brown band at the
tip, and the lower part beautifully adorned with brown cross bars '
neck and breast white with distinct dark coloured cross bars° the
lower breast and abdomen blackish brown; the feathers of the lower
breast with whitish margin; bare crop patch yellow; cere and
bare space round the eye carmine brown, tinged yellow; bill horny
blue; feet yellow; total length about 23 inches.

Hab.-—-LaPlata, Patagonia, the deserts between the rivers Negro
and Colorado, West Patagonia, and Terra del Fuego.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

11 A single specimen obtained in September 1879 is still alive and
we .

(241) THE LONG-BILLED VULTURE.
(GYPS IN DICUS—(Scop.) )

(242) THE INDIAN WHITE-BACKED VULTURE.
(GYPS BEN GALEN SIS-(07nd) )

.Poth the above vultures have occasionally been exhibited while
awaiting transmission to other gardens.

(243) THE WHITE SCAVENGER VULTURE.

(N EOPHRON GINGIN IAN ITS—(Latin) )
Hindi—Kdl-moorgk.

Bah—Found throughout the greater part of India b t
common in Central and N orthern- India; it is somewhat cdlmnfig
in Behar, extending as far east as Deoghur and Madhupore in the
Sonthal Pergunnahs, and occasionally in Lower Bengal.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—Most of these birds do better sin 1 or in a'
accommodationshould be provided accordingly; on gtlxife otherphgrsidfmig
a house measuring 40’ x 15’ and 19’ high as many as fifteen falcons and

 

286 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS '

eagles have been observed to live peacefully. The Brazilian cara-cara,
which has lived so long and well, has always been kept singly, in a
tolerably large cage, where it can move about freely : though generally
hardy birds, exposure to draughts and rain has been known to cause
inflammation of the lungs in some of them. Owls generally do not
object to live together, but care should always be taken to eliminate
bad tempered birds; dark corners or retiring boxes should be
provided; the vultures should always be kept by themselves, as they
are generally quarrelsome and obtrusive. The house or cage should be
thoroughly cleaned every day.

Feeding.——They are all carnivorous, and as a rule are fed upon beef,
frogs, fish, and sometimes rats, in captivity; meat should be given
with pieces of bones attached, as they enjoy picking the bones clean,
especially the Brazilian cara-cara, hobby, and some other Species: com-
mon grass snakes may, now and then, be given to the crested serpent
eagle; Pallas’s sea eagles also enjoy snakes in addition to fish and small
turtles and crabs. A. small bird is bonne beache to most of them, and
should occasionally be given. A quantity of shingles or small stones
should be kept strewn about the floor of their cages; they swallow these,
especially after feasting upon a bird, and after some time eject them
with the feathers of the bird sticking around: all should have ready
access to drinking-water.

Transport—For exportation, tame birds that have lived for some
timde indcaptivity should be preferred, and each bird separately accom-
mo ate .

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Owls are proverbially grave and sedate birds, and, as is well known,
like hiding themselves in dark corners; if tame, they take no notice of
anybody approaching the cage, but sit perfectly motionless, staring
with dazed wild look; the quivering of the mandibles, which is now
and then visible, signifies displeasure; quite different, however, is the
manner of an owl that has not become reconciled to captivity; it will
instantly fly against the side of the cage farthest from the intruder,
ruffle its plumage, clatter its bill and hiss repeatedly. All the birds
of prey are more or less self-possessed when tame, but such as have
not yet become reconciled to captivity, look scared and confused, and
flutter themselves to death on the cage being approached; except at
feeding time, none of them are ever observed on the ground; they
sit without stirring, on a perch, the whole day and night; the same
bird has been observed to occupy the same spot of a particular perch
as long as it lived in this garden. Owls are never heard to call during
the day; some falcons call at night only.

(244) THE SPOONBILL.

(PLATALEA LEUCORODIA—Limz.)

Hindi— Chamuclz bum. Bengali——— Chinta or 8am.

The characteristic feature of the bird is its broad, flat, and
depressed bill, like a spatula.

1N carrrvrrv IN LOWER BENGAL. 287

Bah—Europe, Asia, and Africa ; scarce in Lower Bengal ; some-
what common in Upper India during the winter.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Spoonbills at one time did not thrive in this garden; latterly a
specimen became reconciled to captivity; it completely cast off its old
dirty feathers, and looked lively and gay in its new plumage.‘

(245) THE PELICAN IBIS.
(TANTALUS LEUCOCEPHALUS~F0rstJ

Hindi-Janghal. Bengali-Ram Jhankar or Sana Jangha.

During the latter end of the rains it loses much of the rosy red
tint of its tertiaries, reassuming it again in the spring ; the young birds
are generally of a brownish grey colour. .

Huh—India, Burmah, and Ceylon.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens living since 1883.

(246) THE SHELL IBIS.

(ANASTOMUS OSCITANS-(Bodd.) )
Hindi—Gungla, Gkongal. Bengali-Shamukbhanga.
Hula—Particularly abundant in Northern Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

This species has not unfortunately done well in this garden, none
having survived more than a few months.

(247) THE BLACK-BEADED IBIS.

(IBIS MELANOCEPHALUS—Linn.)

Description—Head and neck nude, and black; the rest of the
plumage white; the bare skin of the wing-bone beneath pinkish red,
which is visible when the bird is on the wing; bill long, slender, curved,
and channelled.

Hab.——It is met with over the greater part of India and Ceylon,
the Indo-Burmese countries, Southern China, Siam, Cochin China,
the Malay peninsula, Sumatra, Java, and Borneo.—-0ates. For this
garden specimens have chiefly been obtained from Dinagepore in

Northern Bengal, and Arracan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living upwards of ten years.

 

"‘ After having lived over me years it met with an accidental death.

 

    

288 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(248) THE BLACK IBIS.

(INOCOTIS PAPILLOSUS—(Temm.) )

Hindi-Buss.

Descriptionr—The colouring of the upper part. of the body fuscous
brown ; upper tail coverts black; wings steel blue With purple. reflex10n;
a patch of white on the lesser wing coverts; lower parts blacklsh brown;
the head black, with a patch of red papillae on the back of the head.

Bah—Found throughout the greater part of India.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have now and then been exhibited in the garden, but
there is no record of the period during which any of them lived.

(249) THE GLOSSY IBIS.
(PLEGADIS FALCINELLUS—(Linn.))

Hindi—Kawari or Kowar.

The bronze metallic lustre of the plumage is most noticeable during

the breeding season. . .
Bah—It has a wide range of distribution, being found throughout

Asia, Australia, North Africa, and south of Europe; cemmon in India
during the cold weather.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A few have been living since 1880.

(250) THE SCARLET IBIS.

(EUDOCIMUS RUBER~Linn.)
Of an uniform scarlet colour.
Hub.——South Amenca.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A specimen lived from July 1880 to August 1888.

(251) THE FLAMINGO.

(PHZENICOPTERUS ANTIQUORUM—Temm.)

Hindi——H ans or Bag-ham. Bengali—Kant/mntz'.

Its long neck and legs, and the bent down bill, are very character-
istic; the extent and intensity of the rosy red colour of the head, back,
tail and the wing coverts vary somewhat in difierent specimens; the
colouring of the females is generally subdued; the young birds are

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 289'

dusky white, and do not assume the adult plumage till after the first
moult; .a specimen is known to be living in captivity for the last few
years WIthout assuming the adult plumage ; flamingos vary in size.

. . Huh—Europe, North Africa, and greater part of Asia; in India
1t 18 found throughout the country- rarer in some parts, abundant in
others: In the south, common about Madras, and in the Pulicat and
Chilka lakes, in Northern India, the Sambhur lake appears to be their
head-quarters; rarely found in Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although one or two of them have lived for over five years, as
a rule they have not flourished in this garden. The younger specimens

appear to . bear captivity better than the adult birds, which generally
plus and die.

(252) THE PURPLE HERON.
(ARDEA PURPUREA—Linn.)

Hindi—Nari. Bengali—13d! Anjan, Ldl Kank.

. Hubs-Europe, Asia, and Africa; in India, Burmah, and Ceylon it
1s commonly met WIth in wet and marshy tracts. -

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Upwards of seven years.

(253) THE COMMON HERON.

(ARDEA CINEREAwLinn.)
Hindi—Kabud, Kin/rd. Bengali—Anjan.
Huh—Found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have occasionall been exhibited, but it does t
to bear captivity well. y '10 appear

(254) THE LARGE WHITE EGRET..

(HERODIAS ALBA—41323271.) )

Hindi—Malling Bagla. Bengali——.Dlzan bale or Bagla.

The most characteristic feature of this species is its beautiful,
decomposed, and soft train feathers which it assumes during the breed-
ing season; the colour of the bill and the facial skin changes according
to the season of the year, being respectively black and bright green
during the breeding season, and yellow at other times.

T

290 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

0bservatz'rm.~——A specimen has been known in the summer not to
assume the full breeding plumage, or the usual bright green of the facial
skin ; this may have been dueto old age, or impaired health, consequent
u on an accident which it had sustained resulting in the compound

fracture of its left leg.
Hab.——Found throughout India and Ceylon; scarce in Lower

Bengal.

LENc'rH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

A specimen has been living in the garden since April 1879; this
does not represent the length of its captivit , as prior to its inclusion
in this collection it lived for some years in the Viceroy’s menagerie at

Barrackpore.
(255) THE LESSER EGRET.
(HEBODIAS INTERMEDIA-T’an Haas.)
Bah—Found throughout India and Ceylon, and extends through
Burmah to Malayana.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

only a few months.

(256) THE CATTLE EGRET.
(BUBULCUS COROMANDUS~(Bodd.))
Hindi—Gai-bagla. Bengali—dials.

Very common in Bengal. -
Hab.-—India, Burma‘h, and Ceylon; it also inhabits Southern China,

Cochin China, and extends through the Malayan peninsula to Java,
Borneo, Celebes, and the Philippine Islands. Found in a wild state

within the garden.

(257)- THE POND HERON.
(ARDEOLA GRAYI-(Sykes.) )
Hindi-Andi“; bagla (223., blind heron) ; the Paddy-bird of Europeans.

Hab.--Most abundant everywhere in India.
Found in a'wild state within the garden.

(258) THE BLUE BITTERN.

cAEDEIEALLA ELAVICOLLIS~(LatIc.))

Hindi and Bengali—La! bogla.

. Hebe-Found throughout the greater part of India, Ceylon; also
said to occur in China and Malayana.

 

3
5

 

 

1N CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 291

(259) THE CHESTNUT BITTERN.

(ARDETTA CINNAMO‘MEA—~(Gmel.) )
Hindi and Bengali—Ldl-bagla.

Huh—Judie, Ceylon, Burmah th A ' ' ‘
Malayan peninsula, Java, and the Philippinesfldaman Islands, 01mm,

(260) THE LITTLE YELLOW BITTERN.

(ARDETTA SINENSIs—(Gmem

Bengali—Kat~bogla.

E’b-"Jndia. Burmah, Ce Ion, the M 1 -
of the islands of the Malayan grchipelago. a ayan peninsula, and some

(261)“ THE NIGHT HERON.

A (NYCTIARDEA NYCTICORAX—(Limz.) )

Bengalinowa-dauk.
The young birds have no occipital plumes. This s ecies is readil
glistlnguished from the herons by its short neck and tar’siis, and'thick-se’t
orm.
_ Helm—Europe, Africa North America, and Asia ' in I d' '
18 found throughout the ,coun-try, extending througli Burial? (:1:
Malayana.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen livedtcver ten years in this garden.

. (262) THE ADJUTANT.

(LEPTOPTILUS ARGALA—(Lath) )
Hindi and Bengaliuflar—gz'la.
% ebomriicg andBwell-known bird in Bengal.
. a .—- n ia, urmah the Malayan peninsula Siam C ’
China, Sumatra, Java, and ,Borneo. ’It is not so common in’Calbtiiltt:

as it used to be some twenty years ago ' it is mostl se ’ '
. . y . Q '
the wet weather, becoming scarce at the approach of the {vintei}. during

LENGTH or LIFE IN carrrvrrr.

Appears to bear captivity well; although some of them h
noticed to pine and die within a few days of their capture, 83038:):
:hpm hve contentedly and well until they are sent off to other insti-
u ions. - «

.2'

 

 

292 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS g :

(263) THE LESSER ADJ UTANT.

(LEPTOPTILUS J AVANICUS—(Hor.gf'.) )
Hindi~0handiari, Bang-gar. Bengali—Madan-tz‘ki.

Top of the head entirely bald and' horny ; a large white neck
ruff covers the sides of the neck and breast. \
Hab.--India, Burmah, and the Malayan peninsula; in India they ’
are nowhere abundant, but more common in Assam and Sylhet than in (
Upper Provinces; rarely found in Lower Bengal.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY;

About six years.

(264) THE BLACK-NEGKED STORK.

(XENORHYNCHUS ASIATICUS—(Lath.) )
Hindi—Lohajang. Bengali-Ram salik.

.Description.——Head and neck glossy black with green and purple
reflexions; middle and greater coverts, tertiaries, and the tail also glossy
black with greenish reflexions; rest of the plumage white ; bill black ;

irides brown; legs red; the young birds are grey. ,}
Hab.-—-Found in India and Burmah, extending through the -§ ,

Malayan _ peninsula to Australia; in India it is common in Central

India and Lower Bengal. ’

[LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have lived for more than eight years. |\

(265) THE WHITE-NECKED sronx.

(DISSURA EPISCOPUS—(Bodd.) )
Hindi and Ben gali-Mam‘ltjor.

Very common in Bengal. ‘
Huh—India, Burmah, Ceylon, and extends through the Malayan

peninsula to the islands of the Indian Archipelago.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
The species appear to bear captivity well, as some of them obtained
in 1880 are still alive and well.

(266) THE WHITE STORK.

(CICON IA ALBA-(Liam) )

Hindi—Lag. lag, Dhak.
Entirely white with the exception of the scapulars, quills, and the
greater wing coverts, which are black; bill and legs red. »

 

 

 

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Photo etching,

 

 

'IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 293

Had-Europe, Asia, and Africa; it' visits India during the cold
weather only, and is then common in the N orth-Western- Provinces and
the Deccan; not known to have been found in Lower Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A few have been living since 1883.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH

The spoonbill, ibis, flamingo, heron, adjutant and stork require,
with slight variations, identical treatment With respect to housing and
feeding, and are therefore grouped together. .

Housing.——The accommodation for animals in captivity should be
as close an imitation of their wild haunts as it is possible to provide.
The various wading birds mentioned above should therefore have an
area of a large tank or lake, with gently sloping and well turfed banks,
set apart for them; for the adj utants, storks, flamingos, and even for
the spoonbill, a light enclosure, about four feet high, is enough; but
the ibises, herons, egrets, &c., require a covered space (see under
ducks andgeese, p. 306). Like most other animals in captivity, many of
these birds sometimes exhibit great jealousy at the introduction of a
stranger amongst them, and do not cease to worry it until it is
removed; the large egret and the black—necked stork have been found
to be the“ greatest culprits in this respect; some of the wading birds
may have to be exhibited in other places, with shallow tanks built in
the floor, which, though good in themselves, can never be as comfort-
able for them as the bank of a tank or lake ; such places are, however,
particularly adapted for the night herons, as affording concealment
and solitude during the day. In order to prevent the storks and
adjutants, &c., which are kept simply in an enclosure, from flying away,
their wings require to be clipped periodically, but the most practical
and simplest method of doing it once for all is to remove the first
joint of one wing and cauterise the stump.

Food.——-In their wild state the spoonbill feeds on aquatic insects,
small crustacea and molluscs, frogs and fish, and as most of them are
easily obtainable, no difficulty need be experienced in feeding it; the
specimen now living in the collection is fed upon prawns and small
fish. and does not object to take minced meat occasionally. The pelican
ibis finds a great deal of its own food by frequently stirring up by its
right foot the mud at the bottom of the water near the edge of a tank,
and seizing and devouring crabs, frogs or fish that it may chance to find;
but in addition to this a small quantity of meat and fish may be
daily supplied to each of them. The shell ibis is rather a difficult
bird to find food for in captivity, as it chiefly lives upon molluscs;
it has never yet thrive‘n in this garden, and therefore nothing can be
confidently said about it. The black-headed, glossy, and scarlet ibises
thrive on minced meat, small fish and prawns; those that have become
tame greedily devour bits of bread and biscuit thrown to them;
they also search and find a great deal of their own food, consisting of
aquatic insects, frogs and molluscs. The herons and storks also live
upon fish and meat; the adj utants and the black-necked storks are

 

 

   

294 A HAND—BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS
chiefly fed upon the latter; most of the storks are destructive to
snakes, but in captivity the white-necked stork, or the “maniclgjor,”
has been particularly noticed to kill and devour common grass
snakes (Tm'pz’donotus stolatus) on many occasions, and once a young
cobra. The food of the flamingos in captivity consists of bran
and barley (bajmlz) mixed with water; some of them also become
accustomed to, and thrive on, boiled rice; like the pelican ibis, they also
search for food by stirring up the mud at the edge of the tank, and
much of the success in keeping them depends upon the place where
they can have opportunities of finding their own .food. .

Breeding.——None of these birds have ever bred in captivity, but for
the last few years large numbers of egrets have been regularly breeding
in a wild state within the garden, selecting for this purpose a large
island overgrown with trees, shrubs. and undergrowths.

