shan, and kept in large numbers by the Mongols in Northern Khalkas, a hilly, well-watered, and grassy country—indispensable conditions for the well-being of this animal which only thrives at a certain level above the sea. Yaks cannot exist without plenty of water; they are fond of bathing, and are excellent swimmers; we saw them more than once swim across the rapid Tatung-gol, although carrying packs. The domestic yak is of the same size as our cattle; the hair is black or black-and-white; they are very seldom entirely white. Notwithstanding their long domestication, they still retain a good deal of their wild nature; their movements are quick and agile, and when enraged they are very dangerous.[1]
The Yak (after a Drawing by J. E. Winterbottom, Esq., lent by Dr. Hooker).
- ↑ For an account of the domestic yak, see 'The Abode of Snow,' by A. Wilson, chap. xiii. Hooker's 'Himahiyan Journals,' i. 212 seqq., and 'Marco Polo,' 2nd ed., i. 268 seqq.—M.
