PLATE XX 



WHITE EARED-PHEASANT 



Crossoptilon tibetanum (Hodgson) 



Although clad dominantly in white, these pheasants do not live in the snow, but retreat before the 

 early storms of winter downward into the valleys. Their home is in south-eastern Tibet and central China, 

 among the wildest mountains. Except in the breeding season they are gregarious, living in flocks and 

 often associating intimately with the tiny musk deer. They keep to thick cover and are ever on the watch 

 for the great eagles which swoop down upon them without warning. The Tibetans of this region are very 

 superstitious and allow no animals and birds to be killed when they can prevent it. So the race of 

 " Shaggas," as they are called, has a good chance for existence as long as the lamas wield this kindly 

 influence. 