Transpm‘t.——Flamingos and black—necked storks are sometimes
vary cruelly treated during the transit by rail, lasting sometimes for
two or three days; their legs are bent and drawn up under the body,
and a piece of gunny or old canvas tied round the whole; the practice
is most reprehensible.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

A healthy spoonbill is an active, playful bird, and fond of exhibit-
ing its amusing antics; the movement of its bill sideways, when feed»-
ing, is very noticeable. The pelican ibis is sometimes heard to clatter
its long and strong mandibles at night; its method of searching food
has already been noticed. The shell ibis has unfortunately been found
to be listless and morose, perhaps from want of suitable food. The
black—headed, glossy and scarlet ibises become wonderfully tame in a
short time, and are very inquisitive; they pass a great deal of their
time, in the morning and evening, in searching for their own food in
shallow water, but when not otherwise employed they roost on perches.
The herons and egrets are quarrelsome birds; the storks and the
pelican ibises have a very comical way of spreading out their wings
after a-morning ablution. The flamingos move with wonderful swift-
ness and ease across water, from one end of a tank to another, using the
wings for support and the legs for motion, and although the whole
movement is most rapidly performed, each stroke of the foot is dis-
tinctly heard. The storks have sometimes haen observed to treat a stick
or a twig like a snake: it holds the object between the mandibles and
beats it 1n the same manner as it does a snake.

(267) THE LARGE CORMORANT.

(PHALACROCORAX CARBO—(LinnJ )

Hindi— Giro-gar. Pant-karat.

In captivity they do not assume their breeding plumage regularly.

Hab.-.-—Eur0pe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. The range of its distri-
bution is said to extend also to North America. Not very common in
Lower Bengal, and rare in ' south of India; more abundant in N orth-
West India, and in the rivers of the Himalayas.

 

 

 

 
       

4
.9

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER EENdAL. 295

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

One of a pair obtained in 1887 is still alive; prior to its inclusion
in this collection it lived for some years in the menagerie of the late
King of Oudh.

(268) THE LITTLE CORMORANT.

(PHALACROCORAXEPYGMEUS ~(Pall.) )

Bengali-Pan~Icowti.

Hahn-South‘East Europe, Northern Africa, and Southern Asia,
extending to the islands of the Malayan Archipelago. Found through-
out India, and extremely common in Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Very hardy and bears captivity well; no record kept of the period
during which any of them have lived.

(269) THE INDIAN SNAKE-BIRD.

(PLOTUS MELANOGASTE R—-(Gmcl.))
Hindi—Banana. Bengali~Goyar.

The long snake-like neck is the most characteristic feature of this
bird, which is well known in Lower Bengal.

Huh—India, Ceylon, Burmah, Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, Java,
Borneo, and the Celebes; very common in the rivers and swamps of
Eastern and Northern Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly seven years.

(270) THE SPOTTED-BILLED PELIGAN.
(PELECANUS MANILLENSIS~(Gmel.))

Pelicans are designated howasil in Hindi, and gagan-b/zer in
Bengali, without any specific distinction being recognized. The
prevailing colour of the plumage of this species is grey.

Hab.—-—Greater part of India, Cefrlon, Burmah, Malayan peninsula,
Java, Borneo, and the Philippine slands; the specimens obtained for
this collection mostly came from Eastern Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

None have yet lived fer more than four years.

 

.. ., .. nodu-vw—«uwm‘wl.'u .

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(271) THE LESSER WHITE PELICAN.
(PELECANUS JAVANICUS—(Horsf.))

(272) THE MITRED PELICAN.

(PELECANUS MITRATUSoLicht.)

The lesser white and mitred pelicans have been identified to belong
to the same species.

The characteristic feature of the species is that the females only
have the crest.

Hab.-—-India, Burmah, the Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, Java,
Borneo, and the Philippines.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Upwards of seven years.

(273) THE GREY LAG GOOSE.
(AN SER CINEREUS-Meyer.)

Hindi—Hans or Karhans.

lehe Species Varies somewhat in size and colouring of the plumage
and i1.

Huh—A cold weather visitant to India, being found during the
winter throughout the whole of Upper India; rarely met with in
Bengal. It is found throughout Europe.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1882.

(274) THE BARRED-HEADED GOOSE.

(ANSER INDIOUS—(Lath.))

It is readily distinguished from other geese by the presence of two
black bars on the occiput and nape.

Hab.~--India and Burmah in the winter, apd Central Asia in
summer. It has been received from the following places in India :—
Lucknow, Monghyr, Ohota N agpore, Purneah, Dacca, and Nuddea.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Living since 1882.

(275) THE CHINESE GOOSE.
(ANSER CYGNOIDES-—(Linn.))

Resembles the tame goose of Bengal, but larger, with a black bill,
and orange fleshy legs and feet.
Hab.-— China; probably found in Assam also.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(276) THE BLACK AND WHITE GOOSE.

(ANS ERA'NAS ME LAN OLEUCA—Less.)
Huh—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Since January 1882.

(277) THE COTTON TEAL.
(N ETTAPUS COROMANDELIANUS-Gmel.)
Hindi—Girja, or Gz‘rri. Bengali-Belia—kans, Gizange-rel.

There is no white patch in the primaries of the female, which is
smaller and duller in colouring.

Huh—Abundant in the deltas of the Ganges and Brahmaputra;
also found in many other parts of India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

None has yet lived for more than five months.

(278) THE CANADA GOOSE.
(BERNICLA CANADENSIS—(Linn.))

The characteristic feature Of this species is its black head and neck,
with a broad patch of white spreading from the neck over the checks on
each side.

Huh-North America.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
1879 to 1885.

(279) THE UPLAND GOOSE.
(BERNICLA DISPAR—Ph. el. Landb.)

A female exhibited in the garden had its head and neck coloured
cinnamon-brown; abdomen lighter brown and barred with black; upper
back also barred; rump and tail feathers dark brownish. Head vulture.

like.
Hab.--Chi1i and Argentina.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A little over one month; it lived for about a year in a private
menagerie.

 

 

 

 

298 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(280) THE BLACK sWAN.

(CYGN US ATRATUS—Lath.)

The prevailing colour of the plumage black; quill feathers white;
the tips of the tertiaries curled up.
Hab.-—Australia.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY. ’

Since February 1882. p

(281) THE MUTE SWAN.

(CYGNUS OLOR—(Gmcl.) )

Individuals of both sexes difier in size, but the males are always
larger than the females; the female has no tubercle at the base of the
upper mandible, or a very small one; it has also less black about the
bill, and the neck is very slender; the immature birds of both sexes
are greyish brown or grey, and the males have no tubercle: they take
about two years to assume their adult white plumage.

Bah—Found throughout Europe, extending during the winter
to Northern Africa, Egypt, and Asia Minor, and as far east as Western

India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Living since 1880.

(282) THE BLACK-NECKED SWAN.

(CYGNUS N IGRICOLLIS~(Gmel.) )
Hab.—-Antarctic America.

(283) THE NUKHTA, OR COMB DUCK.

(SARCIDIORNIS MELANONorA—(Fmt.))

Hindi—Nuklzta.

The size of the fleshy protuberance of the bill is much reduced
during the non—breeding season; the females have no comb.

Hab.——Central and Western India, Ceylon, British Burmah; rare
in Bengal, although specimens have now- and then been received from

Rungpore and Serajgunge.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Very hardy, and flourish well in captivity here.

 

neighbourhood of Calcutta and in other places in Lower

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 299

(284) THE LARGER WHISTLING TEAL.

(DENDROCYGNA FULVA—(Gmel.) )
Hindi—Sim. Bengali—Murgkabz’.

It resembles the next species in general appearance, but is larger

and brighter in colouring.

Hab.—-India, Burmah, Madagascar, &c. ; frequentlg found in the
engal.

There is no record of its length of life in captivity.

(285) THE LESSER WHISTLING TEAL.

(DENDROCYGNA JAVANICA—(Horgfifl

Hindi~8illmki, Salli. Bengali—Sam]. Sorez‘l and Harih‘Jzans in
Eastern Bengal. ~«

Hab.-—India, Burmah, Siam, the Malay eninsula, Sumatra,
Java, and Borneo; it also occurs in Ceylon and) the Andaman and
Nicobar Islands. ' In some parts of the country it is a seasonal visitant,
but ii others a permanent resident; large flocks of them are met with
in the swampy tracts of Lower Bengal during the cold weather. "

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It is not improbable that some of the birds obtained in 1879 are
still alive.

(286) THE RED-BILLED TREE DUCK.

(DEN DROCYGNA AUTUMNALIS-(Linn.) )

General colour of the plumage rufous brown; bill brick red.
Hahn—America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Living since 1884.

(287) THE WHITE-FACED TREE DUCK.

(DEN DROCYGNA VIDUATA—(Linn.) )

The prevailing colour of the plumage dark brown; face white.
Hab.—-Africa and South America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly five years. ,

   

 

 

 
 
  

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

        
 

 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 

    

A HANDvBOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(288) THE BRAHMINY DUCK.

(TADORNA CASARCA-(Linn.))

Hindi—Surk/zab. Bengali—Ohaka-chaki. Boogri in Eastern Bengal.

In captivity the seasonal black collar of the neck sometimes dis-
appears permanently, or only a trace becomes visible at the breeding
season. '

Hab.——Central Asia, Persia, Mes0potama, Asia Minor, the entire
northern portions of Africa, and India, in many parts of which they are
most abundant during the cold weather.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It has never done well in this garden, none having yet lived for
more than four years.

(289) THE COMMON SHELDRAKE.

(TADORNA VULPENSER—(Fleming.))
Hindi-Shah-chakwa, Sufaid-eurklzab. ,.

Description.——Head and neck black with greenish reflexions;
scapulars and primaries black; greater coverts bronze green; outer webs
of some of the secondaries orange brown; .the rest of the plumage
white; a broad band of ferruginous brown encircles the breast, shoulders,
and upper back; bill red; irides brown; legs fleshy red. The colouring
of the female is much subdued, and it also wants the pectoral band.

Hab.—-—Found throughout Europe, the greater part of Asra, and
Northern Africa. In India, nowhere very common and quite unknown
in the south. The specimens obtained for the garden were all obtained

f the Men h district. . . . .
romThere is go 3i‘lecord of its length of life In capt1v1ty.

(290) THE WILD DUCK.
(ANAS BosoAs—Lm.)
Hindi-Nils”.

. ~' chm—Head and neck emerald green, very deep or nearly
blackpzbgliftthe forehead; a white collar round the neck; chest dark
chestnut; abdomen and sides greyish white, With finely undulated
brown lines; an elongated patch of blue on the Wings; the central
feathers of the tail curled upwards; bill pale greenish yellow; legs orange.
The female is smaller than the male, and of a brown colour of different

ShadThe white collar of the neck is sometimes very indistinct behind.
Hab.-——Europe and Asia. Found throughout the year in Kashmir,
but it is a cold weather visitant to other parts of India, where It 13

generally common in the North-West.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 301

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen obtained in March 1878 lived for about a year only.
The wild duck is the origin of the domestic duck, of which several
breeds have from time to time been exhibited.

(291) THE AUSTRALIAN WILD DUCK.

(AN AS SUPERCILIOSA~Gm6lJ
Hab.——Australia.

(292) THE SPOTTED-BILLED DUCK.
(ANAS PGECILORHYNCHA—Penn.)

Hindi~ Gammpaz', Gagral.

The males are slightly larger than the females. In other respects
they look very much alike, except thatin adult males the colour of the
legs 1s Intense coral red, whereas in the females it is very dull; in
younger specimens of both sexes the legs are orange yellow; the base
of the upper mandible is coloured red, and the nail and a small patch
of the lower mandible bright yellow. Adult males in captivity have
sometimes been found to want the red at the base of the upper
mandible.

Huh—India, Burmah, and Ceylon ; outside India it extends as far
west as Afghanistan and as far east as China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1882.

(293) THE PINK-BEADED DUCK.

(RHODON ESSA CARYOPHYLLACEA—(Lath.) )

Hindi—~Lalsird. Bengali-Saknal.

The colouring of the plumage in both sexes diff '
different individuals, irrespective of season. ers much In
Hats—India. Mr. Hume considers Behar and the rest of B
north of the Ganges and west of the Brahmaputra as its head-quaretgggi

he includes the Nepal and Oudh Terai, the central and eastern '

of Oudh, the Benares Division of the N orth-Western Provingggt 1&1:
whole of the rest of Bengal, Assam, and Manipur, and the East Coast
littoral as far south as Madras, within its normal range, throughout
which it is, except in certain isolated localities, very rare. Specimens
exhibited in the garden have mostly been obtained from Pumeah
and Bhagulpore.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About six years.

 

 

 

 

302 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(294) THE COMMON TEAL.

(QUERQUEDULA CRECCA——(Linn.))

Hindi—Murglzabz’. Bengali—Bay's}
The ground colour of the plumage is subject to much variation;
some specimens, especially the females, have no spots at all.
Hab.-—-—Europe, Asia, North Africa, China, 8w. In India it is very
common everywhere during the cold weather.

(295) THE GARGANEY, OR THE BLUE-WINGED TEAL.
(QUERQUEDULA CIRGIA—-(Linn.) )

Hindi—Palarz‘. Bengali-Gz'rz'a.
The colour of the sides of the head has been found to vary from

pinkish white to greyish brown.
Hab.——Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is less abundant in India

than the common teal.
No record has been kept of their length of life in captivity.

(296) THE PIN-TAILED DUCK.

(DAFILA ACUTA-(Linn.))

Hindi—Sink-par. Bengali—DzTg-lzans. Sholoncho in East Bengal.

Length of the tail varies considerably among the males ; their
plumage also becomes much changed during the rains, so that a male
can hardly be distinguished from a female.

Hair—Europe, Asia, and Africa. In India it is found in every
part of the country during the cold weather.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since. 1886. This is long enough time
for a pin-tail’s life in captivity here, as it is one of those ducks that leave
the country early and migrate very far to the north during the
summer.

(297) THE WIDGEON.

(MERECA PEN ELOPE-(LinnJ )

“ The conspicuous, broad, more or less speckly black band, down
the middle of the throat, sometimes extending the whole front of the
neck,” which is said to be generally present in the males, has
often been observed to be wanting in those exhibited in this garden; the
creamy bufi patch on the forehead appears to be a constant character
in mature birds.

Hab.—-—Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Atlantic coasts of North
America. During the winter it is found throughout the greater part
of India, but nowhere very abundant. .

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGALS} 303

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CArrIvITY.
Over six years.

{J ,9 ' (298) THE GADWELL.
‘ (CHAULELASMUS STREPERUS~(Linn.) )
‘ Hindi—Jim. Bengali—Peeing-hans.
Hab.—-Europe, Asia and North America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

l Specimens obtained in February 1877 disappeared in April.

(299) THE SHOVELLER.
(SPATULA CLYPEATA (Linn.))

Hindi——Tokurwalla. Bengali—~Panta-mukhi.

No females have ever been exhibited in this garden.
Hab.—-—Europe, Asia, North Africa, Sac. Very widely distributed
in India during‘the cold weather.

(300) THE. SUMMER DUCK.
(EX SPONSA—(LinnJ)

Descrz'ptz’on.—-Forehead dull grey; crown pale creamy and tufted;

patches of black on the sides of the head and neck ; throat and neck

, white; general colour of the plumage brown; primaries, rump, and

tail coverts black; legs and feet slaty; bill black, extremity orange;
v‘ total length about 22 inches.
. Hab.—-North America.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About six years.

(301) THE MANDARIN DUCK.

(EX GALERICULATA~(Linn.))

Desm'ptz'on.-—-This duck is readily distinguished from all others by
its gorgeous plumage, the arrangement of some of which is also fantastic.
The forehead of the adult male is deep green ; crown and back Of the
head chestnut ; feathers of the crest deep bluish green ; back of the neck,
back, wing coverts, rump, and upper tail coverts olive ; lower part
of the neck and sides of the breast deep chestnut, immediately behind
which are irregular black and white bands ; the inner web of the inner
secondary is developed into fan shape: it is. coloured red and edged with
black and white lines; the outer web rich blue; the flanks pale reddish
brown, becoming much paler towards the extremity of the feathers
and transversely rayed with irregular lines of black; under surface
pure white. The female is a sober-coloured, ordinary looking bird;

 

 

304 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

head, neck, and crest dark brownish slaty grey; transverse lines down
the sides of the upper mandible; a circle round the eye and continued
to the sides of the head and chin, white.

Hab.—-—China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

While some have proved hardy and borne captivity well, others
never recover from the dilapidated condition in which they arrive.
Specimens have been living since 1886.

(302) THE CRESTED DUCK.

(FULIGULA CRISTATA—Ray.)

Hindi-Dubam ablac.

The length and thickness of the tuft vary somewhat in different
individuals; irides golden yellow.

Hab.——Europe and Asia. In India it is common in Central and
Southern India during the cold weather.

(303) THE WHITE—EYED POOHARD.

(FULIGULA NYROCA-(Gmd.))

Ben gali—Bkutz' Imus.

Even in perfectly adult birds the irides have been found to be
brownish grey or greyish white.

Hab.-—‘—Europe, Africa, and Asia ; during the winter it is common
throughout the greater part of India, including Lower Bengal.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living upwards of seven years.

(304) THE RED-CRESTED DUCK.

(BRANTA RUFINA—(Pall.) )

Hindi—La! Conch. Bengali—Hero-hans, Ofiobra-hans.

Hab.—- Southern Europe, Algiers in Northern Africa, Eastern and
Western Turkistan, Persia, India, &o.
Never have done well in captivity here.

