154 TETRAONHLE. 



complete establishment of the Prairie-hen, with all its 

 good qualities. 



The Ptarmigan, Willow-grouse, or White-grouse (Lago- 

 pus albus) is mentioned by Dr. Hall* as one of the birds of 

 the Montreal district, though its general range is in rather 

 higher regions, its northern limit being about latitude 70. 



The male bird weighs on an average about two 

 pounds, and its plumage in summer is a reddish grey 

 on the upper parts, closely marked with zig-zag lines. 

 On the breast and sides are a great number of black 

 feathers waved with a light reddish colour, and the 

 under parts, breast and wings, together with the feet, 

 are pure white. The male has a black mark or stripe 

 crossing the eye, and a scarlet cicatrice over it. The 

 female has neither of the latter distinctions. 



The winter plumage is perfectly white, with the ex- 

 ception of the tail; this is chiefly black, and there are 

 one or two brown feathers in the wings. 



The female lays from eight to twelve eggs, and some- 

 times more ; they are of a yellowish colour, marked with 

 dark brown spots. 



The Ptarmigan lives in winter on the buds, seeds, and 

 young tops of the willow, whence its other name of 

 Willow-grouse. 



* Can. Nat. Geo., Montreal. 



