POULTRY TRIBE. 269 



consumption of grain is less, and the quantity of 

 noxious weeds and insects devoured by him at all 

 seasons of the year is great. 



There are few more interesting sights than a 

 family of partridges. In the day they keep together, 

 and are seldom seen on the wing, unless disturbed. 

 They frequent grass fields, preferring the hedge- 

 sides. They feed only in the morning and in the 

 evening, and bask during the heat of the day, or 

 dust themselves in dry spots, where the soil is 

 loose; the young and weak birds being often 

 much troubled with parasites. As soon as the 

 evening meal is over, and the insects begin to 

 buzz, their call is heard, and off they move to 

 some spot where they " jug," or roost, for the night, 

 nestled close on the ground, in a cluster, keeping 

 their heads outwards, and tails to the centre. 

 Some covies occupy the same spot, if not disturbed, 

 for a fortnight or more ; and others change their 

 quarters every night. 



The attachment of partridges to their young is 

 proverbial. Both parents lead them out to feed, 

 and assist them in procuring food by scratching 

 the ground with their feet. They frequently sit 

 close together, and cover the young ones with 

 their wings ; and from this situation they are not 

 easily roused. But most persons know if they be 

 disturbed what ensues. The male utters a cry of 