(305) THE RED-HEADED POCHARD.

(AY'I‘HYA FERINA—(Linn.) )

Bengali—La! Mariya.

Pochards with pink irides are not uncommon.

Hab.—-—Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa. In India it “ occurs as
a cold—season migrant to the northern two-thirds of the Empire.”

Does not bear captivity well.

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(306) THE EIDER DUCK.

(SOMATEBIA MOLLISSIMA—(Linn.) )
Huh—Europe and Northern Asia; it seldom visits India.
A specimen lived for a few days only.

(307) THE BROWN-BEADED GULL.

(LARUS BRUN N CEIEPHALUS—Jerd.)

Hindi-Pani—kawa, or water crow in Bengal.

Hab.—-Found in the sea-coasts throughout the greater part of India;
they also occur far inland, and specimens have sometimes been obtained

from Northern Bengal.

LENGTH or LIFE 1N CAPTIVITY.

Bear captivity well; specimens have lived upwards of seven years.

(308) THE GREAT BLACKHEADED GULL.
(KROIKOCEPHALUS ICHTHYETUS—(PallJ)

The only specimen ever obtained came from Goalundo in Furreed-
pore. ~ v p

(309) THE LARGE (SWALLow PLOVER, on THE
EASTERN PRATINCOLE.
(GLAREOLA ORIENTALIS—-(Leach.))

Huh—Southern and Eastern Europe, Western Asia, and Northern
Africa; during the winter it is found almost all “over India.
There is no record of the length of life of‘this , and the following

birds. , ‘
(310) THE RED—WATTLED} LAPWl-NG.
(LOBIVANELLUS INnrcnsqnoaan

Vernacular name-Tz'tz' Titiri pinidifiierent parts of India.
Hab.~——Common throughout India.

(311) THE commons SNIPE.

(GALLINAGO SCOLOPACINUS—(Bonap.) )

Hab.-—Northern Europe and Asia; :during'the cold weather very l
abundant everywhere in India. , . '

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304 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

head, neck, and crest dark brownish slaty grey; transverse lines down
the sides of the upper mandible; a circle round the eye and continued
to the sides of the head and chin, White.

Hall—China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

While some have proved hardy and borne captivity well, others
never recover from the dilapidated condition in which they arrive.
Specimens have been living since 1886.

(302) THE CRESTED DUCK.

(FULIGULA CRISTATA—Ray.)

Hindi—Dubaru ablac.

The length and thickness of the tuft vary somewhat in different
individuals; irides golden yellow.

Hab.—Europe and Asia. In India it is common in Central and
Southern India during the cold weather.

(303) THE WHITE-EYED POCHARD.

(FULIGULA N YROCA-(Gz‘ild.) )

Ben gali—Blmtz' Imus.

Even in perfectly adult birds the irides have been found to be
brownish grey or greyish white.

Hab.—'Europe, Africa, and Asia; during the winter it is common
throughout the greater part of India, including Lower Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living upwards of seven years.

(304) THE RED-CRESTED DUCK.

(BRANTA RUFINA—(Pall.) )

Hindi—La! Canola. Bengali—Hero-lzans, Odobra-lmns.

Hab.-— Southern Europe, Algiers in Northern Africa, Eastern and
Western Turkistan, Persia, India, &c.
Never have done well in captivity here.

(305) THE RED-BEADED POCHARD.

(AYTHYA FERINA—(Linn.) )

Bengali—Lat Mariya.

Pochards with pink irides are not uncommon.

Hab.——Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa. In India it “ occurs as
a cold-season migrant to the northern two-thirds of the Empire.”

Does not bear captivity well.

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 305

(306) THE EIDER DUCK.

(SOMATERIA MOLLISSIMA—(Linn.) )

; Bah—Europe and Northern Asia; it seldom visits India.
s A specimen lived for a few days only.

A <"Mm«mm-.WMAW—sm-mwm. wmmmmewafim-n 3 .

(307) THE BROWN-BEADED GULL.

(LARUS BRUN N CEIEPHALUS—Jerd.)

Hindi—Pani—kawa, or water crow in Bengal.
Huh—Found in the sea-coasts throughout the greater part of India;

they also occur far inland, and specimens have sometimes been obtained
from Northern Bengal.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Bear captivity well; specimens have lived upwards of seven years.

 

(303) THE GREAT BLACK-BEADED GULL.
(KROIKOCEPHALUS ICHTHYETUS—(Pall.))

The only specimen ever obtained came from Goalundo in Furreed.
pore. -

(309) THE LARGESWALLOW mom, on THE
EASTERN PRATINCOLE.

(GLAREOLA ORIENTALIS—(LeaclaJ)

Huh—Southern and Eastern Europe, Western Asia, and Northern
Africa; during the winter it is found almost all QVer India.
There is no record of the length of life of'this and the following

birds. _ —
(310) THE RED-WATTLED LAPWING.
(LOBIVANELLUS INnIcus'+(Bodd.))
Vernacular name— Titz' Tim-i indifferent parts of India.
H ab.-—Common throughout India.
(311) THE COMMON SNIPE.

(GALLINAGO SCOLOPACINUS-(Bonap) )

Huh—Northern Europe and Asia; ‘during'the cold weather very

V’ abundant everywhere in India.
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306 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS:

(312) THE BRONZE-WIN GED J ACANA.

(METOPIDIUS INDICUS—(Latk.))
Bengali—Jal—pz’pi, Karatiya, Kaltoa'.
Huh—India, Burmah, and Malayana.

(313) THE PHEASANT—TAILED J ACANA.

(HYDROPHASIANUS CHIRURGUS—(Scop) ).
Hindi—Pike. Bengali—Dal-kakm.
Hab.——India and Burmah.

TREATMENT IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

sin .-—A la e sheet of water with grassy banks, planted here
and tfeorzfa wigth treeslagnd shrubs to afford Shade and cover, 1s the most
suitable accommodation for aquatic birds generally. But for pract1cal
purposes it has been found necessary to enclose a long narrow arm of a
lake with light iron fencing about 4 feet h1gh to keep the pehcanS, swans,
flamingo, storks, &c. ; while for the ducks, geese, and other smaller
aquatic birds a light covered structure has been built over another end
of the ornamental waters: to give the birds shade, the roof must have
light thatching of 00100 grass, or creepers must be allowed to grow over
it. Most of these birds like retirement, and opportumt1es should be g1ven
them to enjoy it. Clumps of reed, grass, and shrubs should be planted,
but if the place is small and the birds are many, there 1s.httle chance
of anything growing; small boxes and earthen pitchers, 1f put up 1n
convenient places, make excellent ret1r1ng nests for them. Porches and
sticks should be provided for the tree ducks. ,

Cormorants and snake-birds have to be accommodated elsewhere, as
they are generally found to be unfriendly .towards the mm ates of a
duck-house. The experiment of keeping .pehcans and swans loose 1n a
large lake was tried, but failed, owing ch1efly to the depredatlons caused
by crocodiles in the water and jackals on land. Thls was unfortunate,
as the large island in the middle of the lake, thickly overgrown W1th
trees and shrubs, was all that a swan could des1re as a breeding-ground.
Besides those mentioned above, there are also other dlsadvantages 1n
keeping aquatic birds loose in a large tank: unless the1r number .1s.cons1-
derable they become lost; then there are birds whlch cannotbe p1n1oned;
these have to be periodically clipped—an operatlon whlch not only
involves much trouble, especially when there are many, but causes frlght
and unrest in the whole colony; then, again, the pehcans W111 soon clear
a tank of its fish. A simple enclosure like that used for keepmg the
swans, &c., is, however, no safety against Jackals and other predatory
animals at night, so that they have to be dnven 1n every evening to a
shed. This is not a desirable arrangement, as the operat1on 1s.not only
attended. with trouble to the keeper, but sometimes Wlth great discomfort
to the animals. . . .

Food.—Cormorants, snake-birds, and pehcans l1ve upon fish; .m
captivity the latter readily take to eat meat also, but too exclus1ve
a meat-diet is injurious to their health. Although they can, and do,

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY -IN LOWER BENGAL. ~ 307

eat more whenever they have an Opportunity, quarter to half a seer of
fish each daily is enough for cormorants and snake-birds; it is incredible
what large sized fish they are capable of swallowing; snake-birds have
been noticed to eat fish over four inches broad. At the scale of feeding
indicated above, each bird costs from Rs. 3 to Rs. 4 per month. When
they have facilities for fishing for themselves, no fish need be supplied
to the pelicans, but some beef meat (g to 1 seer) should be allowed;
they are greedy birds and soon clear a tank of its fish. The kinds of
fish mostly used for feeding animals are 001' (Anabas scandens, Bald.)
and sz'nglzee (Saccobranchus fossilis, Block.) The food of swans, ducks
and geese consists of grains, vegetables, and grass, supplemented a good
deal by aquatic insects, worms, larvae, &c. Of grains, paddy and bran
are chiefly used here, but Indian-corn, bajra, and rice may be substi-
tuted for or mixed with them. None should, however, be given dry, but
moistened with water. Swans and some of the ducks and geese graze
much, audibly tearing the grass with their sharp beak, and an extensive
grassy bank is therefore of great advantage. They are all more or less
fond of tender shoots of aquatic plants, and soon clear a pond of its
herbage, and hence it is difficult to grow anything in a small covered

enclosure: Ito/ca pans (Pistia stratiotes), baskets full of which are now

and then supplied, is greedily devoured. Wherever practicable, kalmz'
(Convolvulus reptens) and other aquatic plants should be grown. The
swans, ducks and geese may constantly be seen dabbling about near the
bank and in shallow water in search of live food, such as worms, larvae of
aquatic insects, and fresh-water crustaceans. It is asserted that swans
never feed on animal food. This does not appear to be absolutely correct.
Their staple food, no doubt, consists of vegetables and grains, but it has
been observed that they do not despise crustacean diet.

Transport.—For the transport of exclusively fish-eating birds, such
as cormorants and snake-birds, over long distances, somewhat similar
provision‘ for fish should be made as recommended under the otter
(page 91) ; fresh fish may also be bought at several ports of call. Some
cormorants become readily accustomed to eat mince meat if combined
with fish: for the swans, geese, and ducks a quantity of grit should
be provided.

Breeding—A pair of spotted-bill ducks bred in the latter end of
1885; no nest was made, but the eggs laid on a thick bed of down in
one of the retiring boxes overhanging water. Swans would breed in
this climate if suitably lodged ; one of those living in the Royal Bota-
nical Gardens, Sibpur, near Calcutta, laid four eggs in May 1890, all
of which were unfortunately broken. The chief impediments to swans
breeding are the presence of other birds, some of which are destructive
to eggs ; the necessity of driving them in every night for safety, causing
a certain amount of disturbance among them; and want of seclusion.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Thread worms, such as those commonly met with in fish, have been
found in the stomach and intestines of a large cormorant. Invagc’natz’on
of the intestines has been known to cause the death of a snake-bird.
Fungoz'd growths in the gullets of several species of ducks have been met
with. These cases chiefly occurred when they were kept in an artifisial

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308 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

condition in cages with brick floorings and masonry tanks. Tuberculosis
of the lungs and liver is not uncommon among various species of
aquatic birds. Leprosy of the liver has been met with in spotted bill
and pink-headed ducks. Disease of oil glands has often been noticed in
new arrivals; the birds neglect preening, and their feathers get wet,
resulting, not unfrequently, in cold, rheumatism, and other ailments;
dirt, confinement, and overcrowding during transit usually cause this
disease. The gland should be. gently washed with tepid water and dirt
sticking about the place removed, and until its action is established,
the patient should not be exposed to wet: it is also brought on by
general debility and organic disorders.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Cormorants are never shy; when sitting on a perch or on the
ground they generally keep their wings slightly expanded. This habit is
more noticeable in the little cormorant than in the larger species. They
dive for fish and hunt it under water, and such is the force of habit
that, when a fish is thrown on the floor, the cormorant picks up one,
immediately betakes to water, and after having swum and dived for a
few seconds, comes ashore to eat it. The snake-birds have almost iden-
tical habits with the cormorants; those in this garden seem to be very
retiring. .

The same set of pelicans have been observed to resort to a particular
tank immediately after the first shower of monsoon rain, and having
enjoyed fishing for five or six days, to desert it until about the same
time the next year ; they never dive, but when hunting for fish
frequently plunge their beak deep into the water, the tail raised perpen-
dicularly above its surface; it, would remain in this position struggling to
find something for ten to fifteen Seconds; they actively engage themselves
in hunting for food after the sun has gone down in the evening, some-
times continuing the operation at night, particularly if there is moon-
light ; they fish at other times also, especially in the morning, but not
so regularly. When regularly fed at a particular spot, they congregate
there at the approach of the feeding time and show their eagerness and
impatience for food by frequently opening their mandibles in imitation
of the action of receiving food into the pouch. The delicate flapping
movement of their exentsile pouch is most visible while they are resting
during the middle of the day. Swans are very cleanly in habits, and
spend much time and attention in cleaning their feathers every morning
after breakfast ; some may be seen on shore assiduously engaged in
preening, others in water-washing themselves, passing the beak over every
part of the body, and now and then beating the water with both wings
to splash it over every part. Their toilet finished, some repair again
to the feeding vessel to finish its contents, others retire for a nap or for a
quiet sail. The swans gather together in the shade during the midday
heat of the summer, and remain quietly floated for hours, as if afraid to
venture out in the sun. Swans are not unfrequently seen to fall sound
asleep while floating on the water and to drift along at the mercy of the
breeze. Extremely graceful in the water, a swan is very awkward and
clumsy in its movements on land; it feels relief on nearing the water; and

 

   

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 309

when coming down a sloping bank, and about to reach its proper element
it is often observed to push itself forward on the breast. A swan is seen
at its best when, with wings and tail raised and feathers erect, it
majestically pursues a female. This, however, should not be confounded
with the ruffling of feathers caused by anger or fright. It has several
other movements, each expressive of a particular state of mind. Like
pelicans, the swan also plunges its neck deep into the water where it is
shallow with a view to extract something eatable from the mud at the
bottom. Another characteristic peculiarity of the swan is that it may
be seen swimming leisurely with one leg drawn backward and upward,
so as to be distinctly visible above water. At the approach of the
migratory season, which, commences at the termination of the cold
weather, the ducks and geese evince great restlessness, and if loose and
capable of flight disappear. Ducks which in their wild state do not roost
on trees have been known to acquire the habit of a tree—duck in capti-
vity. Widgeons, white-eyed and mandarin ducks living in a large aviary
with other species of birds regularly roost on perches provided for
other birds. The seasonal change of plumage is noticeable in some
ducks, but it is most conspicuous in the mandarin; it begins throwing
off its feathers about the latter end of May, and by the first week of
July the casting off of the old feathers is complete. It remains in this
condition for about a fortnight, and after that period gradually begins
to assume a new plumage, completing the change about the middle of
September. In one or two cases the growth of new feathers has been
noticed to become arrested in its progress, the moult remaining incom-
plete until after the next season. For detailed information with regard
to the habits of ducks and geese which visit India and the adjoining
countries, Hume and Marshall’s “ Game Birds of India, &c.,” may be
consulted.

(314) THE PAINTED SAND GROUSE.
(PETROCLES FASCIATUS—(Scop.) )
Hindi—Hunderz', Boat-bur, Bkut-tz‘z‘ur.

Bah—Greater part of India, except_Lower Bengal.

(315) PALLAS’S SAND GROUSE.
(SYRRHAPTES PARADOXUS—(Pall.))

The characteristic feature of this genus consists in its remarkabl
small feet, which are joined together at the base and feathered to the

claws.
Hab.——‘Deserts of Central Asia, North-West China.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of a dozen specimens obtained in the latter end of 1888, only one
is now alive.

 

  

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810 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS
(316) THE THIBETAN SAND GROUSE.

(SYRRHAPTES TIBETANUS—(Gould.))

Description.—-“ It has the upper parts and breast minutely mottled
with zigzag markings; the throat and sides of the neck ochre yellow;
the wings sandy yellow with some black markings on the scapulars;
and the lower parts white. Length 20 inches.”

For a detailed description of the species see Hume and Marshall’s
“ Game Birds of India, Burmah, and Ceylon.”

Bah—Within India, the desert Alpine tracts of Ladak and the
upper portions of the Sutlej Valley; beyond it, the high plateaux north

of the Himalayas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The same as the preceding species.

(317) THE LITTLE BUTTON QUAIL.

(TURNIX DUSSUMIERI—(Temm.) )

Hindi—Dubkz', Turra. Bengali—*Libbz'a in Purneah.

Hab.—Widely distributed in India, but not very common in Lower
Bengal. In Bengal specimens have been obtained from J essore,
Purneah, Bhagulpore, Nya Dumka, &c.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—In providing accommodation for the sand grouse, damp
and wet should be scrupulously avoided, and may be generally treated
like the houbara bustard.

Food.——Grrains, seeds, fruits, and berries; a liberal allowance of
vegpltables should be supplied. Insects and worms are also acceptable
to t em.

Transport—The sand grouse are extremely shy birds, and should
be treated almost like pheasants.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

An autopsy was performed in- almost every case after the death
of a Pallas’s or Thibetan sand grouse, and in the majority of them death
was found to have been caused by disorders of the liver or lungs.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F SAND GROUSE.

They are extremely timid birds, and as shy after six months as on
their arrival ;although the cage in which they lived was lofty and
spacious, they were seldom, if ever, observed to fly, always preferring
to squat on the sand and hay on the floor ; they are said to be rather
noisy birds in their wild state; in captivity, however, they are not so.

