226 A SPORTING PARADISE 



answered, faintly at first, then with clearer call 

 and the whirr of swift wings as they came in." 



The above description of this bird is very 

 graphic and correct, with the exception of one 

 serious slip, doubtless a clerical error. " The par- 

 tridges" (rufFed grouse) never whirr in flight 

 unless suddenly flushed, or conscious of pursuit. 

 This whirr, I have already pointed out, is a natural 

 protection against their enemies, and the greater the 

 danger the greater the whirr. I have consulted the 

 very highest authorities, and they distinguish 

 between the flight of this bird when pursued, and 

 when flying naturally at its ease from place to place. 

 Almost all living creatures are more or less actuated 

 with a spirit of curiosity this applies equally to all 

 parts of the world one has only to lie still in 

 the woods for a few hours to realise the interest 

 with which he is regarded by living things that 

 surround him. I have often been peeped at by 

 a rufFed grouse. 



