20 WILD LIFE OF SCOTLAND 



lovers of wild nature are unacquainted with the 

 spring rush, or rumble of the snipe's wing, as he 

 descends through the air. 



But these are only fragments. In the case of 

 the game-birds, we have an amorous ritual 

 approaching completeness, which is annually re- 

 hearsed from beginning to end. Grouse pair early, 

 and their becking season cornes long before the 

 tardy snow is off the heather. They begin soon in 

 the day, as well as in the year. The male bestirs 

 himself to sport with the female in the dim light 

 of the breaking day ; long before anyone, but the 

 poacher, is there to see. Rising in the air, he 

 indulges in short playful flights, uttering, as he 

 descends towards some favourite knoll, the peculiar 

 cry which has given rise to the name of " becking." 

 The female responds; and he continues his advances 

 until daylight puts a stop to the merry madness. 



More imposing is the ritual, in the case of those 

 species which claim a plurality of wives. The 

 blackcock chooses some open in the woods, and, ere 

 the first flush of dawn, is in his place, and ready to 

 begin. He trails his wings, erects his tail-feathers, 

 makes extraordinary leaps, and fights with rivals. 

 The tournament continues till the victor is left in 

 peaceful possession of his harem. 