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 311

(318) THE SARAS CRANE.
(GRUS ANTIGONE—(Linn.))
Hindi and Bengali—Swag.

It is a well-known bird, and therefore no description is necessary.

Herb—India and Burmah,; not common in- Lower Bengal. For
a detailed account of its distribution see Hume and Marshall’s “ Game
Birds of India, -&c.” '

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Saras cranes are generally hardy and live for years; the nestling
and yearling birds which are frequently brought for sale, are, however,
sometimes difiicult to rear.

(-319) THE COMMON CRANE.

(GRUB CO MMUNIS—Bechst.)
Hindi—K ul u 72:9.

Description—The prevailing colour of the plumage dark ashy,
washed with faint bluish; forehead black; crown red ; sides of the head
and neck white. In most specimens the white has a reddish or buify
tinge; tertiaries elongated, floating and black tipped. The colour of the
bill varies a good deal in shade in difierent individuals; it is usually
dingy horny green; the colour of the irides also varies; legs black.

Hab.—Found throughout Europe, extending to Northern Africa,
Palestine, Asia Minor, Persia, Afghanistan, Siberia, and China. In
India it is a winter visitant only, being more common in the north than
towards the east; there is no record of its ever being found in Lower

Bengal.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVI’I‘Y.

The longest period during which any of these birds has as yet lived
here has been three years and a few months only.

(320) THE AUSTRALIAN CRANE.
(GRUS AUSTRALASIANA—Gould.)

It resembles the saras crane, but is somewhat smaller. and the
extent of the red, which is lighter and of a buify tinge, hunted.
Hab.—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY

Four years.

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312 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(321) THE LARGE WHITE, OR THE SNOW-WREATH
CRANE.

(GRUB LEUCOGERANUS—Pall.)

Hindi—Oare-Kur. szlu' in Oudh.

Except the quills, which are black, the whole plumage is white ;
thenaked skin of the face red; legs and feet red; the red is duller in
immature specimens, and very intense and bright in adult during the
breeding season.

Bah—Afghanistan, Eastern Turkestan, various parts of Siberia.
Mongolia, Manchuria, and Japan, and rarely North China; it visits
India as a winter migrant, and is generally confined to several districts
of the North-Western Provinces, and to the lakes and rivers of the
Himalayas.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since 1882.

(322) THE WHITE-NECKED CRANE.

(GRUS LEUCAUCHEN-Temm.)

Of a brownish slaty grey colour ; the head and the upper part of the
neck White.
H ab.—J apan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Two years and six months; the death was caused by some accident.

(323) THE MANCHURIAN CRANE.

(GRUS VIRIDIROSTRIS— Weill.)

. It. resembles the. kulung or common crane, but diifers from it
In having a green bill and black legs ; in immature specimens the

green of the bill is dull.
Huh—North China.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nearly three years ; the specimens exhibited never assumed proper
plumage or looked happy.

(324) THE DEMOISELLE CRANE.

(GRUS VIRGO—Lima.)

Hindi—Karkarm.

Descm‘ptz’on.-—Head, neck, and elongated plumes of the b e t bl -
a tuft of white feathers extend backwards from each eye; this geggfal

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 313

plumage ashy grey; quills black; the tertiaries elongated and drooping ;
bill greenish at the base, yellowish in the middle, and pinkish at the
tip (the latter is not always very distinct); irides coral red.

Hab.—Southern and South-Eastern Europe, Northern Afi‘ica,
Asia Minor, countries about the Caspian, Eastern Turkestan, Afghan-
istan, Southern and North Eastern Siberia, Dauria, Mongolia, and
Western China. It is a cold weather visitant to India, and is found
during the winter in the western parts of Southern India, Central
Provinces, the North-West Provinces, Behar, in the sub-montane
districts of Bengal and Assam.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It bears captivity remarkably well, as some of them have been
living for a number of years.

(325) THE BALEARIC CRANE.
(BALEARICA PAVONINA—(I/inn.) )

Description.—Forehead velvety black; crown of the head adorned
witha large tuft of wire-like bristles of variegated colour ; general colour
of the upper plumage, including the hackle-like plumes, ashy grey;
chin black; beneath and behind the eye a large bare red patch; the
exposed parts of the wings white, the inner red; some reddish brown
loose plumes cover the lower parts of the wing ; under surface grey.

Huh—West Africa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimen living since 1883.

(326) THE CAPE CROWNED CRANE.
(BALEARICA CHRYSOPELARGUS—(Licht.))

In this species the bare patch beneath and behind the eye is

white.
Hab.——West Africa.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

, Housing.——Properly speaking, cranes require no housing; they
enjoy nothing better than being kept loose in a. garden, with freedom
to roam about as they like ; but this mode of keeping does not answer
in a public garden where hundreds of visitors daily resort. The next best
accommodation for them is a large enclosure with a tank, so that they
may have ready access to water. The crowned cranes have been found
doing well in enclosures without a tank: the saras, snow-wreath, and
the demoiselle cranes require no particular protection from rain, while
the success which has hitherto attended the keeping of the crowned
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314: A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

protected from the vicissitudes of the climate. Saras cranes are much
given to fighting among themselves and with others, and care should
be taken to isolate the ill-tempered ones. J ackals and other larger
predatory animals are great enemies of animals that cannot defend
themselves, and the smaller cranes are among them; hence the necessity
of shutting them in every night.

Facet—Cranes are usually fed on grains of various kinds, soaked or
dry, according to individual taste, and vegetables; but some of them find
a great deal of their own food, consisting of frogs, lizards, small reptiles,
fresh-water shells, earth-worms, &c. This shows the kind of accommoda-
tion they must have. The white and the crowned cranes do not appear
to care much for this kind of diet.

Transport—Half a dozen or more saras or other cranes are fre-
quently brought down to Calcutta from Lucknow and other up-country
stations in wicker cages, all being hooded with a piece of cloth to pre-
vent their pecking at each other. The birds suffer much, as they can
neither eat nor drink properly during the time the journey lasts. Demoi-
selle cranes are not much given to peeking at each other or anybody,
and therefore seldom require hooding. When they are to be sent to
far countries and the j Gurney to last for a considerable time over the
sea, ’no’ wicker arrangement ‘Will do, but a light strong plank cage of
suitable size should be provided ; the front must be made of wire netting
to prevent the birds putting out their beaks, and a screen provided for
letting down in bad weather; unless they have lived peacefully for
some time and their temper is well known, saras and white cranes
should not be placed in pairs, but all separately. '

Nothing particular is known about their ailments in captivity.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or CRANES.

A saras crane is fond of living in the neighbourhood of water, and
so are the demoiselle, snow-wreath, and the Australian cranes ; it is never
shy, timid, orsuspieious, but soon becomes tame and confiding, so that
it readily comes to the side of the enclosure to be fed and caressed, not
unfrequently evincing great pleasure at the notice taken of it by per-
forming many amusing antics with outstretched wings and accompanied
by a low, subdued trumpeting; its purring is also expressive of pleasure.
A. saras of a bad disposition is, however, not uncommon; it appears to
exist only, as it were, for peeking at everything, bird, beast, and man;
children being the special object of its wrath. It usually feeds during
the day, but on several occasions it has been observed to be engaged in
stirring up the mud and searching for food till late at night. The trum-
peting of a saras is loud and piercing and may be heard at long dis-
tances; it is heard oftener at night and early in the morning; and when
they are living in batches in different parts of the garden, the call of
one is always answered by the others. Whether they habitually kill
snakes is not known, but on one occasion two of them were observed
doing so. The white or snow-wreath crane is more shy and generally
less noisy, though at the breeding season it may be heard calling loud
and sometimes incessantly with much display of plumage; compared
with the saras its note is feeble, but not so feeble as it has been repre-
sented to be by some authorities; the note is a shrill, shivering whistle

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 315

with a mellow weirdness about it; the white crane appears to be fender
of water than the saras or any other crane. The common, Manchurian
and Japanese white cranes have not thriven well here, and have generally
behaved in a listless way. The dance of the demoiselle cranes at the
commencement of the breeding season is well worth observing; it has
been graphically described by Von N ordmann, and quoted by Hume
and Marshall in “ Game Birds of India, &c.” “They dance and
jump,” Von Nordmann says,“ towards each other, bowing themselves
in a most burlesque manner, bending their necks forward, extending
the plumes on the neck and depressing their wings; others again in
the meanwhile run races, and on arrival at the goal return striding
along gravely and quietly, whilst the rest of the assembly greet them
with reiterated cries, inclinations of the head, and other demonstra-
tions.” It appears that this dance depends a great deal upon the
number of birds living together. With occasional interruptions, a few
of these birds have always been living in ‘ the garden ever since its
establishment, but they were never noticed to dance before. It was in
the spring of 1891 that they were for the first time observed to indulge
in this habit, their number having previously been augmented by the
accession of a good many new specimens. During the season of
migration they become inordinately restless, calling incessantly and
making repeated ineffectual attempts at flight ; they are always lively
and active in the forenoon, but generally quieter in the afternoon.
The specimen of the belearic crane living in the garden is a most
amusing creature; but it has its moods: grave or gay, pugnacious or
amiable ; it has two distinct call notes, uttered in succession; and mostly,
heard while shut up in its house.

(327) THE INDIAN HOUBARA BUSTARD.

(HOUBABA MACQUEENI—J. E. Gray 99' Hardw.)

Description.—-Head crested; the crest is composed of a series of
lengthened slender feathers in the centre of the crown; those in front
white with black tips, those behind wholly white; upper . plumage paler
buff and beautifully mottled; terminal half of the primaries black;
cheeks white, with black shafts and tips; the throat white; neck
delicate fulvous; under parts white; the neck ruff begins from near the
ear coverts; those at the sides of the neck are very long, white at the
base and black at the tip; bill horny or horny slate colour; irides
pale to bright yellow; legs: and feet pale yellow. Total length from
25 to 27 inches. . .

Hab.—The plains of the Punjab, Rajputana, Northern Guzerat,
Cutch, the northern parts of Kattywar and Sindh; stragglers may some-
times be found in other places in North-West India during the cold
weather; common and abundant in the desert tracts of Bikaneer,
J odhpore, and adjacent tracts. They are cold'weather visitants to India,
and are found throughout the year in Afghanistan and Pers1a.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living since April 1890.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

316 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS
(328) THE BENGAL FLORICAN.

(SYPHEOTES BENGALENSISf—I-f. L. S. Milller.)

A Specimen obtained some years ago lived for a few days only;
another has recently been obtained, and is so far doing well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—The only way to make the damp, moist climate of
Lower Bengal tolerable to a bustard is to give it a high and dry place
to live in, with a run of suitable dimension attached to the cage;
the latter should be turfed and planted here and there with shrubs
to afford it concealment when alarmed; it is an extremely timid
bird, and impatient of intrusion, exhibiting much fright and rest-
lessness at the slightest cause of excitement. Until such time as
it gets over this state of mind, it should either be placed in an unfre-
quented part of a garden, or such precautions taken as to prevent its
remaining in a constant state of excitement and unrest ; canvas screens
may be kept down, or a light hand-railing placed round the cage
to prevent Visitors approaching too near. A place similar to that
assigned to the swans, pelicans, &c., is no doubt the best for the Bengal
florican, which frequents swamps and jheels; failing this it, may be
accommodated with the bustard. ' .

Food.—In its wild state the bustard feeds on fruits, berries, shoots
of grass, picking up, grasshoppers and beetles; in captivity the same
kind of food may be easily supplied. . Specimens now living in the
collection were habituated to feed on bread and milk, and on being
offered fruits and grains took no notice of either. They are, however,
being gradually weaned from a bread and milk diet; if the run is
large, patches of paddy, wheat, Indian-com, mustard, and lemon
grass may be planted in proper seasons: while the unripe ears of corn
and tender shoots of grass will supply them with a good deal of natural
food,» the plants Will afford them cover and amusement. The florican
feeds on seeds, grass, and insects.

Transport—Should be treated like the pheasants.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F HOUBARA.

The Species has only been lately obtained, and has not yet become
thoroughly accustomed to its new surroundings. It behaves much like
a partridge in walking up and down the sides of the cage, and dashing
against the wire when alarmed.

(329) THE PURPLE 000T.
(PORPHYRIO POLIOCEPHALUS—(Latlz.))

Hindi-—Kez'm Kaz'm. Bengali—Edam Kem.

Huh—Found throughout India and Ceylon, and is common in
Bengal wherever there are extensive marshes and jheels.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 317

* LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

As the specimens have get mixed up, it is difficult to determine
the individual identity; it is, however, not unlikely that some have been
living for the last twelve'years or even more.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—Being aggressive and quarrelsome in habits, it cannot
unfortunately. be kept with the ducks and other smaller aquatic birds,
and is consequently accommodated in less suitable places Wherever
placed, it should have abundant supply of reeds, tank-weeds, and other
plants growing in water, as the stems not only afford it food, but it
delights to walk and perch onI them. It soon becomes tame, and may
then be kept loose in tanks and jheels. '

Food.—Seeds, grains, and vegetables. Those living in the garden
appear to be ominvorous. Minced meat, bits of bread, and other
remnants of food are as welcome to them as grain and seed. ‘

Breeding—The purple coots have thrice bred in this garden, seach
time the hen laying four eggs: they have been known to have two
broods in a year.’ Early in June 1890 a pair had two chicks, which were
unfortunately killed by some vermin before they were many days old ;
the pair concerned were, however, determined to have young ones,
so that, after an interval of about a fortnight fresh eggs were laid, and
in due time hatched. Proper precautions having this time been taken,
they succeeded in rearing the young, which are now full-grown birds.
Although the male was frequently near the female during the process of
incubation, it was never noticed to take any share in the act. For about
two months after the young are hatched, the parents exhibit great soli-
citude and concern in their safety and well-bein g, so that, if anything
unusual occurs, the hen 'bird at once runs towards the chicks and sits
crouching with wings stretched over them, while the cock assumes an
attitude of anger and defiance towards the intruders; often has a coot
been observed to stand against the wire-netting, and watch every move-
ment of a domestic fowl just outside it, of whose presence it would take
no notice under ordinary circumstances. They have also been repeatedly
observed to fly in a rage with outstretched wings towards a new keeper
and to peck and kick him with vicious energy. The; eggs are faint
bluish grey and spotted brown. The young coots take about six months
to assume perfect plumage. ,

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF COOTS.

The coots destroy eggs by sucking them, and have been known to
treat even their own eggs in this way. They fight among themselves
with energy and force, and when thus engaged they sometimes get inter-
locked.

(330) BLYTH’S 000T.

(PORPHYRIO CHLORON OTUS —BZ_yt/z.)
Hab.-— Africa. The specimen was caught 50 miles off Cape Verde.

 

 

mu- ‘5! .- . a.-

,_ -;..r 431.4“ «nu

 

 

31.8 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN THE GARDEN.

About three years.
(331) THE COCT.

(FULICA ATRA—Linn.)

Hindi—Dasarm‘. Bengali—Burrs Godkcm, about Purneah.

Description—The entire‘plumage black, deep about the head and
neck, greyish on the back, and ashy below ; bill and frontal disk white,
the former slightly tinged with pink or rosy during the breeding season;
inhyoung birds the frontal disk is inconspicuous; irides red ; feet green-
Is .

Huh—Europe, Asia, and Africa; common in most parts of India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The same remarks as have been made with regard to the purple
coots apply to these also.

(332) THE WATER COOK.

(GALLICREX CINEREUS—(Gmel.) )

Hindi and Bengali—Kora or Kkora.

It resembles the purple coot in general appearance; but the pre-
vailing colour of its plumage is dull black instead of bluish ; the male
has a long flesh-red crest.

Hath—India, Burmah, Ceylon, and Malayana; common in Lower
Bengal. Specimens have been obtained from Dacca and Tipperah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAI‘TlVITY.
About seven years.

(333) THE MOOR HEN.

(GALLINULA CHLOROPUS—(Lz’nn.))
Hindi—Jat Mary/2i. Bengali—Dalmk Paira.
Hab.—Found throughout India.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
No record.

(334) THE WHITE-BREASTED WATER HEN.
(ERYTHRA PHOENICURA—(Pemm)

Hindi and Bengali—Dahuk.

Bah—India, Burmah, Ceylon, and the Malayan Islands; it is very
common in Lower Bengal, and numbers of them are found in a wild
state Within the garden.

 

'IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 319

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

No record of individual specimens has been kept, but the species
bears captivity well. _ -

TREATMENT ‘IN HEALTH.

Housing and feeding.—The coots and water hens may be treated
like the purple coot. With the exception of the water cock, they are all
good tempered and sociable and do Well with the ducks; the water hens
live happily in a large aviary. They mostly feed on vegetables; but
almost everything supplied to other birds is welcome to them, minced
meat and maggots not excepted.

Breeding.—The white-breasted water hens breed regularly within
the garden, building their nests of weeds in the midst of shrubberies
near the edge of the tank; in tanks full of weeds they have often been
found to build right in the middle.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F Coors AND WATER HENS.

The coot is most aquatic in habits, swimming and diving like a
duck; the water cock has similar habits to that of the purple coot, but
it is shy and retiring in disposition ; though not generally aggressive,
when provoked it fights savagely ; it has a peculiar deep trumpet-like
voice; the water hen is very tame and sociable; the jerky movement of
its tail is very noticeable, especially when it is excited. They are
rather noisy birds, particularly during the breeding season; those living
in the aviary always roost on the topmost perches.

