The SILVER PHEASANT (_Nycthemerus argentatus_, or _Euplocamus
nycthemerus_) differs from the preceding, which in other respects
it closely resembles, in the long ragged crest on its head, and the
wedge-like form of its tail. The feathers of the latter are placed in
heights, those in the centre curving rather towards the sides than
downwards. This magnificent bird is white on the nape and mantle, the
feathers of the latter being traced with delicate zigzag black lines. The
black under side has a steel-blue lustre, the quills are white, edged and
streaked with black; the tail-feathers are similarly coloured, their
markings becoming gradually broader towards the tips. The long thick crest
is glossy black, the bare cheek scarlet, the eye light brown, the beak
blueish white, and the foot coral-red. This species is thirty-two inches
long.
From the date of its first introduction into Europe the Silver Pheasant
has been everywhere regarded as more fitted to be an ornament of our
aviaries than a denizen of our woods, and, when so treated, has rewarded
us for our pains. It may, indeed, be said to be completely naturalised in
a domesticated state, and it could doubtless be established in our woods,
were such a measure desirable; but to effect this with success no other
species of Pheasants must be kept within its precincts, the pugnacious
nature of this tribe of birds not admitting of the near proximity of two
species, as the certain result would be a constant succession of battles,
almost invariably ending, as is known to be the case when the Domestic
Cock and Pheasant meet, in the death of the weaker bird.
[Illustration: THE SILVER PHEASANT (_Nycthemerus argentatus_, or
_Euplocamus nycthemerus_).]
Our country is not, perhaps, after all, well adapted either for this
bird or its near allies, the _Euplocami_, which have been only recently
introduced. The Silver Pheasant has been found to bear confinement well,
and with but ordinary care its propagation is usually attended with
success. After the autumn moult, its pencilled markings are exceedingly
elegant and graceful; as spring advances its rich comb and wattle become
enlarged, and of a most vivid scarlet, offering a striking contrast to its
delicate pea-green bill. The colouring of the female is altogether sombre,
and devoid of that sparkling brilliancy which so eminently adorns her
mate, making him conspicuous even among the gayest of his congeners.
* * * * *
The PHEASANTS PROPER (_Phasiani_) are recognisable by their long tail, the
feathers of which are placed vertically, those in the centre being six
or eight times as long as those at the sides, while those of the upper
tail-covers have ragged or rounded tips. Their head is without a crest,
but has a small upright tuft of feathers close to each ear. The plumage of
the male is always beautiful, often most brilliant; but that of the female
is comparatively sombre, with dark markings. The native countries of these
birds are the mountainous parts of Asia, extending even to Japan; some
species, however, have become naturalised in the temperate part of Europe.
During the day they are found lying concealed in jungles, covers, and long
grass, living in divided societies, of different sex. Towards the spring
they separate into families, consisting of a male and several females;
the party generally taking possession of a certain locality, from which
the commander is very particular in driving away all male intruders. When
suddenly disturbed, they endeavour to escape by using their legs rather
than their wings. Their flight is rapid and noisy when first started, but
is sustained only for a short distance. Various kinds of grain and insects
form their principal food; these are usually sought for at sunset. They
also consume bulbous roots, which are obtained by means of their bill and
feet. Their eggs are deposited on long grass, without any kind of nest,
and are about ten in number.