292 APPENDIX. 



The next genus which affords anything likely to be of value 

 in the poultry-yard is that of Pavo, or Peacock. There are 

 three known species belonging to this genus, of which the P. 

 Cristatus is the one generally known. This bird used to be 

 highly valued for the table, and I see no reason why it should 

 not be again. 



The next genus likely to afford valuable poultry is one 

 closely allied to the preceding, viz., that of Polyplectron. 

 All the species of this genus, though much smaller than the 

 peacock, quite rival them in brilliancy of plumage. Some 

 species, particularly P. bicalcaratum and P. thibetanum, are 

 frequently domesticated in their native country, (India ;) and I 

 think that they might be easily introduced here, as they are 

 found mostly in mountainous countries, where the climate is 

 quite cold at some seasons of the year. They have two and 

 sometimes three spurs on each leg, whence their name. 



Next comes the genus Phasianus, or Pheasants. These birds 

 are more valuable in a wild state, in parks and preserves, on 

 account of their beauty, and the sport afforded in shooting 

 them, than as mere poultry. Our winters, however, are too 

 cold for them. 



Next to this comes the most valuable genus to the poulterer 

 of any yet mentioned, that of Gallus, or Cock. Our present 

 domestic varieties are derived principally from the G. Bankiva, 

 but some of the larger varieties probably come from G. gigan- 

 teus, and G. aeneus, and perhaps from some of the other large 

 species. The native country of this genus is India and its 

 islands. In the same country is also found another genus, 

 some species of which are frequently domesticated by the 

 natives. It is that of Gallophasis, Cock-pheasants, which could 

 undoubtedly be introduced here. The most common species 

 are G. ignitus, or fire-backed pheasant, and G. erythropthalmus, 

 or red-eyed pheasant. 



