98 BIRDS 



the hen they are simply dark spots without iridescence. This 

 is a rare species, but very long-lived once it is well estab- 

 lished. It is much more difficult to breed than some others, 

 but success has been attained by at least one American avicul- 

 turist. The normal clutch consists of two eggs, but these 

 are usually followed, after a short interval, by a second 

 pair. 



The only pheasants in which the plumage of the male does 

 not differ from that of the female are the Eared Pheasants 

 (Crossoptilon). But one species of this genus, the Brown 

 Eared Pheasant (C manchuricum) , has ever been alive 

 in private hands. Both sexes are dark brown in color, with 

 flowing white ear-tufts, the arched tail whitish tipped with 

 black. Male and female may be distinguished by the spurs 

 of the former. This species is generally to be obtained 

 from dealers, but of late years it has become rather uncom- 

 mon. Although the Manchurian is of a most quiet disposi- 

 tion and thrives well in captivity, it is a difficult species to 

 breed. A curious characteristic of birds of this species is 

 a tendency to nibble at the tail feathers of their mates. A 

 pair of birds kept in close confinement, without the variety 

 offered by more free range, almost invariably develop this 

 habit, which adds nothing to their good appearance. 



The Fire-back Pheasants are a compact group of eight 

 species, found only in the Malay Peninsula and neighboring 

 islands. As is indicated by their habitat, these birds require 

 artificial heat if they are to do well during the winter. 

 Moreover, all are high-priced and rare, so that, although 

 of great beauty, they are not suitable birds for the novice. 

 The most common species is the Siamese Fire-back (Diar- 

 dig alius diardi), followed by the Bornean and Vieillot's 

 Fire-backs (Lophura). 



The Tragopans (Tragopan) are a group of pheasants 

 distinguishable at a glance from the others. They have no 



