THE WILLOW GROUSE 51 



pined away and died for the lack of their for- 

 est freedom. 



Would that someone might solve this prob- 

 lem of grouse-breeding if only to aid in restock- 

 ing our covers. But the prospect brightens 

 each year with the education of our people 

 and the consequent growing sentiment in favor 

 of rigid game protection. Give the Ruffed 

 Grouse half a chance and he will take care of 

 the matter of future game supply. There is 

 nothing in our wilds so thoroughly able to take 

 care of itself as Mr. Bonasa Umbellus. Let us 

 be duly thankful therefor. 



THE WILLOW GROUSE. PTARMIGAN. 



(Lagopus lagopus.) 



Very rare in New England. When found it 

 is only in the northernmost sections and in the 

 coldest weather, when a few straggle away 

 from the great flocks which come down out of 

 the north at the approach of winter, for it is 

 partially migratory and changes quarters 

 southward at this season. In earlier times 

 these birds seem to have been not uncommon in 

 northern and eastern Maine in the winter 



