Companions: Feathered, Furred, and Scaled

Abstract

THESE are vivaciously written reminiscences of Indian animals with which Mr. Donald managed to establish friendly relations. The first is the tale of a bear-cub, Bhaloo, with a strong sense of humour which became very expensive to his owner. The second tells of the rearing of two weaver-birds (Ploceus baya), which justified their reputation for inquisitiveness and educability. A weaver, "carefully and kindly taught, will, within a week, let off a toy cannon, select a particular number out of many cards, and bring it to his master; he will catch a two-anna piece which has been thrown into a well before it reaches the water, and bring it back. Some of his tricks seem absolutely incredible, and yet they are simplicity itself, and one and all may be taught in a couple of days each. The first and most important step in his training is to teach him that an open hand means food, and that a closed fist does not. Everything hinges on his mastery of this secret, and the rest is simple."Of some interest are the instances given of apparent mistakes in building the wonderful nest, such as leaving no doorway.

Companions: Feathered, Furred, and Scaled.

By C. H. Donald. Pp. ix + 159. (London: John Lane; New York: John Lane Co., 1920.) 7s. net.