Bs BIRDS OF SOMERSETSHIRE. 
species, although Yarrell, “for want of space,” gives 
no separate history of it: it appears to me, however, 
to be a distinct species, and therefore to require a 
notice as much as other nearly allied and similar 
species. 
The Ringnecked Pheasant was very many years 
later in its introduction into England than the former 
species. Montagu, who wrote his ‘ Dictionary’ in 
1802, says it was first introduced by the late Duke 
of Northumberland, but he does not give the exact 
date. It now appears to be almost as common as 
the other species, and to have been so frequently 
crossed with it that, in England at least, it would 
be impossible to separate the species, or to rely 
upon getting either of them genuine. 
In food and habits the two species are quite 
similar, and the only distinction in plumage is the 
white ring, or rather half-circle (for I think it never 
quite joins in front), and perhaps a greener hue on 
the long hackles of the rump. ‘The females appear 
to be quite the same, although I have heard keepers 
say they can distinguish the two. 
The egg also is like that of the last species. 
Some other species have lately been introduced 
into England, but have not yet been long enough in 
the country, or become sufficiently established, to 
claim a place amongst British birds. This system 
of crossing appears to me to be mischievous, as 
