286 



CHINA GEESK. 



D. T. KING'S CHINESE GEESE. 



The above portrait is said to be a very good representation 

 of China geese owned by Mr. King, from whom I have received 

 the following description : 



MR. MINER Sir : It is somewhat remarkable that this rare and 

 beautiful bird, so striking in its appearance, should have escaped so 

 generally the notice of the different writers of systematic works on 

 ornithology. Doubtless the uncertainty that has existed as to its 

 correct name, and true native country, may be one cause of this. 

 Like the Poland fowl, it has been furnished with a variety of names, 

 and original native places. Some call it the " India Goose," others, 

 the " Mountain Goose ;" Bewick calls it the "Swan Goose." The 

 tubercle at the base of the bill, the unusual length of neck, and its 

 graceful carriage in the water, would certainly give it some claim to 

 relationship with the " aristocracy of lake and river." Cuvier calls it 

 the "Chinese Swan," and says, "that it cannot be separated from the 

 true swan." A goose, however, it decidedly is, as is clear from its 

 terrestrial habits, its powerful bill, and its diet of grass, and it is now 

 generally admitted that it came from China. Indeed, from its general 

 aspect, the dark brown stripe down its neck, its small bright eye, its 

 wild, harsh voice, its majestic step, and its seldom being in a hurry, 

 would perfectly harmonize in a picture of Chinese life ; it would group 