(335) HARDWICKE’S SPUR FOWL.

(GALLOPERDIX LUNULATA—(Valenc.) )

The spur of the hen bird is small, and there is generally only one

in each leg. , ' . .
Huh—Several parts of Southern India, Including the Eastern

Ghats, Hyderabad in the Deccan, and extending through Central

Provinces to Mirzapore and Monghyr. . _
There is no record of the period during which any of them lived

in this garden.
(336) THE BLACK FRANOOLIN.

(FRANCOLIN US VULGARIS—Steph.)

Hindi—Kala titur. Ghaghar.

Huh—Throughout the whole of Northern India, from the Hima-
layas to the valley 'of the Ganges; Cuttack, Midnapore, Maldah,
Dinajpore, Rungpore, Dacca, Tipperah, S lhet, Cachar, Manipur, the
Care and Khasia Hills, Bhutan Duars. utside India it is found in
Southern Beluchistan, Afghanistan, Southern Persia, and the forest

regions of the Caspian.

 

A HAND BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The black francolin does well in captivity in Lower Bengal;
specimens have lived for upwards of ten years.

(337) THE PAINTED FRANGOLIN.
(FRANCOLINUS PICTUS—Jerd. at 8611).)

H rah—Central and Southern India, Saugor and Nerbudda districts,
Outtack, and N agpore.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

The same as the black francolin.

(338) THE GREY FRANCOLIN.

(FRAN COLIN US PONTICERIANUS—(Gmel.) )
H ab.-—-Central' India.

(339) THE WOOD FRANCOLIN. -

. (FRAN COLIN US GULARIS—(S/zaw.) )
Had—Eastern Bengal.

(340) THE HILL FRANCOLIN.

(ARBORICOLA TORQUEOLA—( Val.) )

Hindi—Ban titur. Pem'a.

As this species is not very commonly known in Lower Bengal,
a short description is given.

Male—head and ear covelts rusty; the sides of the neck and nape
the same colour; lores and supercilia black, the latter lined with a
narrow white streak; shoulders, back, and rump olive, with dusk
triangular spots, those on the rump being black; chin and throat black,
the outer feathers being margined white; the neck and upper part of
breast bright olive; below the black of the throat is a circle of white;
the lower breast and belly greyish white ; sides olive, tinged with chest-
nut and marked with large white spots; tail black speckled, with
a terminal dark band; bill black ; irides brown; legs red; total length
about 10% to ll inches. The female differs from the male in having
the head and neck olive or olivaceous with black speckles, and the chin,
throat, and sides of the neck light chestnut, with black markings; the
neck and the breast olive with a chestnut gorget.
' The shoulder, back, rump, and sides of the specimens in the garden
are light ashy.
" Hab.—Found in the Himalayas from Simla to Sikhim, at elevations
from 5,000 to 9,000 feet ; it also occurs in Assam.

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 321

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have lived u wards of six a . a t . .
well in Lower Bengal. P ye 1’8 , ppear o bear capt1v1ty

(341) THE WESTERN BAMBOO-PARTRIDGE.
(BAMBUSICOLA FYTCHII—Anderson.)

Description.—Head and nape re sh brown ; back olivaceous as °
the feathers of the upper back and eggpular with longitudinal ohestlriiit
markings; the secondaries and tertiaries have broad chestnut markings
and black subterminal spots and whitish tips; quills deep chestnut with
black edgings ; tail ruddy brown, with ruddy chestnut bands and dark
edgings; lores, pale bufl, extending beyond the eyes as a supercilium;
ear coverts, chin, and throat pale rusty ; a broad, black streak extends
downward. from behind the eye ; the feathers of the breast have rufous
markings in the centre and paler at the outer edge, and all margined
With black, giving a. scaly appearance; breast and abdomen buff ; sides
spotted With black; legs pale grey, with a greenish tinge; bill, pale
horny black.T

Hab.—— he Khasia and Garo Hills, North Caohar and a '
and throughout the hill ranges of Upper Burmah. ’ N ga H1118,

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

It does not appear to thrive well in captivity.

(342) THE BLACK-BREASTED OR THE RAIN QUAIL.

(COTURN IX COROMANDELICA—(Gmel.) )
Hindi—Batter.
Bah—Found in most parts of India.
(343) THE COMMON QUAIL.

(COTURNIX COMMUNIS—Bonn.)

Hindi—Burn: Batter. Bengali—Buttree.

. Hab.-7Found throughout the most part of India; outside India,
1t occurs in Beluchistan, Afghanistan, Persia, Arabia, and nearly
throughout the whole of Asia.

(344) THE ASIATIC QUAIL.
(PERDICULA ASIATICA—(Lath )

J uhar in Western Bengal.
Hab.—Found almost throughout whole India, including Lower
Bengal.
1:

 

 

32.2 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although there is no record, quails have generally done well in
this garden.

(345) THE CROWN ED PARTRIDGE.

(ROLLULUS CRISTATUS—(Gmel.) )

Description.—Head, neck and its sides black; bare area around the
eye, and a longitudinal space behind it, red; a red crest of loose plumes
on the head; colour of the plumage above greenish ; underneath
black; wings brown ; legs and feet red; basal portion of the bill also
red, rest of the bill black. The sexes differ; the female has no crest :

the general colour of the plumage grass green. .
Huh—Southern Tenasserim, Malayan peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo,

and probably Java.
LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Upwards of seven years. A

(346) THE BLACK ROLLULUS.

(ROLLULUS NIGER—(Temm.))

Description.—Entirely black, with a. red crest.
Hab.—Malay peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo.

(347) THE CALIFORNIAN QUAIL.

(CALLIPEPLA CALIFORNICA—(Shaw.) )

In size it is much larger than any of the quails described above;

its head is ornamented with a crest.
Hab.—-California.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have lived for over five years.

(348) THE CHUKAR PARTRIDGE.

(CACCABIS CHUKAR—(Gray.) )

Hindi—Chukor. Bengali—Charter.

Though well known by name as a bird mentioned in the classical
literature of India, its identity is not generally familiar in Bengal.

Description—General colour of the plumage above pale bluish
ashy, washed with rufous; neck and breast ashy, passing into buff
in the abdomen ; lores black, a slight white band behind the eye ; face,
chin, and throat light fulvous ; a necklace of black band, commencing
at the corner of the eye, surrounds the throat; wings reddish; the

 

. {a .. . ..
w;

 

 

 

1N CAPTIVI’I‘Y IN LOWER BENGAL. 323

coverts and the primaries narrowly edged with buff; sides of the breast
and belly banded; the feathers being ashy at the base, black in the
middle and tipped brown; bill red; irides buff; legs and feet red;
total length varies from 15 to 17 inches. The female resembles the
male, but has no spur, and the general colouring of the plumage is
somewhat dull.

Two varieties of chukars have commonly been exhibited. Some
specimens are dark, with bright red bill and legs; others pale and
light coloured. These differences are due (aide Hume’s “ Birds ”) to the
varying conditions of the climate in which they live.

Hab.—Throughout the Himalayas, from the east of Nepal to
Afghanistan, and from thence southwards to the level of the sea;
the salt range of Punjab. It also occurs beyond the Himalayas, in
Chinese Thibet, Southern Mongolia, and the mountainous parts of
NOIthern China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Although specimens have lived for five or six years, they do not
as a rule thrive in the climate of Bengal.

(349) THE HIMALAYAN sNow COCK.

(TETRAOGALLUS HIMALAYENSIS-Gray.)
Huh—Throughout the Himalayas from the east of Kumaon.

(350) THE THIBETAN SNOW COCK.

(TETRAOGALLUS TIBETAN US—Gould.)

Bela—The Specimen exhibited in the garden was said to have

been brought from Almora.
Both the above species were very short-lived in this garden.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.-—-Wet and damp should be avoided. Though not generally
retiring in disposition, these birds all like concealment, and provision
should be made that they may enjoy it when they like ; small elongated
boxes without a bottom placed on the floor, heaps of hay and straw,
shrubs in pots may be advantageously used for this purpose; these
birds when kept in a large aviary appear to do well; proper accom-
modation for partridges ought to be of the same style as that recom-
mended for pheasants; new arrivals should not be placed in a house
lighted from the sides, but when this is unavoidable, a piece of tarred
canvas may be hung up against the wire to prevent the glare.

Food.—Grrains and seeds of various kinds, insects, maggots, and
vegetables ; some of them are foul feeders, and enjoy stable refuse
and filth.

Breeding.—-—The black and the grey partridges have frequently
laid in this garden, without even making any nest.

Transport.—May be generally treated like the pheasants.

x2

 

 

 

‘ 324 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

’ s suffer from almost all the diseases to which pheasants
in caggfviji'tlgiie subject, and in such cases the same treatment1 may
be tried ; climate much affects the chukar partridges, especially“ 1uring
the rains. An apparently healthy and lively bird becomes du (,1 eéweg
off feeding, sits listless with feathers blown out, and is foun t' ela
the next morning ; a post-marten; examination. shows nothing par 1%11 2r
to account for the death. Abnormal and masskapen great/as of ea 8
and nails have been met with in partridges, the result, in mosticases,
of the unnatural conditions in which they are condemned to we 1111;
captivity; constant pecking at hard things, and scratching amonngs
leaves and pebbles in search of food has the natural effect of wepriiig
off the beak and nail in a wild state; .while the ease and regu gm y
with which they obtain food in captiVity has often an oppomte e co .
Tubercular diseases of the lungs and hver are also common.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F PARTBIDGES.

r'd es are round birds, though some of them, such as the
F. pity; cicasionalgly roost on shrubs or low perches, probably fgr
concealment ; the chukar partridge is, however, an exception: it gengria -
1y roosts high. Most of them keep to the corners of the av1aries, h? en
away behind shrubs or underneath the wooden stages for p ants,
sallying forth every now and then in search of food or for amusement ,
older 'birds are bolder and may generally be seen treading the floor
of the house in company with other species. blew arrivals are very
timid, and some of them so stupid that, in spite of opportunity for
concealment, they persist in hugging the sides of . the cage, close to the
wire or a white wall, to the great injury of their breast feathers and
head. In aviaries thickly sprinkled With sand or dry earth the tame
partridges make hollows y scraping them, and there enjoy dust-baths ,
they lie on their breasts, leaning now on one Side and then on another
and exposing the wings alternately—their enjoyment .18 complete if
the place is sunny. The black partridge .18 very nOisy during the
spring, which corresponds with Its breeding season, and calls loud
and incessantly in the morning, at midday, and sometimes even at
night ; the painted partridge has a .pleasant chirping note ; the chukar
.is another noisy bird; its call-note is fully described by Hume. The
chukar partridges are more quarrelsome and pugnacious than the other

species.
(351) THE HIMALAYAN MONAUL.

(LOPHOPHORUS IMPEYANUS—(Latk.))

Description.—“ Male, head with the crest and throat bright me—
tallic green; back of the neck brillant 1r1descent purple, passmg into
bronzy green, and all with a golden gloss; upper part of the .back anld
wing coverts, rump, and upper tail coverts, richly glossed With purple
and green, the latter colour prevailing on the wings and furthest tai -
coverts, and the purple on the back and rump; middle of the back white ,
quills black; tail cinnamon rufous; the whole lower surface black,

   
   
    
  
  

   
  

   
 
  
  
 

      

 

 

   

   
   
   
   

 

_..-__., ..

        
    

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 32b

glossed on the throat with green and purple, dull and unglossed else-
where.”——Jerdon. Total length 27 to 28 inches; bill horny grey;
naked orbits blue. The female is pale brown with dark spots and
markings, and is smaller in size than the male; chin and throat white.

The males lose much of the bright metallic lustre of the plumage
after a season in the plains. .

Hab.—“ From the western borders of Kashmir to the more ‘
western portions, at any rate, of Bhutan. The Monaul is found in
suitable localities throughout the Himalayas.”-—Hame.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about eighteen months. Others have come
into the possession of the garden, but none have thriven; nor is this
expected, considering the high elevation at which they live.

(352) SGLATER’S MONAUL.

(LOPHOPHORUS SCLATERI—Jerdon.)

This bird has no crest; there is a large bare space all round the
eye of a bright blue colour; the sides and back of the neck rich golden
copper with a metallic gloss; the middle back, rump, and upper tail
cowrts white; in other resPects it resembles the preceding species
generally.

Hub.—Said to inhabit the hills near Sadiya in Upper Assam. A
specimen was on deposit for a few months.

(353) THE PHEASANT.

(PHASIANUS COLCHICUS—Linn.)

Descn'ph’ma—Head green, brownish on the occiput ; behind the
ears are small tufts of greenish feathers; throat, Sides of face, spot
under eye, and neck green, with blue reflexions; upper back golden
yellow, feathers with triangular marks of dark blue; rest of the back
black, with chestnut margins, and a buify white streak running parallel
to the shaft; rump red with greenish reflexions, deep red over the tail;
upper tail coverts olive brown, mottled with browmsh black; upper part
of the breast rich brown-red, glossing from orange to purple and blue;
flank golden orange broadly tipped with deep blue; abdomen black,
with centre feathers yellowish brown in the middle, next a red longi-
tudinal line, and a green edging; narrow black bars cross the centre;
lateral feathers mottled black on their inner webs; further laterally
they are mottled on both webs; under tail coverts deep red; bare skin
of the eye scarlet, finely dotted with green feathers. The female is gene-
rally smaller, of a greyish yellow colour, and mottled.

Hab.-British Islands.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Bears captivity well; some of the specimens lived over seven
years.

  

 

326 A HAND-soon OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALs

(354) THE RING-NECKED PHEASANT.

(PHASIAN US TORQUATUS—Gmel.)

Description.——Forehead and crown light green; ear tufts and.neck
deep green with bluish reflexions; collar round the neck white, Inter-
rupted in front by the green ; upper back brownish red, feathers With black
tips and margins; wing coverts buff in the centre, a line of black next,
and purplish red at the tip; rump red With green reflex10ns, some buff
marking being visible here and there; shoulders. light brown With
greenish refiexions; secondaries light brown, havmg deep chestnut
margins; primaries brown, barred irregularly .Wltll yellowrsh white;
upper tail coverts red, breast purplish red With rich coppery lustre, the
feathers margined with bluish black; flanks golden chestnut, centre .of
each feather marked with dark blue; abdomen black With greemsh
reflexions; under tail coverts red; tail very long, yellomsh brown,
irregularly barred with black, and margined red. . The female 1s brown-
ish, the feathers margined with bufi; throat Whltlsh:

Hybrids between this and the preceding speCIes have often been
exhibited.

Hab.-—China.

LENGTH or. LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

As hardy as the common pheasants, and live as well.

(355) SCEMMERRING’S PHEASANT.

(PHASIAN US SGEMMERRINGI—Temm.)

“ The male has the whole of the upper surface and throat of a
fine coppery brown, with a lighter border to each feather, which in
some lights appear of a purple hue; in others rich ceppery red, and in
others again bright but deep flame colour—this latter being especially
conspicuous on the lower part of the back and upper tail coverts * *
* * * * ; feathers of the under surface marked
‘ like the upper, but the bordering is not luminous, and terminates in
dull grey, within which , on the lower part of the sides of the abdomen,
is a narrow line of white; eye orbits red; bill brown colour; feet
bluish brown colour.”—Gould.

Huh—Japan.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
A male lived for about three years, but it never gained a perfect
plumage. .
(356) THE BAR-TAILED PHEASANT.

. (PHASIANUS REEVESI—Gray.)

Description.-—“ The head is covered by a cowl of white, surrounded
by a band of black, With a spot of white under the eye; the neck has

   

    

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 327

a broad ring of white; the feathers of the back and upper part of the
breast are of a brilliant golden yellow, margined with black; those of
the lower part of the breast are white, each one presenting bands of
black more or less irregular in their arrangement; the under parts of
the body are deep black ; the tail is formed of eighteen feathers, which
are closely folded together, so that the entire tail appears narrow ; at the
broadest part, the feathers are about two inches in breadth; the ground
colour of each tail feather is greyish white in the centre, and golden red
at the edges, and crossed with crescent-shaped bars, which vary in
number according to the length of the feather, in the longest feather
being considerably more than fifty.”— Tegetmez'er.

The irregular bands of black on the lower part of the breast are
variable in extent and intensity, so that the breast appears more yellow
in some specimens than in others.

Hab.—North China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of a number of birds exhibited from time to time only one bore
captivity well, and lived for about seven years.

(357) ELLIOT’S PHEASANT.

(PHASIAN US ELLIOTI—Swinlz.)

A specimen of this gorgeously coloured bird lived for about a
month only.
Huh—China.

(358) THE CHEER PHEASANT.

(PHASIAN US WALLICHII—Hardw.)

A plain-looking bird of an ashy brown colour, with black and
yellowish bars to the feathers; the head crested; bare area round the
eye red; total length about 45 inches, of which the tail is about 26;
the female is smaller and lighter in colour. '

Hab.——-The Himalayas, being found in Nepal, Kumaon, Garhwal,
Debra Dun, Kulu, Kangra, &c.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Not recorded; it does not appear to bear captivity in the plains.

(359) THE GOLD PHEASANT.

