GAME-BIRDS 



4°3 



they are quick 011 their feet, and run boldly about even in pools of water. At first 

 they feed on grass seeds, tender leaves, and the gnats and their larva? which abound 

 on marsh and moor during summer ; later on their food consists of berries, leaves, 



WILLOW'. HoLsE IN* WINTER. 



and stalks. In winter the principal food is birch-catkins and young twigs of birch 

 and willow, grains of corn, and other seeds. The feet of the willow-grouse, like 

 those of all ptarmigan, are closely covered with hairy feathers even under the toes, 

 and are thus prevented from sinking into the snow. The willow-grouse generally 

 walks cautiously and quickly with its head bent down, but when startled stands 



