CHAPTER XVII 

 The Argus Pheasant 



The Argus Pheasant is an extremely handsome variety 

 and one that constitutes an adornment to any aviary, as the 

 plumage of the birds is of a most gorgeous character when 

 displayed. Specimens can be seen in the Zoological Society's 

 Gardens, Regent's Park, where the birds have bred in 

 confinement. It is a native of North-west Borneo, likewise 

 of Siam and Malacca. 



There are really two species of Argus Pheasants, a large 

 one [Argus Giganteus) and a small one {Argus Grayi), the 

 prefix "Argus" being derived from the ocelli or eye-like 

 spots on the secondary feathers of the wings, which are not 

 visible when the wing is closed. 



According to accounts given by the late Mr William 

 Davison and others, these birds, in their native haunts, are 

 extremely shy, it being almost impossible to shoot them, 

 though they can be captured by snares. When in captivity 

 they become very tame, readily adapting themselves to their 

 new conditions, though they have a tendency, on being 

 released from confinement, to revert to their old desire for 

 seclusion. 



The total length of the Great Argus Pheasant is nearly 

 6 feet, this being mainly due to the extraordinary length 

 of the tail, which is almost 4 feet. The skin covering 

 the face and neck, or rather a portion of the latter, is quite 

 destitute of feathers, but of an intense blue colour. Although 



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