34 GAME BIRDS OF INDIA AND ASIA. 



found, however, above 15,000 or below 4,500 feet 

 at any time. 



It is usually a forest bird, although in summer 

 it may be found out on the grassy slopes above 

 the level of trees. Only a few are seen in com- 

 pany, males being more solitary than females. 

 The food is especially composed of grubs and roots, 

 the Monaul being much addicted to digging, an 

 operation it performs with its beak, for it does not 

 scratch like most birds of this family. The com- 

 paratively large bill, however, forms a most effec- 

 tive hoe, and the bird is probably of great use in 

 the forest in turning over the surface and destroy- 

 ing insect pests. . 



It is likewise most excellent eatmg, and carries 

 a great deal of meat, so that it is in every waj' a 

 bird to be encouraged. 



The Monaul breeds in May and June, the hen 

 laying sometimes as many as six eggs, but gener- 

 ally fewer, in a nest imder a bush or tuft of grass. 

 The eggs are buff, speckled with brown, like turkey's 

 eggs. The display of the cock is of the frontal 

 type, the attitude being much like that of the 

 turkey. His call is a loud plaintive whistle, unlike 

 the harsh notes of most birds of this family ; and 

 the hen's note is similar. 



It is worth knowing, considering how many 

 people now reside in the hUls for long periods, 

 that the Monaul is capable of complete domesti- 

 cation ; the birds may be brought up so tame that 

 they can be allowed to go about at large like poul- 

 try. The species is also a very suitable one for 

 acclimatisation as a game bird wherever congenial 

 localities exist, as it affords good sport, being wary 



