240 



ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS. 



and assisted by the wind, it scuds along with great 

 rapidity. Its flight too is lofty, and capable of being 

 continued for a very considerable time. 



In captivity it is perfectly quiet and peaceable, readily 

 becomes familiarized with man, and seems even solici- 

 tous for his company. When at rest it usually stands, 

 like the other Cranes, upon one leg, with its long neck 

 bent inwards, and its body supported in an almost 

 horizontal position. But if disturbed in its repose, it 

 lengthens out its neck, brings that, together with its 

 body, into an almost vertical line, and assumes a bold 

 and imposing attitude. Its proper note bears a consi- 

 derable resemblance to that of the Crane, and is com- 

 pared by BufFon to the hoarse sound of a trumpet. It 

 has also another note resembling the clucking of a hen, 

 but louder and more disagreeable. Grain of all kinds, 

 but particularly rice, forms its usual food in a state of 

 captivity, and it is especially delighted by the occasional 

 addition of a few living fishes. It is fond of bathing 

 itself, and does not seem to be much affected by the 

 rigours of our northern climate, requiring only to be 

 kept moderately warm during the night and in the 

 colder season of the year. 



