14 THE CAPERCAILLIE. 



appears to be no trace whatever of remains of Capercaillies 

 in Scottish kitchen-middens, nor amongst any pre-historic re- 

 mains. Birds' bones are comparatively rare in these ash-pits, 

 and this may be accounted for by their having been destroyed 

 by dogs. Still, some birds' remains are found occasionally ; 

 and possibly, if attention be especially directed to them, some 

 pre-historic trace of the Capercaillie may yet be found in 

 Scotland or Ireland. 



