12



P. J. Lambert—The Culture of Ornamental Pheasants



were brought to maturity. I can personally vouch for this statement,


I remember the incident well because I bet this man he would not find

a fertile egg. It may be thought that I am dwelling on this subject

rather needlessly but it is important that fanciers should realize that

extensive enclosures are not necessary—-most definitely they are not.


Surely it is a splendid thing to know that all Pheasants cannot

only be kept in a healthy condition in captivity but that their propaga¬

tion is possible ? Of the numerous species that have been imported

into Great Britain and the Continent it is almost true to say that the

Bulwer’s or Wattled Pheasant is the only one that has never been induced

to breed. Perhaps also some of the Crestless Firebacks have not bred

but in this case only very few specimens have reached this country,

but I do know of a few pairs that are now well established and it is

more than possible such will produce fertile eggs next spring. Captain

Scott-Hopkins has a very fine pair of Malayan Crestless: these look the

picture of health and likely breeders. Now that, further specimens

of the Bulwer’s Pheasant have reached England we can hope that this

gorgeous bird will be propagated. Needless to say some species are

very much easier to raise than others. Silvers, Goldens, Amhersts,

and Beeves, also most of the Kaleeges present no difficulties whatever.

Actually in this category the Peacock Pheasants should find a place,

for to my mind they are as easy as Silvers. Again that magnificent

Pheasant, the Elliot, is not difficult but I cannot imagine this chick

being reared unless it can be given its liberty: it is such a wonderful

little forager. There is no chick that finds its own food to such an extent

and no chick is so independent of artificial food. I once had the

misfortune to put my clumsy foot on an Elliot chick; I examined

its crop and there was not a particle of artificial food present; I did

commence to count the number of insects but gave it up. Then we

have the large range of Fireback Pheasants: now these are certainly

more difficult to raise. They appear to thrive for about a month or

six weeks but then if great care is not taken of them they will “ sadden ”

and die. My friend Monsieur Malisoux can rear all the Firebacks quite

easily but I consider he is a law unto himself. I am glad to say that

he has not only joined the Avicultural Society but has promised to

write some articles for us. I venture to state that these articles will



