RED GROUSE. 203 



but then they become very restless and shy, and are off at the distant 

 sight of the sportsman. In winter, they pack together, and are 

 very wary and unapproachable. On a fine clear frosty morning the 

 cock bird will sit on a " knowe " or hillock, and crow at sunrise, 

 and the peasants regard it as a sign of fine weather; and this 

 morning crowing is more boisterous in early spring when they pair. 

 The cock takes no share in the duties of incubation. He is not 

 far off, however, and on the approach of danger, he utters his 

 warning cry "kok, kok, kok." Directly the young birds are hatched 

 both parents show great diligence and anxiety in attending to them. 



The food of the Red Grouse consists chiefly of the extreme 

 ends of ling and heather, whortle-berry leaves and berries, 

 cranberries, and haws; they are especially fond of oats when 

 they can meet with them. In severe weather they are driven to the 

 low lands, and require their food to be supplied for them. 



With earliest spring 



the Gawcock's call 



Is heard from out the mist, high, on the hill ; 

 But not till when the tiny heatlipr bud 

 Appears, are struck the spring- tinje leagues of love. 

 Kemote from shepherd's hut, or trampled fold, 

 The new-joined pair their lowly mansion pitch, 

 Perhaps beneath the juniper's rough shoots, 

 Or castled on some plant of tufted heath. 

 Surrounded by a narrow sable moat 

 Of swampy moss — 



Grahame — Birds of Scotland. 



Grouse shooting is a very fascinating sport. It is the first of 

 the year. It follows immediately on the Parliamentary session, 

 and occurs at the commencement of the professional holidays. It 

 carries its followers into pure mountain air, and beautiful scenery ; 

 and it requires great perseverance and continued exertion to pursue 

 it successfully. 



And many a weary cast I made. 

 To cuittle the Muir-f owl's tail. 



Scott— Wavej'ley. 



For most people too, it comes but once a year, for a short 



period, and it is therefore as pleasant in anticipation, as it is bright 



to look back upon. 



Trout, salmon, Grouse, and deer, 

 Ply the sportsman all the year. 



