Page:Mongolia, the Tangut country, and the solitudes of northern Tibet vol 2 (1876).djvu/138

116, 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.

(after a Drawing by J. E. Winterbottom, Esq., lent by Dr. Hooker).