THE HAZEL GEOUSE. 



40;i 



affords good sport to the lovers of the gun. The Pinnated Grouse, 

 frequently called Prairie Chicken or Hen, pair in March ; they 

 lay from twelve to fourteen eggs, and are most devoted parents. 

 Of this species there are two strongly-marked varieties, differing 

 in size and formation of tail. 



The Ruffed Gtrouse (Fig. 1 60) is also an American bird, but 

 differs essentially from the last mentioned in size, habits, and selec- 

 tion of food. The hill- sides, densely covered with evergreens or 

 birch, are its favourite retreats ; on the wing it is remarkable for 

 its swiftness. Although not migratory, it is very erratic. 



Fig. 160. — Buffed Grouse { Tctrao umbellus, Aud.). 



The Hazel Grouse, or Gelixotte {Bonasia europcea, Gray), 

 inhabits the same description of country, and has habits very 

 similar to the Black Grouse. Like them, it is suspicious and 

 timid, and hides itself among the thick foliage of the green 

 trees at the least appearance of danger. This bird flies awk- 

 wardly, but runs very swiftly. Its flesh, which is both deli- 

 cate and savoury, brings a high price in the market. It is 

 much less rare in France than the Cock of the Woods, and is 

 frequently met with in the departments of Yosges and Ardennes. 

 It is about the size of a Partridge, and the prevailing colour of its 



plumage is a reddish brown mixed with white, or variegated with 



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