2-982-419 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Markore (Capra megaceros), 1858. 'This animal is a native of certain parts of the Western Himalayas, and is likewise found in the high ranges of Persia and Affghanistan. Markore implies "serpent-eater," the native idea being that the species destroys snakes; but this is very doubtful. It is generally seen in small herds: the male has an enormous pendent beard, extending from the chin downwards, covering the front of the chest and the knees. In keenness of sight the markore rivals the ibex, and from the situations it frequents offers one of the most exciting, at the same time dangerous, sports imaginable. The hunter...must possess every requisite of his craft who would follow these noble animals over their dangerous and difficult ground, for among shattered rocks and precipices high up in the regions of perpetual snow it delights to sport...The subject of the Sketch is perhaps one of the largest males ever procured: it was killed in the summer of 1854 by Dr. Adams, 22nd Regiment, on the Peer Pinjal Mountains, forming the southern barrier to the Vale of Cashmere. It measured 11 ½ hands at the shoulder. The length of its horns was 48½ inches, and the distance between the points of the horns was 3 feet 2 inches'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858.