THE PTARMIGANS. 



373 



The Ruffed Grouse (Tetrao umbelliis) is also an American bird, 

 but differs essentially from the last mentioned in size, habits, and 

 selection 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. 



The Hazel Grouse (Bonasia enropcea, Fig. 149) inhabits the same 

 description of country, and has habits very similar to the last 

 mentioned. 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 awkwardly, but runs very swiftly. Its flesh, 



Fig. 148. Black Grouse. 



which is both delicate and savoury, brings a high price in the market. 

 It is not uncommon in France, being frequently met with in the 

 departments of Vosges 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 grey and brown : the male has 

 a large black patch under the throat. 



The Ptarmigans have feet much like those of a Hare, and thence 

 is derived the name Lagopus, which signifies " hare-foot " (\c,ybs, hare ; 

 TTOVS, vroSbs, foot). These birds not only have their tarsi covered with 

 feathers, but also their toes and the soles of their feet. 



The icy regions of both hemispheres, and the summits of lofty 

 mountains, are their habitat. The snow is their favourite resting- 



