THE BIRDS OF INDIA. 219 



The general colour is brownish red, with green and gold 

 metallic glossy reflections ; the forehead is white, and 

 there is a patch of the same colour on the shoulders ; the 

 bill is dark red, and the legs and feet coral red. 



The female is much smaller than the male, but otherwise 

 resembles him, except that her metallic colouring is not so 

 vivid ; the young resemble their mother at first, but the 

 young males soon appear larger than the females. 



These birds do not appear to mind the severest winter 

 more than do our native pigeons ; they breed freely, that 

 is. two or three times in the season, laying two rather 

 round white eggs on an apology for a nest, consisting of a 

 few twigs carelessly collected together on any convenient 

 ledge or shelf. 



Any kind of small corn makes suitable feeding for them, 

 but a little of Spratt's Patent Crissel is useful as a change, 

 and they must have salt and gravel at their disposal, as 

 well as some green food. 



NICOBAR PiGEOX. — This tine pigeon is most resplendently 

 attired, the long pointed feathers of the neck and flanks 

 glistening with the brightest of metallic tints, among 

 which green and gold predominate ; the tail is short, 

 square, and pure white. It is fairly hardy, but on account 

 of its rarity is dear, and, consequently, it has not been fully 

 proved as regards its powers of resistance to cold. 



It should be fed and treated as recommended for the last 

 species. Length about 14 inches ; body plump. 



GROUSE. 



Family — PterodidiV. 



Genus — Pterodes. P. fdsdatus. Banded Sand Grouse. 



