THE SAND-GROUSE. 



(PTEROCLETES.) 



The Sand-Grouse are well represented in 

 India, where no less than eight species 

 are met with. 



They are essentially birds of large bare 

 plains and deserts, and frequently occur 

 in flocks of immense size, but more 

 usually in small companies. They are 

 birds of very strong and rapid flight. 

 Their wings are long and pointed. Their 

 legs are short, but they nevertheless run 

 with ease. Their plumage is handsome, 

 and the colours harmonise well with the 

 soil, sand and stones, of the localities they 

 frequent. 



The Sand-Grouse make no nest, but 

 deposit their eggs on the bare ground in 

 any small depression. The eggs are 

 elliptical in shape and much spotted. 

 The young can run as soon as they are 

 hatched. 



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