(TI-IAUMALEA PICTA—(Linn.) )

Description.—In general appearance an adult male is a red and
yellow bird with finely variegated feathers. The head is ornamented
with a long crest of silky orange coloured feathers. This extends back-
‘Wards over a tippet formed of broad, flat» feathers, which are of a deep

328 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

orange colour, with dark blue bars across the tips. These latter form,
when the feathers are in position, a series of horizontal lines across the
tippet. “ Below this tippet on the lower part of the neck the feathers
are deep green margined with velvet black; below this again are the
scapular feathers of a dark crimson; the back and rump are golden
yellow; the tail itself is very long; the two longest central feathers
are covered with small irregular circles of light brown on a dark
ground, giving them a‘ mottled appearance; the other feathers'are barred
diagonally with dark brown on a lighter ground. On each side of the
base of the tail extend the long narrow upper tail coverts of a bright
orange crimson. The wings when closed show the deep blue tertiaries
covering the chestnut secondary quills. The upper part of the throat
is light brown; the breast and under parts orange scarlet.”—Tegetmeicr.
The hens are plain-looking birds, barred with alternate shades of
light and dark brown.

(360) AMHERST’S PHEASANT.

(THAUMALEA AMHERSTIZE—(Leadb.) )

Description.—Forehead green; the long plumes of the crest crim-
son; tippet white, each feather being margined with a dark green band,
with a second narrow band at some distance from the tip; the front of
the neck, the breast, shoulders, back and wing coverts, metallic green,
each feather being tipped with velvety black; the lower breast and
belly white; the thighs and under tail coverts mottled dark brown and
white; the tail coverts are brown at the base, striped green and white
in the middle, and bright red at the end; the two middle tail feathers
are marked with transverse bands of green; the bill pale greenish; the
naked skin of the face light blue.

Hybrids between this and the preceding species have also been
exhibited. ,

Bah-China.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Six years.

(361) THE SIAMESE PHEASANT.

(EUPLOCAMUS PRELATUS—(Bonap.) )

The general colour of the plumage bluish ashy or bluish grey of a
peculiar shade; the feathers of the rump black WIth crimson margms.
Hab.—Siam and Cochin China.

(362) SWINHOE’S PHEASANT.

(EUPLOCAMUS SWINHOII—Gould.)

The prevailing colour of the plumage is black, with bluish margins
to feathers; longitudinal blue marking at the sides. of the neck and
upper breast; an elongated patch of white on the hInd neck and the

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 329

upper back; the portion on the back is lined at the sides and below .with
a broad lining of bright chestnut with golden and coppery refieXIons;
there is also a small patch of white on the occiput.

Eab.—Formosa.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A male has been living for upwards of five years.

(363) THE RUFOUS-TAILED PHEASANT.

(EUPLOCAMUS ERYTHROPTHALMUS—(Rafles) )

The general colour of the plumage,black of different shades, the
rump scarlet, and the tail buff. The female has a. dingy greenish
plumage, and possesses long spurs like the male.

Hab.—Malacca.

There is no record of the length of life.

(364) VIEILLOT’S FIREBACK.

(EUPLOCAMUS VIEILLOTI—(Gray.) )

Description.—Crest and general plumage steel blue; feathers of
the wings and back margined with brilliant blue; rump bright red;
primaries dusky brown; upper tail coverts shining blue; central tail
feathers white; remainder black with a bluish gloss; feathers of the
flank streaked white at the centre; bare skin of the face deep blue;
crest compressed below but expanded at the top; the general colour of
the plumage of the female is chocolate brown.

Hab.—-Malay peninsula and Sumatra.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens lived over five years.

(365) THE BORNEAN FIREBACK.

(EUPLOCAMUS N OBILIS—Sclater.)

Description.——-Crest like that of the preceding species and blue-black
in colour; neck, upper breast, and back shiny black, with blue and
green reflexions; wings brownish black, with greenish margins to the
secondaries and tertiaries; primaries and under tail coverts black, with
metallic margins; middle of the abdomen and thighs black; tail
black with the exception of the four central feathers, which are brownish.

Hab.—Borneo.

A male lived about ten months only.

 

 

330 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

(366) THE SILVER PHEASANT.

(EUPLOCAMUS N YCTHE MERUS-(Linn.) )

Description—The crest flowing and silky and blue-black in colour;
the upper part of the body including the tail white, feathers “pencilled
with most delicate tracery of black ;” the whole of the under parts bluish
black and glossy; the large bare area of the face bright vermilion. The
general colour of the female is brown, mottled with grey;

In perfectly healthy birds the bare skin becomes extremely
brilliant and somewhat swollen during the breeding season.

Hab.—China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have been living upwards of ten years.

(367) THE LINEATED KALEEGE.

(EUPLOCAMUS LINEATUS—Vig.)

Description—The whole upper plumage black, closely and finely
pencilled with white ; on the wings and outer tail feathers the white lines
are broader and not so close as on the back; the inner webs of the
central tail feathers almost white, traces of markings being visible here
and there; the breast and the whole lower plumage black, the sides
being streaked with white; the crest black, and the large bare skin
of the face red. The female is somewhat smaller and olive brown in
colour; the area of the bare skin of the face smaller and less brilliant.

Hab.— Pegu, Tenasserim, &c.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
About six years.

(368) ANDERSON’S KALEEGE.
(EUPLOCAMUS ANDERSON I—Elh‘ot.)

_ It resembles a silver pheasant in certain, points and a lineated in
others ;. the crest 1s like that of the latter; the marking on the back
and .tail feathers are much coarser than either of the two preceding
species.

Hab.—Burmah.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From November 1876 to September 1883.

(369) CUVIER’S KALEEGE.
(EUPLOCAMUS CUVIERI—(Temm.) )

Description.—-Male-“ Like the male of E. lz'neatus but 'th
white streaks on the lower plumage; the breast is strongly” 1tingleid

  

  

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 331

with deep blue; a tinge of blue runs through all the upper plumage;
and the feathers of the rump and upper tail coverts have broad white
margins; the vermiculations on the upper plumage are not so frequent
nor so white; and there is much less white on the tail.”- Oates.

The female also resembles the female of E. lineatus, but difiers in
important points. It is much paler, there are no white streaks on the
neck ; tail dark chestnut; outer feathers without any marks, the others
pencilled black ; the lower plumage much duller.

Hab.—Arracan. .

There is no record of the period during which any of them lived
in the garden, but they are hardy birds and bear captivity well.

(370) THE PURPLE KALEEGE.

(EUPLOCAMUS HORSFIELDI~ Gray.)

Description—The upper plumage black, the feathers of the wings
margined brownish, and those of the rumps and upper tail coverts
conspicuously margined with white; the bare orbital skin crimson;
the female is rufiscent brown, with no white streaks on the lower
plumage; the tail black with the exception of the central feathers.

Hab.——Cachar, the Khasia and Garo Hills, extending as far
eastward as Sadiya ; Bhutan, Sylhet, Hill Tipperah, Northern Chitta-
gong, and probably Arracan also.

N 0 record of length of life in captivity.

(371) THE BLACK-BACKED KALEEGE.

(EUPLOCAMUS MEL AN OTIS-(323474.) )

Description—Male-fl The whole upper plumage, including the
crest, glossy black; beneath white; the feathers of the throat and breast
long and lanceolate; abdomen, vent, and under tail coverts dull
brownish black. .

Bill pale horny yellow; orbital skin fine red; irides brown; legs
horny. The female has the plumage brown, pale and whitish about the
head and throat ; the feathers of the back tipped with greyish, and those
of the wing coverts and beneath broadly edged with white; all the
feathers faintly white shafted.”—Jerdon.

{Yah—Sikhim, extending as far west as the easternmost parts of
Nepa .

(372) THE WHITE-ORESTED KALEE‘GE.

(EUPLOCAMUS ALBO-CRISTATUS—(Vig.))

Descm'ptiom—Crest white; upper plumage bluish black, the feathers
being margined with brown; lower back and rump white, feather barred
with black ; throat and breast greyish white, feathers lanceolate ; bill dark,
horny; orbital skin bright red; the female. is of an uniformly brown
plumage, the feathers being tipped with whlty brown.

Hab.—North-W'est Himalayas.

 

 

 

 

332 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
Some of these have been living since 1885.
TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—In zoological collections pheasants, like most other birds
are exhibited in fixed and permanent aviaries. Once placed in such a
habitation they are condemned to live in that limited space till death'
they tread the same hard briCk floor day after day and year after year:
if they live so long; they have no change, cannot forage for themselves
and do not thrive. ,
A proper pheasantry should consist of a shed or house for shelter and
retirement and an Open-air flight or enclosure as a grazing ground; to
be healthy and comertable, it should be so constructed as to admit, if
possible, of being shifted from one place to another as occasion arises.
No bird dislikes more than a pheasant a state of confinement for a
lengthened eriod, within a limited space, as nothing injures its health
more than t e forced deprivation of all opportunity of grazing for itself.
The site selected should be dry and its drainage good, so that even
during the rains it ought to be altogether free from subsoil moisture; to
ensure this it may be necessary to prepare the ground by raising it with
sandy scil. The system of giving the birds an occasional change of
ground may be much simplified by building a permanent shed of any
desired style and dimensions, and having the runs made of moveable
wire hurdles fixed on one side, so that they may be, when required
shifted to the other side of the shed. Small plants and shrubs should be
planted in the runs ; these afford cover to timid birds which otherwise dash
against the wire netting at the slightest alarm. The runs may be netted
over at the top with stout fishermen’s netting, but to prevent inroads of
smaller predatory animals which prowl about everywhere during the night
and even during the day, it is much better to use wire netting; as, however,
the pheasants are much given to flying against the top and injuring
themselves, a piece of string netting should be stretched across about
a feet below the wire. At night the pheasants should be shut in the
shed, which ought to be airy and well ventilated during the summer
with contrivances to exclude draughts and cold during the winter:
Civets and mungooses appear to have a greater penchant for pheasants
than for other birds, and are ever on the look-out for the weak points of
a pheasantry to effect an entrance; all possible precautions should there-
fore be taken to keep them out, and the keeper should be instructed
and warned to make a close examination of the house every morning
and to have the slightest breach, if any, repaired. During the rains
it may be necessary to keep the birds indoors continually for several
days, as prolonged exposure to wet in a state of captivity is injurious
to their health ; the brick floor of the shed should be thickly sprinkled
over with coarse sand, which should be occasionally renewed. An aviary
for pheasants is wanting in its most essential requisite if it has no grass
run. With regard to the change of ground, in permanent aviaries it may
be managed by occaSionally spreading a layer of fresh earth, about four
inches deep, over a portion of the floor of the outer cage. Many valuable
suggestions for the formation of aviaries for pheasants may be found in
Mr. Tegetmeier’s excellent book on pheasants.

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 333

Food.—-In their wild state pheasants are omnivorous in appetite,
feeding on grains, seeds, fruits, tender shoots of plants, vegetables,
insects, worms, slugs, and even small lizards; their diet in captivity
should, therefore, be as varied as possible, with due regard to the
conditions of climate and circumstances affecting animal life. An early
meal, consisting of Indian-corn, barley, wheat or other grain, pounded
together with a small quantity of egg-shell; green food later on, and
grains and seeds and a few grasshoppers or meal worms the last thing
in the evening, appear from experience to be as good a dietary for
pheasants and other gallinaceous birds in captivity as can be devised.
The ingredients must of necessity vary according to the season of the
year, appetite of birds, and other conditions. Boiled onions and
potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs, shell and all, may be occasionally added.
During the rains and winter the latter should be invariably given at
least twice a week; fresh green food, and if possible a few fruits and
berries, should be daily supplied; if the grass runs be tolerably spacious,
a small plot in each may be planted with spinage, salads, lemon-grass,
and some succulent vegetables, and this can be easily managed; a wattle
hurdle being enough to prevent the birds picking up the seeds and eating
the tender shoots as they appear. After they are sufficiently grown, the
hurdles can be removed for an hour or two daily to enable the birds to
enjoy nibbling at fresh green food. Before, however, the latter is
trampled and eaten down, the hurdles should be put up again to allow a
fresh crop to grow. Much of course will depend upon careful and intelli-
gent management and constant attention. Pheasants are often fed with
tit bits by visitors in the afternoon, and if the keeper is observant and
careful, he should watch the quantities eaten, and regulate their evening
allowance of grains and seeds accordingly. The time for feeding should
be very early in the morning and very late in the evening during the
winter; and about seven in the morning and five in the afternoon in
summer; the green food always between 9 and 10 in the forenoon. A.
healthy bird takes about 10 to 15 minutes to eat up its food, so that
all remnants should be removed after about half an hour; this will
have the effect of diminishing the inroads of rats, which are generally
attracted by food lying about. A piece of Mirzapore stone, about a
foot square, hollowed out so as to leave a rim 1 inch deep, forms a capital
feeding vessel. Pheasants should be always fed in one place, and for
this purpose the sleeping apartment should be preferred; abundant
supply of clean drinking-water should be kept in a cool place, and the
drinking vessel daily scoured. Lime in some form or other is most
necessary for the pheasants and other gallinaceous birds, and for this
purpose plasters of an old building appear to be the best.

Brecdz'ng.——The climate of Bengal is generally unfavourable for
breeding pheasants, and any aviary unprovided with retiring corners
militates against successful breeding. Some pheasants, however, such
as the silver, lineated, and Cuvieir’s (which have bred and reared their
young in this garden), breed almost in any climate if properly housed
and treated, and a few others may do the same under favourable
circumstances. Attention to the following details will be found
useful in breeding and rearing pheasants and other gallinaceous birds :—

A proper pheasantry of the type mentioned above, is the first
requisite ; the pairs should be well matched, and two or more species should

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

334 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

not be exhibited together; there should not be more than three hens to
a cock; besides the wicker baskets or nest-boxes full of soft hay or leaves,
bundles of faggots or paddy straw may be placed in corners, with a
passage just enough to allow the hens to creep in and nestle themselves
behind. These places should be searched for eggs, which should be removed
immediately after they are laid. In aviaries the hens drop their eggs
anywhere, and the male birds frequently destroy and eat them. “ There
is no doubt,” Mr. Tegetmeier says, “ but that bad management and
impr0per feeding tend to promote this serious evil. The frequent
disturbance of the birds by the inquisitiveness of visitors, had and
improper stimulating food, without a sufficiency of green vegetable
diet, want of cleanliness in the pen, an insufficient and dirty supply
of water, and want of grit to assist digestion— all aid in developing the
habit.” The annoyance caused by visitors can be effectually checked
in a pheasantry like that described above by simply transferring the
breeding pairs to the unoccupied side and closing all access to it. Such
a transfer can always be efieeted without the least disturbance to the
birds. Of the various means suggested for preventing the cock bird
from breaking the eggs, the following made by Mr. J. F. Dougall,
in his “ Shooting Simplified,” and quoted by Tegetmeier, appears to be
simple and practical. “ In pheasantries,” says he, “means should be
taken to prevent the eggs being destroyed by the male bird; and
as it is impossible to keep continual watch, the hen should be induced
to seek a dark secluded corner by forming for her an artificial nest
covered thinly with straw. Under this straw have a net of mesh
exactly wide enOugh to allow the egg to drop through into a box
below, filled with soft seeds or shellings, leaving only a few inches
between ; the cock bird then cannot reach the egg, which falls uninjured
on the soft seeds below, and is safely removed.” Watching for eggs is
perhaps the best and simplest, and is easily managed if the number
of birds to deal with is small and the keeper intelligent and careful;
a few imitation eggs made of chalk or marble, lying about during the
laying season may have the desired effect of preventing the cock from
acquiring the habit of breaking eggs, or of curing it if acquired.
Each hen should not be allowed to sit on more than eight eggs, and
it should in no way be disturbed during the period of incubation,
or interfered with while rearing its young. The cock should be separated
before the eggs are hatched. The chicks should not be fed for
about twenty to twenty-four hours after they are hatched; in the
meantime some pupa: of white-ants should be collected and given
them after the lapse of that period; egg beaten with milk and
gently heated forms capital food for chicks about this stage; they
are found to thrive well on food prepared as follows :—A little mutton
fat is set by a gentle heat on an oven, and when sufficiently heated a
small quantity of bruised canary, millet and hemp seed, and a little finely
chopped green vegetable are thrown in it and rapidly stirred and allowed
to cool. The mass crumbles away when cold and is easily picked up by
the chicks. Bruised Indian-corn and other equally nutritious grain may
be added as they grow older.“ Other modes of feeding chicks have been
recommended in works treating of the subject.
Transport.——Instructions drawn up for the Zoological Society of
London by Dr. P. L. Sclater and Mr. Bartlett for the benefit of those

,....a...,,.

 

{Rf

"’ M’ 77.W:
I

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 335

   
 

desirous Of forwarding the various species to England, are reprinted
in Mr. Tegetmeier’s book on pheasants, and are here transcribed m

ewtenso :—

INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT or PHEASANTS AND OTHER
GALLINACEOUS BIRDS.

1. For exportation, birds bred or reared in captivity should, if
ossible, be procured. But if this cannot be done, the following rules
should be attended to as regards wild caught birds.

2. As soon as the birds are captured, the feathers of one wing and
of the tail should be cut off tolerably close to their base. The birds
should be placed in a room lighted only from a skylight above and
having the floor sprinkled with gravel or sand mixed with tufts of grass
and roots and a little earth. Among these the food should be thrown.
A. tame bird placed with the wild ones is of great advantage, because this
bird will induce the new captives to feed. The birds should be kept in
this way until they have become tame and are fit to be transferred to
the packing case.

3. The food should consist of grain and seeds of various kinds,
berries, fruit, insects, green food (such as cabbage, lettuce, &c.), bread
Or soaked biscuit, chopped meat, boiled eggs, &c.

