236 Capt. L. H. Irby on Birds 



to some species of Goatsucker, from their appearance. All the 

 Indian Sand Grouse are indiscriminately called " Rock-Pigeons " 

 by Europeans. 



112. Francolinus vulgaris. (Black Partridge.) 



This very handsome Partridge is found in great numbers in 

 all grass jungle near water, and is particularly numerous on the 

 banks of the Gogra, Choka, and other large rivers. Good sport 

 is to be had with them in November, in the huldee or turmeric 

 fields. This Partridge was common in Kumaon in April, May, 

 and June; its call was to be heard wherever there was any 

 cultivation. 



113. Caccabis chukar. (Chickore.) 



Common in Kumaon on bare and rocky hill-sides: is very 

 common at a place called Jullut or Moonsheyaree, seven days^ 

 march from Almorah. The flesh of the Chickore is considered 

 good. The eggs, brought to me in May, resembled those of 

 Perdix cinerea, not having any spots or markings like those of 

 Caccabis rufa. 



114. Perdix ponticeriana. (Grey Partridge.) 

 Common throughout the year : breeds in July and August : 



has acquired the unenviable name of " Dung-bird,'' probably 

 from feeding on the beetles and insects which feed on the refuse 

 of camps. Its flesh is dry and scarcely eatable, being a degree 

 worse than that of the Black Partridge. Both the Grey and 

 Black Partridge will settle on trees when flushed, though the 

 latter very seldom does so. 



115. Arboricola torqueola. (Peurah.) 



Abundant in Kumaon, in the woody and more elevated ranges. 

 Is easily decoyed within shot by imitating its whistle, which 

 resembles somewhat the words "poor hoy " two or three times 

 repeated. 



116. Perdicula asiatica. 



Common in jungle : rather difficult to flush. 



117. CoTURNix VULGARIS. (Common Quail.) 

 Exceedingly numerous during the cold and first part of the 



hot season. 



