22 PET BIRDS or BENGAL 



The characteristic difference hetween the 

 Shaina and the Dhayal is that while the 

 former confines itself solely to the most 

 secluded depths of forests, the latter, though 

 not unknown in the solitude of 

 woods, seldom strays very far from 

 the vicinity of man. Its graceful 

 form is always in evidence around us. Early 

 at dawn, before other members of the fledged 

 tribes are astir, it pours forth its music in 

 a continuous stream from the foliage. At 

 noon it is generally busy, silently foraging 

 for food in the chequered shades of gardens 

 and orchards. While thus engaged, the 

 approach of man does not seem to ruffle its 

 composure, and except bestowing a half- 

 amusing quizzical look, it cares no more for 

 your presence than for that of any other 

 living thing. At the same time, it will not 

 allow you to take any undue liberty with it. 

 If it notices that you are trying to come very 

 near, it will fly away a few yards, and per- 

 ching on the branch of a tree, regard your 

 discomfiture with a sublime complacency or 