4. Travelling cages are most conveniently made of an Oblong
shape divided into compartments about 18 inches square, and not
higher than just sufficient to allow the birds to stand upright in them.
They should be boarded all round, except in front, where strong wire
netting may be employed, although, if the birds are at all wild, wooden
bars, close enough to prevent the inmates from escaping between them,
are preferable.

5. Every compartment should have the top on the inside padded
with canvas, as, if this is not done, the birds are very liable to injure
their heads by jumping upwards.

6. A moveable feeding trough should be fixed along the front of
each compartment. One-third of this should be lined with tin, pitch, or
otherwise made to hold water; the remaining two-thirds will hold the
food. .
7. Coarse sand or gravel should be kept strewn on the bottom of
the cages, and a supply of this should be sent along with the birds, as it
is necessa to them for the healthy digestion of their food.

8. The front of the cage should have a piece of coarse canvas to let
down as a blind to keep the birds quiet, and in order to give them air,
round holes should be bored at the back of the box in the upper

art.

P 9. The box should be cleaned out when the birds are fed, through
the opening in front made by removing the feeding trough, care
being taken that this Opening is not wide enough to let the birds
esca e.
p10. In order to supply the birds with green food during the voyage,
a few small trays (the same as are used to hold the sand or gravel) may
be sown with seed, such as rape, mustard, or any quick-growing Vege-
table. The green food thus produced should be cut for them from time
to time and the sand and roots afterwards thrown into the cages.

  

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

336 A HAND-BOOK or THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Cold and catarr/l—Is commonly met with among pheasants and
other gallinaceous birds, both young and adult ; it is mostly induced by
exposure to wet and draughts. If detected early, and causes removed,
the patient quickly recovers; but if allowed to run on it assumes a pum-
lent form and generally proves fatal: as the purulent catarrh is infectious,
the affected bird should be killed, and the place thoroughly washed out
and fumigated. A small quantity of raw ginger and a little treacle
should be given to the bird suffering from simple cold.

Rheumatism, cramp, and stifl'ness of joints are also brought about
by wet and cold; perfect dryness, warmth and good feeding are the only
remedies that can be recommended. These are preventible diseases, and
if proper attention be paid to sanitation and hygiene, no trouble need be
apprehended from them.

Gape is a most troublesome malady, generally affecting the
chickens; it is caused by the presence of a kind of parasite in the
trachea of the gallinaceous birds. If not removed and checked early, the
parasites multiply immensely and cause death by suffocation. By
way of treatment, spirit of turpentine may be applied to the wind-pipe
by means of a feather; the spirit of turpentine when properly applied
kills the. parasites, which are presently expelled in a fit of coughing
induced by the application. The parasites may be mechanically removed
by a loop of horse hair passed into the trachea. The most successful
remedy, however, appears to be the vapour of carbolic acid; its applica-
tion is easy, and may be managed by placing the afflicted bird in a
small wooden box with open top, over which a piece of cloth is stretched,
the vapour may be produced by pouring a few dr0ps of carbolic acid
on a small earthen gamla, previously made hot for the purpose. Much
suffocation will be caused; but this need not be feared, as the bird
will recover immediately on being let out in the open air. One
application is generally enough to cure the disease. It is recommended
by competent authorities that the worms after removal should be
burnt, and the dead bodies of the bird affected by them should be
similarly treated.

Inflammation of they/es is also a troublesome complaint, afflicting
both young and old birds. It generally breaks out in an epidemic form
during the summer and the rains, more especially the former; the
orbital area becomes swollen and tumified, and the eyes glued together
with a thickened discharge. The patient should be removed from the
pheasantry and placed in a clean and roomy cage by itself; the eyes
should be washed with tepid water, in which about 5 grains of
alum may be dissolved, and having gently wiped them dry with a bit
of sponge, a few drops of nitrate of silver (4 grains to an ounce of
water) should be applied. This treatment will have to be followed
several mornings before recovery takes place. The bird should be fed
by hand, otherwise it will die of hunger and thirst: milk and egg
treated in the same way as recommended for feeding chicks (p. 334) ;
satoo prepared with finely minced meat; Indian-corn and other nutri-
tious grains crushed and prepared with vegetables; raw ginger and
treacle, &c.—shou1d constitute the diet of the birds while suffering from
this and similar ailments.

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 337

Diarrhoea is not uncommon among pheasants and other gallina-
ceous birds ; too sudden a change in the atmosphere, change of food, bad
feeding, exposure and cold may bring it about. If there is much
straining, fomentation should be applied to relieve it, otherwise much
inflammation of the cloaca and other complications may ensue; inter-
nally a few drops of tincture of opium with the milk and egg-food
should be given ; a little rum in drinking water is also beneficial.

Tuberculosis of the lungs and liver is common, but seldom detected
in live birds.

Leprosy tubercles have been found in the livers of gallinaceous birds.
Perfectly healthy birds have been found to drop down dead, especially
gurifig the summer; too high a condition and adiposity causing the

cat .

With regard to housing, feeding, &c., the pheasants and other

gallinaceous birds to be hereafter described should be similarly treated.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF PHEASANTS.

All pheasants are more or less shy and timid; some of them, such
as the silver, lineated, gold, common, and ring-necked pheasants,
become soon and easily reconciled to captivity; but others continue as
shy as they were on their first introduction. These seldom come out
during the day, and prefer roosting under the sloping roof of the house,
or in some sheltered nook, concealed from visitors and strangers; they
come down to feed and drink, of course, but retire again afterwards.
Of those named above, the silver pheasant appears to be the tamest; on
the cage being approached, it comes to the side, its musical but soft
cooing and look of expectancy betraying nothing but confidence. The
display of feathers by the gold, Amherst, and other gorgeously coloured
pheasants during courtship is a singularly brilliant sight. The object
is the same as in the common peafowl—to captivate the female.

(373) THE RED JUNGLE FOWL.

(GALLUS FERRUGINEUS—Gmel.)

Hab.——“Jungly districts of all Northern India, from the valleys
of the Sub-Himalayan region southward to the Vindhian range and
the North Circars ; Assam, Burmese and Malay countries; Turkestan ?
(Blyth); Terai jungles of Oudh (Irby), Lombock; Timor (Wall.)-—”
Elliot.

This bird is the origin of our domestic fowls.

(374) LAFAYETTE’S JUNGLE FOWL.
(GALLUS LAFAYETTII—Less.)

H ab.-—Ceylon.
1t difiers from the above species in having a yellow comb.

 

 

 

338 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(375) SON N ERAT’S JUNGLE FOWL.

(GALLUS SON N ERATI—Temm.)
Hab.—Southern India, extending as far north as the Satpoora hills.

(376) THE FORKED-TAIL JUNGLE FOWL.
(GALLUS VARIUS—Shaw.)

It differs from all other species of fowls in having the hackles of
the neck square at their tips, instead of laneeolate; another distinc-
tive feature of this species is that it has a single median wattle instead of
One. on each side. The shade of colour of the bare skin behind the eyes
varies.

Hash—Java and adjacent islands.

(377) THEDOMESTIC FOWL.
(GALLUS DOMESTICUS—Limz.)

The following varieties have from time to time been exhibited :—
Cotton-feathered breed from China; long-tailed breed from Japan ;
bantams from China and Japan; Brahmaputra, Cochin, and many other
mixed breeds.

Fowls have generally done well. As, however, they do not thrive
when confined within a limited space, much care is necessary to protect
them from the depredations of mungooses and civets.

(378) THE HORNED TRAGOPAN.
(GERIORNIS SATYRA—(Linn.))

Description.-—Male——head black; throat intense blue, surrounded by
a band of black; neck, upper back, breast, abdomen, and all the under
parts bright red, spotted with white, each spot edged with deep black ;
back, rump, wings, and upper tail coverts brown, variegated with
black bars and white eyelets; orbits and erectile horns blue. Female—-
rufous brown, mottled and blotched with black ; breast and under parts
generally much lighter than the upper parts, which have a. rufous
tin e.

g Hula—Nepal, Sikhim.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Tragopans have not, as a rule, done well in this garden. The longest
period during which one of this species lived has been about eighteen
months only.

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 339

(379) THE BLACK-BEADED TRAGOPAN.

(CERIORN IS MELANOCEPHALA—G’ray.)

This species is not so brilliantly coloured as the recedin o '
to there being less red about it. P g, wmg

Bah—Himalayas, from Gharwal to Kashmir.
LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

A specimen lived for about seven months only.
(380) TEMMINCK’S TRAGOPAN.

(CERIORNIS TEMMINCKI—(Gray.))

Had—Central China.
Only an immature specimen was exhibited.

(381) CABOT’S HORNED TRAGOPAN.

(CERIORNIS CABOTI—Gould.)

DescrzMiom—Head, nape, and sides of the head black; crest brilliant
red; a patch of bright chestnut on each side of the neck; upper parts
reddish brown, covered with bright bufi spots, which are surrounded
with black; the spots are largest on the wings and tail coverts ; sides
marked with red and black,

Hab.——South-West China.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.
From January 1884 to April 1886.

(382) BLYTH’S TRAGOPAN.

 

(CERIORN IS BLYTHI—Jerdon.)

Description.—Head, neck, and breast bright chestnut; a broad stripe
on the top of the head, and a narrow one on each side of the ears black;
face and bare skin of the throat rich yellow; a band of green lined by
black separates the yellow of the neck from the chestnut of the breast;
upper parts reddish brown, covered with white spots; abdomen ashy
grey; primaries chestnut ; bill black.

Had—Upper Assam.

 

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

More than a year.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Tragopans are very delicate birds to deal with in the plains of
Bengal, and it is therefore better not to attempt acquiring the rarer

Y2

 

 

 

 

 

340 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

species, except for the purpose of transport to. some other congenial
climate. The only chance of keeping any of them alive is to get a
perfectly healthy bird, and place it in a cool, airy, and dry part of an
enclosure, such as has been recommended for the pheasants generally.
Both the summer and rains are trying seasons. Thediscomfort of the
former, however, can be much alleviated by covering the runs. With
dm'ma/z and k/zus-khzts mats during the middle of the day and until late
in the afternoon, and wetting them now and then With water; when
kept in houses without runs cold water baths may be administered by
den s ringe. .

a gachodZ-The tragopans are more fond of berries and fruits than
grain; with respect to animal food, they should be treated like other
h asants. ' .
P e Transport—These birds should not be brought down to the plains
except during the winter, and if possible newly-captured birds should
not be brought down at all. In other respects instructions given in

page 335 should be followed.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Climate appears to affect these birds so much. that, of a large
number of tragopans (C. Satyra) exhibited here from time to time, there
were a few only that were not always dull. They generally remain
perched up almost motionless at the same spot for days and weeks
together, coming down at odd times to feed and drink, when there is
nobody about. Only one of them has been found to partial advantage
displaying its plumage. It was past spring, and the bird had no mate,
but in the adjoining division of the same pheasantry was a hen of
another species, and to her its gallantry was directed. It was observed
perching upon a narrow ledge on the top of a low .plank wall, which
formed the lower portion of the partition separating the cages; .its
feathers were ruffled and wings a little expanded, and that on the side
farthest from the hen somewhat elevated. In this posture it stood
hissing and slightly, but majestically, jerking its head, which, With one
eye closed, was bent on one side. Whether from ignorance Of the arts
Of a tragopanian courtship or from wonder at the effect of such a magni-
.ficent display, no attention was, at that moment, directed to the horns
and lappets, which were probably also erect. For further information
about the distribution and habits of this group, Hume and Marshall’s
“Game Birds of India, &c.” vol. I, may be consulted.

'(383) THE COMMON PEAFOWL.

(PAVO CRISTATUS—Linn.)

Hindi—Mar, Trifle. Bengali—Maz'ur.
The white and piebald varieties (both imported from Europe) have
also been exhibited.
Hab.—Central and South Central India, Trans-Gangetic provinces,
the Terai of the Himalayas, Assam; rare in eastern districts of Bengal,
but common in Midnapore, West Burdwan, Orissa, and Sambalpore.

IN CAP'I‘IVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 341

(384) THE BURMESE PEAFOWL.

(PAVO MUTICUS—Limz.)

This species is readily distinguished from the preceding by the
following characters: blue and conspicuous yellow colour of the facial
skin; the long and stiff occipital crest, formed of straight, narrow
feathers, with the greater portion of the web metallic blue, washed
with green; the feathers of the neck, all round, and breast are brown
at the bases; next, bronze greenish, assuming different hues in different
lights; and lastly, a narrow margin of black. There are other minor
points Of distinction.

Hab.—Arracan, Pegu, Tenasserim, the northern portions of the
Malay peninsula, Siam, and Java.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Peafowls are hardy birds, and given suitable habitation, bear

captivity extremely well. Some have been living in the garden
almost ever since its foundation. '

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Peafowls are so largely domesticated in India that it would be
superfluous to say anything in respect to their housing and feeding. It.
may, however, be suggested that for the purpose Of exhibiting them
in _a menagerie, which necessitates a certain amount Of restriction to
their liberty, a structure similar to that recommended for the bastards,
but larger and loftier, and with such modification of details as may be
required to accommodate their particular habits, should be provided.

.Brcedz'ag. —Peafowls in captivity commence laying in spring, and
continue, With irregular intervals, almost till the end of the rains.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITS.

Peacocks have been Observed to commence strutting about, or
dancing, as it is popularly called, as early as the middle of December,
while they have not yet assumed their full train, and to continue the
display until about the end of the rainy season. A peacock dancing
about this time looks a veritable guy, with the few shreds of old feathers
yet left, but about to fall off. A peacock has been known to manifest a
strange attachment to a particular spot, to which it resorts for dancing,
which generally takes place in the morning between 7 and 10. This
has continued for about four years now. The bird is loose and wanders
far and near, but every morning, as long as the dancing season lasts, it
may invariably be seen at the same spot, strutting about to the
admiration, not of its mate, but of the passers by and the street-boys.

,(385) THE PEACOOK-PHEASANT.
(POLYPLECTRON CHINQUES—Temm.)

Dec-derrick of the Assamese.

Hab.—A.ssam, Sylhet, Cachar, Hill Tipperah, Chittagong, Arracan,
Pegu, and Tenasserim, extending to Burmah and Siam.

 

 

 

”.»....-_..._.V we” \ ”V... H V . , ........

gollww-MW“

 

 

 

 

 

342 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(386) THE MALAYAN PEACOOK PHEASANT.

(POLYPLECTRON BICALCARATUM—(Linnfl

Hath—Southern Tenasserim and Malay peninsula.
The males of these birds look. like diminutive peacocks, and are

adorned with eyelets over the body.
Though generally delicate, thEy have done tolerably well, some

having lived more than seven years.

(387) THE ARGUS PHEASANT.

(ARGUS GIGANTEUSe—Temm.)

The secondary quills are much longer than the rimaries, and all
of them, including the tail feathers, are covered with eautiful eyelets;
the general arrangement and design of the colouring is perfect without

being gaudy.
Hab.— Southern Tenasserim, Malay peninsula, Sumatra, and Siam.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Specimens have lived upwards of ten years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Much of what has been said regarding the [rousing and feeding of
other pheasants apply to these also. They appear to be more fond of
fruits than other food.

OBSERVATIONS ON THEIR HABITs.

The Argus pheasant is solitary, cleanly, and methodical in habits.
It has never been found, even after long years of captivity, to com-
pletely overcome shyness and timidity. Its call-note is loud and
sonorous, and sometimes heard at night also.

(388) THE DOMESTIC TURKEY.
(MELEAGRIs MEXICANA—Limz.)

Is seldom exhibited.
(389) THE COMMON GUINEA-FOWL.
(NUMIDA MELEAGRIS—(LinnJ)

' (390) THE MITRED GUINEA-FOWL.

(NUMIDA MITRATA—Pall.)
Huh—Madagascar.

 

 

 

 

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL. 343
(391) THE CRESTED GUINEA-FOWL.

(NUMIDA CRISTATA—Pall.)
Huh—West Africa.

(392) THE VULTURINE GUINEA-FOWL.

(N UMID A VULTURINA—Hardw.)

Huh—Eastern Africa. .
The Guinea-fowls have not, except the common species, home

captivity at all. The housing was no doubt at fault, and the season of the
year was not favourable for acclimatizing them. A habitation similar
to that recommended for the bustards will, perhaps, suit them better.

(393) THE GLOBOSE CURASSOW.

(CRAX GLOBICERAwLinn.)
H ab.-—Tropica1 America.

(394) YARRELL’S CURASSOW.

(CRAX CARUNCULA TA—Temm.)
II (Ia-Tropical America.

(395) THE RASOR-BILLED CURASSOW.

(MITUA TUBEROSA—(Spix.))

Hab.—South America.

The curassows, which are said to be the new world representatives
of the pheasants, possess the following characteristics :—

Bill moderate; culmen much curved; tip obtuse; base of man-
dibles covered by a naked cere; wings short and rounded; tail long
and rounded; tarsi stout and long, covered in front by large scales ;

toes long and scutellated.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

, Curassows thrive well in this climate; some have been living
upwards of ten years.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Should be treated like the pheasants.
Curassows are given to fighting among themselves. Their call-note
is peculiar, being a combination of the mewing of a cat and the

subdued cry of an infant.

  

 

A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

(396) THE RUFOUS TINAMOU.

(RHYNCHOTUS RUFESCENS—(Temm.))

Huh—Brazil.
A specimen lived for a few days only.

