It is well known that this bird is taught by the Chinese to fish for
them. A gentleman of Scotland some years ago obtained two young ones,
which he succeeded in domesticating. They soon learned to fish on their
own account, and when satisfied, would amuse themselves by quitting and
retaking their prey. They sometimes remained for a whole day on board
of ships when they were kindly treated, and when these sailed, they
would accompany their friends to sea for a few miles. They were very
familiar, but would not submit to be teased. When shot at, they always
flew to the first person they saw belonging to their master's family,
for protection. Their owner had their heads painted white, in order to
distinguish them from the wild ones with whom they frequently
associated.