THE NEST OF THE PINNATED GROUSE. 193 



not slow to avail themselves of the advantage, and 

 pounce upon the unfortunate conquerors, who, but 

 for their now-exhausted condition, resulting from 

 their prowess, could easily have avoided the relentless 

 destroyer. 



As soon as the victor has made his choice he retires. 

 The same scenes are again and again enacted till all 

 are mated. 



Like the turkey-cock and domestic pigeon, when 

 making love they ruffle their feathers, drop their 

 wings and tails, and strut about with more pomposity 

 than ever did city beau. 



The nest, which is generally placed upon the top of 

 a hillock among the long grass, in shape is irregular, 

 but on examination it will be found carefully constructed 

 of leaves and interwoven grasses. The eggs are a 

 trifle smaller than those of the domestic fowl, and are 

 of a dull, yellowish colour, much resembling those of 

 the ruffed grouse. In eighteen or nineteen days they 

 are hatched, and the chicks leave their nest imme- 

 diately afterwards. From this period the female is 

 deserted by her mate, and until severe weather causes 

 them to pack, the old males and females are not found 

 again together. 



By the first week in August the young are capable 

 of short flights, although not exceeding our par- 

 tridge in size, and if shot thus early, which is too 

 frequently the case, it is difficult to imagine more 

 delicious food; but they will not bear keeping, and 

 sooner taint than any other game-bird I am acquainted 

 with. 



Although the pinnated grouse seldom leave the open 

 country, yet if winter be excessively severe they will 