(397) THE COMMON CASSOWARY.

(CASUARIUS GALEATUS - (Vieill) )

The distinguishing characteristics of this species are the horny black
quill-like spines by which the wings are replaced, and the bright blue
and purple colour Of the bare skin of the neck; the females appear to
have larger casqaes. The largest specimen exhibited stood 4 feet 6

inches high.
Hab.——-The Island Of Ceram.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Three years and a few months. Cassowaries have not hitherto
thriven well in this garden, owing partly to unsuitable habitation, and

partly also to injudicious feeding.

(398) THE AUSTRALIAN CASSOWARY.

(CASUARIUS AUSTRALIS -= Wall.)

It resembles the preceding species in general appearance, but has
a larger and more prominent casqae, and the colour of its naked throat
and foreneck is cobalt-blue, the claw on the inner toe is straight and
much more elongated than in the Geram Cassowary, the general colour
of the plumage less dark.

Hab.-—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Two years and ten months.

(399) THE ONE-WATTLED CASSOWARY.
(CASUARIUS UNIAPPENDICULATUS—Blytk.)

It is distinguished from the above species by its having only one
caruncle in the neck; it is of an oblong or elongate oval shape and of a
yellow colour; the cheeks and throat are smalt blue; the prevailing
colour of the plumage dark brown.

Huh—The island of Salwatti near New Guinea.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

About two years.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY 1N LOWER BENGAL.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.— A well-drained grassy lawn with trees here and there to
afford shade during the blazing hot days of summer, and a small shed
to Shelter them in bad weather, are all that is necessary for cassowaries '
a light fencing, about 4feet 6 inches to 5 feet high, is enough to keep theni
1n; stout wire-netting of a somewhat wide mesh had better be used in
building the enclosure, as otherwise they are apt to kick and peck through
the bars. Their former habitations in this garden having proved unhealthy
they are now accommodated in an enclosure used as paddock for rumin:
ants, and seem to be doing well. In giving them accommodation low
damp grounds should be avoided; during the cold winter nights it is
better to Shut them in.

Food.—Cassowa1ies thrive on vegetables, fruits, and roots; ignorant
dealers feed them on boiled rice and potatoes, and some of the birds
take such a fancy to this diet that they refuse any other food offered
them. In captivity young birds thrive well on bread and biscuits, which
can always be safely given in conjunction, or alternately, with fruits and
vegetables ; boiled rice should be strictly avoided. Some cassowaries have
been observed to eat insects.

Breediig.——C‘:ssodwarieshhave never laid in this garden, but a few

ears a o e re in t e mena erie of the late Ra' '
Illfullickgof Calghtta. g Jab RaJendra

Transport.—The battened cages in which cassowaries are imported

are unsafe: strong plank cages should be provided for a long journey.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

Inflammation of the lungs; bronchial catarrh ; inflammation of the
entire mucous lining of the moat/i“ and diarrlzcea have been met with
in the cassowaries exhibited here; treatment is seldom of any avail
when the disease gets real hold of an animal; but to alleviate suffering
remedies already recommended in similar cases may be tried.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS 0F CASSOWAEIES.

The female cassowaries are generally more pugnacious and ill-
tempered than the males; nevertheless they all become remarkabl
tame within a short time. They are very lively animals, and ofte‘;
indulge themselves in kicking and jumping. When fighting they kid;
with great force and energy.

(400) THE EMU.

(DROMEUS NOVEE HOLLANDAE-Vieill.)

Description.—-“ In form it closely resembles the ostrich, but is
lower on the legs, shorter in the neck, and of a more thick-set and

 

* See under Emu, No. 400.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

346 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

clumsy make. At a distance its feathers have more the appearance of
hair than of plumage, their barbs being all loose and separate. As in
the ostriches, they take their origin by pairs from the same shaft. The
wings are so extremely small as to be quite invisible when applied to
the surface of the body. They are clothed with feathers exactly similar
to those of the back, which divide from the middle line and fall grace-
fully over on either side.”- Gould.

‘ Next to the ostrich it is the largest bird known, standing between
5 and 6 feet in height. The prevailing colour of the plumage of an
adult bird is light brown or greyiSh-brown, mottled with greyiSh-black;
the head and neck are covered sparingly with short feathers; bill black
or dusky-black, depressed at the sides, straight and slightly keeled along
the middle, and rounded at the extremity ; nostrils large; irides yellow-
ish-brown ; legs dusky-black; toes, three, directed forward.

Bah—Australia.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Nine years. This, however, does not represent the maximum period,
as the bird in question is still alive and well.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing—An emu is a very hardy creature and requires no housing,
properly so-called; it must be assigned a large enclosure; a fencing
similar to that recommended for the cassowaries does equally well; they
are much given to fighting among themselves, rendering separation
necessary; new arrivals introduced in enclosures already occupied by a
pair or two generally fare badly: the vicissitudes of climate do not affect
them, but experience has shown that when kept in low and damp places
their health suffers. Crows are their great enemies, pecking them
mercilessly whenever they can, and sometimes inflicting large wounds
on their back.

Food—In their wild state emus live upon grass and vegetables
alone; in captivity they appear to be omnivorous, but their staple food
consists of broken. biscuits, bread, crushed food consisting of Indian-
corn, oats, gram, With a quantity of vegetables; if the enclosure is large
and green grass plentiful, they require little extra food; fruits are always
welcome to them.

Ifreedz'ng.—Emus have laid several times, but only once succeeded in
hatching and rearing young ones. This happened in 1885-86: between
the. 4th of November and 23rd of December 13 eggs were laid, of
which 2 were broken; on the 24th the male was found excited and
anXious, VISIting the eggs repeatedl , which were lying on a sandy patch
of grOund adjoming their shed; the place was at once fenced in with
durmah mats, to afiord as much privacy as possible. On the 26th
the male. sat on. 11 eggs, to which 4 more were subsequently added.
The period of. incubation lasted for 63 days, the bird sitting all this
time With praiseworthy perseverance, in spite of thunder-storms and
heavy rains, to which it was twice exposed during the latter end of
February. As it was never observed to leave its nest for food or drink,

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 347

fear was entertained about its life, so that, about the 39th day fcf its
sitting an attempt was made to induce it to eat by placing tempting
morsels close to the bird. This had the undesirable effect of disturbing
the animal, which left the nest and began walking up and down in a most
excited manner. Fortunately, however, it soon settled down again. It
appears certain from the notes kept at the time that the bird was never
observed to leave the nest during the prolonged period of incubation,
except on the occasion mentioned above. It is presumed that it must
have procured sustenance at night when there was nobody about, but
a plateful of food left overnight was always found untouched in the
morning. The emaciated condition in which the bird was found to
be reduced rather supports the belief that it went without food. Of
the 15 eggs, 4 were addled or broken and 11 hatched. The chicks
at birth were striped longitudinally on the back and sides on a light
greyish ground, the marking being black. For the first 12 hours
or so the young emus require no food, but afterwards they should be
fed on cabbages and doob grass chopped fine; for weakly birds hard-
boiled eggs mixed with finely powdered meal should also be supplied.
One of the chicks died when a week old; two were made away with
at night by jackals. To insure against a similar mishap the nursery had
to be enclosed with wire-netting. Of the eight surviving young, only
two reached full growth, the rest dying before they were six months
old, from the effects of cold or gape. The stripes of the young
disappear in about six months, and they assume the mottled appearance

of the adult.
Transports—It is perhaps best to place them separately to prevent

any chance of fighting.

TREATMENT IN SICKNESS.

The same as the cassowaries. One of the emus now living had,
some three years ago, an attack of inflammation of the lining membrane
of the mouth, to which ulceration supervened; while under treatment
it was removed to another part of the garden. The effect of the change
was marvellous; the animal soon recovered, and was sent back to the
old place; before, however, six months had elapsed it again became
subject to the same ailment, was again removed, and the result, as
anticipated, was that it speedily recovered. Some of the cassowaries
which died from the effect of the ulceration of the mouth and windpipe
Occupied the same enclosure where the emu was afterwards placed,
and it is not unlikely that their lives might have been saved if timely
removed like the emu. The grounds of the enclosure have since been
somewhat raised and its drainage also improved.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS or EMUS.

An emu is a very inquisitive creature, especially the young ones.
Ordinarily emus walk with a, heavy and measured step, but if so inclined
they are capable of running with great swiftness, as may be seen when
they are chasing one another or engaged in gambols ; they leap, jump,
and kick, roll over, then suddenly get up and beginthe chase anew,
stopping as suddenly again, each takes a different direction. This takes

 

 

 

 

 

348 A HAND-BOOK on THE MANAGEMENT or ANIMALS

place when they are in a pleasant mood; but at other times one may be
seen chasing another from quite a different cause. Lately two old speci-
mens were introduced into an enclosure in which a pair of recent arrlvals
had already been placed; everything went on satisfactorily for about
an hour, but presently one of the older birds—a female—began chasmg
one of the new; what provocation it had received was not known. lt not
only chased the poor thing, but kicked forward on its back With . its
powerful and massive limbs whenever it had an opportunity; ferocity,
pride, and a determination to vanquish were plainly vis1ble 1n the large
glaring eyes of the one, whereas the other looked extremely confused
and frightened. An emu has been known to behave as If it were
trained to perform; on the approach of the keeper with the morning
meal the bird would sit on its tail end, a few feet from him, and hav1ng
balanced itself properly on its limbs, would, in a most deliberate
manner, approach the man, inch by inch, swaying the head and neck
from side to side in a most fascinating manner.

(401) THE 0STRICH.
(STRUTHIO CAMELUS— Linn.)

The ostrich is the largest of birds ; it has a small head, with a flat
crown, a short, broad, and depressed bill, a long and muscular neck,
a stout body, with wings incapable of flight ; extremely muscular
thighs; the feet have two toes, which are unequal in length and directed
anteriorly; the sole of the foot is furnished with a pad. Young ostriches
have a mottled dark-brown plumage, with yellowish white quills and
tail feathers; these colours, in adult male birds, change into black and
pure white, respectively, whereas the females become uniformly
dark grey, or greyish brown ; the young birds have no down in the
neck, the adult ones have. Two forms of ostriches are generally seen;
the visible portions of the skin of the neck and thigh are flesh-coloured
in some, whilst in others they are bluish ; the former are said to be from
Northern and the latter from Southern Africa.

Bah—The ostrich is found throughout Africa, from Southern
Algeria to the interior of the Cape Colony.

LENGTH or LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Six years and a few months have been the longest period during
which an ostrich has lived in this garden. The damp moist climate
of Bengal does not suit the constitution of these birds.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

Housing.—A shed to protect the bird from draughts and cold
during the winter nights, and an open-air promenade attached to it are
the principal requisites; during the wet weather it may be necessary
to keep it in-doors continually for several days, and the habitation
therefore need to be of sufficient length to allow the bird to walk up
and down, as is its wont, during this forced confinement; the floor of the
shed should be somewhat higher than the level of the ground, and

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL. 349

perfectly dry; it may be built of brick-on-edge or of flagstone and joints
.well cemented; a thick layer of coarse sand should be spread over it,
otherwise sitting on hard bare floor will hurt the bird ; besides, it keeps
the place dry. The sand should be frequently changed, especially during
the wet weather; during the winter and summer the same sand may be
used for several times after being exposed to the sun on each occasion;
straw bedding should be avoided; the larger the ground for the
promenade, the better. For practical purposes of exhibition, an enclosure
80 feet long and 50 feet broad, with alight iron fencing about 5 feet high,
is enough for a pair of birds; the drainage of the ground should be perfect.
A gravel ath, some 4 feet broad, may be laid all round the fence
inside, ast e ostrich walks much alongside it; thick patches of sand
here and there will also be much appreciated; the ground should be
kept scrupulously clean of broken glass, broken bits of shells, old nails
and such other things. Accommodation for an ostrich is not complete
without a tank or pond where it can thoroughly enjoy bathing when it
likes. It may be sometimes necessary to separate a pair, or there may
be birds of unequal temper requiring separate lodgment. Such contin-
gencies should always be anticipated in providing permanent habita-
tion. Crows are a perpetual source of annoyance to ostriches. They peck
the birds whenever they are out, causing wounds on the back, and some-
times rendering it necessary to keep them in-doors for days together
until the sore heals. Unless shut out bywire-netting and other expedients,
they do not hesitate to attack the ostriches in-doors. The matter is not
so serious during the spring and summer, as the birds can be kept out
at night, but during the winter it is so. The only effectual way of
preventing this state of things is to cover the enclosure over and all
round with wire-netting. This is expensive. Boys with bow and pellets
to shoot the crows are sometimes employed. and for a time the annOyance
ceases; but as soon as the boys become negligent, the crows begin to
assert themselves again.

Food.—-—In their wild state ostriches are omnivorous, feeding on
seeds, fruits, leaves, berries, beetles, locusts, frogs—in fact whatever
comes in their way, taking in quantities of sand, stones, and other hard
substances to help the digestion. In captivity their food consists of
broken biscuits, Indian-corn, oats, and quantities of vegetables; a pound
of beef or mutton meat each may be allowed once a week during the
winter and rains. Some ostriches do not at all care for meat, others do.
Although they may be always seen picking grass for themselves, fresh-
cut grass should now and then be supplied; there should be a good supply
of small stones and .broken bricks in the enclosure for the purpose indi-
cated above.

Breeding.—-Ostriches have repeatedly laid in this garden, but never
have they yet succeeded in hatching out any young.

Transport. ,_ A narrow box-cage should be preferred to a broad one
enabling the bird to turn roun . In providing food for the journey,
sand, grit, and small stones should not be forgotten.

TREATMENT 1N SICKNESS.

Nothing positively is known about their ailments. There have been
deaths of course, and consequently diseases also; but what they were

 

 

 

 

 

 

350 A HAND-BOOK OF THE MANAGEMENT OF ANIMALS

could never have been truly determined. Of the few cases that came
under observation, the diagnosis was supposed to have been correct in
one only; it was that of acute rheumatism: it happened just about
the termination of the rains, and was no doubt brought about by
damp, wet, and close confinement. The patient was hung on a sling, and
anodynes, such as liniments of aconite and camphor, applied to the limbs ;
internally acetate of potash (3% in a dose) was given twice daily, mixed
with treacle and other eatables; but nothing availed: it lingered for
about a month and died. A perfectly healthy male ostrich took ill one
evening in April 1889, and was found dead the next morning. An
autopsy was performed, and every organ was found to be as healthy as
possible. There was a good deal of fat, but not to such an extent as to
endanger life. There was, however, something wrong with the stomach;
it was packed full of the food eaten the previous morning, includ-
ing quantities of small stones and broken bricks. There was no
digestion at all. The contents washed out, its surface was carefully
examined; but nothing unusual could be detected. The case was pro-
nounced to be a most unaccountable one by a competent authority who
was present on the occasion, and to whom the bird was well known,
and was attributed to distention of the stomach. Ostriches have suffered
from cold brought on by exposure to draughts at night during the
winter; the symptoms were—constant running from the nose, prostra-
tion, dullness, and want of appetite; temperature was high, and prob-
ably there was fever also; the bird was kept in-doors and provision
made to secure its warmth at night; to support its strength it was fed
on pounded meal mixed with boiled eggs, but as the patient showed
great disinclination for food it had to be coaxed to eat. After a few days
the animal was allowed to go out for an hour or two in the middle of
the day: under this treatment it recovered in about a month. As a
premonitary symptom of some fatal malady, ostriches have been noticed
more than once to bend their neck in a peculiar way.

Q
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HABITS OF OSTRICHES.

Like the emu, the ostrich is also inquisitive, but never as tame or
familiar ; there is a certain amount of wayward playfulness about it;
the fleetness of an ostrich is remarkable, and some idea of it may be formed
even in captivity; it is seldom at rest during the whole day, and executes
most amusing antics and movements; it emits a deep booming sound,
accompanied by much inflation of the neck. Whether from pure inquisi-
tiveness or from a mischievous pleasure it finds in annoying a man,
an ostrich sometimes behaves in a funny way, as thé following instance,
among others, will show. A sweeper woman was one morning engaged
(in cleaning the portion of the road just outs1de the enclosure of an
ostrich. As soon as she came close to it, the bird trotted up and stood
opposite her. She was naturally afraid to stoop and work in front of a
formidable beak so menacingly near. She waited for half a minute, but
the bird would not move; she raised her broom stick and shouted, the
bird was still there. It would strut away for a second or two, but come
back immediately again, and stand there, gently stamping. its feet,
swaying its neck, and flapping its wings, in evident satisfaction at the
bewilderment of the woman.

 

 

IN CAPTIVITY IN LOWER BENGAL.

(402) THE COMMON RHEA.

(RHEA AMERICANA—Weill.)

The rhea is much smaller in size than an ostrich, which it closely
resembles in form; its head and neck are completely covered with
feathers; it has no tail, and possesses three instead of two toes; the
wings are somewhat more developed than in an ostrich.

flab—South America, extending from Bolivia, Peraguay, and
South Brazil to as far south as the Strait of Magelan.

LENGTH OF LIFE IN CAPTIVITY.

Of a pair obtained in November 1885, the female died in about six
months: it never properly recovered. The male met with an accident, and
had to be killed: it lived for about two years in the garden and was
thriving.

TREATMENT IN HEALTH.

With regard to housing and food, it may be treated generally like
an ostrich, which it much resembles in habits also.

W. J.--Reg. N o. 4547J—1,000--14-4-92.

 

 

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3? ,4?)

 

 

   

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