BIRDS. 



is.", 



only. The chivelua begins the song ; and when he ceases to sing, all 

 song ceases, and not a twitter of bird nor sound of any kind is heard." 



The helmet-quails, two species of which are figured here, are beautiful 

 birds from the western and southwestern states and territories. The 

 Californian form extends along the Pacific 

 coast from Washington Territory south to 

 the Colorado River, where it is replaced by 

 an allied species which has the book name 

 Gambel's partridge. Some of the more 

 prominent differences between the two may 

 be seen in the ornamentation of the head, as 

 shown in our next cut. In appearance and 

 habits they are much alike ; both have the 

 same erectile plumes on the top of the head ; 

 and the following abstract of Dr. Coues's 

 account of Gambel's partridge will do about 

 as well for the other. 



Gambel's quail occurs in Arizona and 

 New Mexico, and in some localities is so 

 abundant that one can hardly see how more fig. 408. — Head of Gambel's partridge 

 could find iood and cover. Where they 



abound they may be found in almost every sort of a situation, — along 

 the roads, on the sand-heaps, or in the security of the settler's cabin ; only 

 the thick pine woods seem unsuited to them. They like the low brush 

 along the creeks ; and the mesquite and mimosa scrub has especial attrac- 

 tions for them. Temperature has little effect ; for they live both in the 

 burning sands of the desert as well as in the mountains where the snow 

 lies on the ground the year round. For food it is not at a loss ; seeds, 

 fruit, and insects all enter into its diet, while the prickly pear and the 

 buds of the willow and mesquite are eaten in their season. 



" A beautiful sight it is to see the enamored pressing suit with all the 

 pomp and circumstance of their brilliant courtships. The firm and stately 

 tread, with body erect and comely shape displayed to the best advantage ; 

 the quivering wings ; the motion of the plumes that wave like the stand- 

 ard of knights-errant ; the flashing eyes ; bespeak proud consciousness of 

 masculine vigor. The beautiful bird glances defiance, and challenges 

 loudly, eager for a rival ; but none disputes, and he may retire, his 

 rights proven. Only a gentler bird is near, hidden in a leafy bower, 

 whence she watches, admiring his bearing, fascinated by the courage 

 she sees displayed, hoping every moment that the next will bring him. 

 dreading lest it may." 



