628 



THE GAUR, OR GOUR. 



deepest forests. The watchfulness of this animal is extremely remarkable, as, independ* 

 ently of placing the usual sentries, the Gaurs are said to arrange themselves in a circle 

 while at rest, their heads all diverging outwards, so as to preserve equal vigilance on 

 every side. They may, however, be readily approached if the spectator be mounted on 

 an elephant, as they seem to regard these huge animals without any suspicion or fear. 

 In all probability, the imperturbable indifference with which they look upon the elephant 

 is caused by the fact that the elephant is never used in Gaur-hunting, and, unless 

 accompanied by human beings, never attempts to attack these animals. 



The temper of the Gaur is naturally mild and equable, and, as a general fact, the 

 herds are quite harmless. Solitary hermit Gaurs, however, are occasionally found and 

 are extremely irascible and vicious, concealing themselves in the deepest thickets, and 





GAUR, OR (JOUR. Bibos Gaums. 



suddenly springing at any unfortunate traveller. One of these animals has been known 

 to drive his intended victim up a tree and watch at its foot for a space of twenty-four 

 hours, only vacating its post when killed by the companions of the imprisoned hunter. 

 The voice of the Gaur is rather peculiar, being totally different from the bellow 

 of an ordinary bull or the lowing of a cow, and partaking greatly of the nature of a 

 grunt, or hoarse cough. The breath of the Gaur is even sweeter than that of the 

 domestic cow, and is. plainly perceptible at a distance of several yards. The skin of 

 this animal is extremely thick, especially on the shoulders and hinder quarters. The 

 hide of these parts of the animal will sometimes measure nearly two inches in thick- 

 ness when it has been removed from the Gaur and permitted to contract during the 

 process of drying. On account of its great strength, this portion of the skin is much 

 esteemed for the purpose of being manufactured into shields. The flesh of the Gaur is 

 said to be remarkably tender, and of good flavor. 



