CHAPTER IX 



QUAIL, GROUSE, ETC. 



Of the two hundred species of the grouse familj% sixty 

 only are found in the new world. With few exceptions, 

 these birds are not migratory. After nesting they gather 

 in covies or bevies — birds of one family, which in some 

 species unite and form large flocks. They are usually resi- 

 dent throughout the year where found. 



While usually terrestrial, some use the trees when 

 flushed. Obtaining their food from the ground, they are 

 scratchers, with strong legs and feet and Avell developed 

 nails. The plumage is of dull colors to harmonize with the 

 grass surroundings. These game birds seek safety by hid- 

 ing rather than by their rapid flight, which starts with a 

 whirr as they beat the air with their short, stiff wings. 

 Protective coloration is marked. 



Of the pigeons and doves, twelve species only are found 

 in North America. Some of these are arboreal, others are 

 terrestrial; some are found in forests, others in prairies; 

 some nest in colonies, others in pairs, but they usually 

 flock after the breeding season. When drinking they do 

 not raise the head as do other birds, but keep the bill 

 immersed until they have finished drinking. The young 

 are born naked, and fed by regurgitation. They are less 

 prolific than other game birds, and yet the wild pigeons 

 were formerly our most numerous bird. The mourning 

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