on Willow Grouse.



2 55



time in a very small space, yet they are not in the same spirits

and are far more likely to be attacked by disease.


The enclosure might be surrounded by wire netting about

nine or ten feet high, supported on larch poles—the netting at

the top being turned at least two feet horizontally outwards so as

to prevent climbing by cats, etc. As to the mesh, the three feet

near the ground should be three-quarters of an inch and for the

rest 2-inch mesh should suffice ; of course the netting should be

let a foot or so into the ground.


I should dig a few irregular hollows (throwing the exca¬

vated earth into mounds alongside) and in and near the hollows

place some large blocks of limestone. The birds love to crouch

alongside these. As to planting, I should suggest 75 birches

about 3 ft. high, topped and planted at an angle of 45 degrees—

also groups of Pimis montana , savins and other junipers, a few

Irish and winter heaths, crowberry, white and other brooms,

roses of sharon, etc. These will soon form a pretty picture and

the birds will feel infinitely more at home than if in strange

surroundings. Moreover, shelter from the hot sun in summer is,

I think, essential—hence my preference for a northern slope.

No planting should be done within a few feet of the outside wire,

or the birds will be tempted to lie near the wire and so attract

passing enemies. I11 the breeding season the enclosure would

have to be divided, but wire netting about 4 ft. high could be

temporarily put down for this purpose.


As to feeding on birch and willow twigs in winter and

spring, I think it is quite hopeless to grow these in the enclosure

itself; the best plan is to get a stock of branches and lay them in

trenches in a sheltered part of the garden and give to the birds

when wanted. The branches will keep fresh for months. I

have found it necessary to cut the feathers of one wing as well as

pinioning the birds, as, if the situation is exposed a gale will

occasionally carry even a pinioned bird to a great height.


One or two recent attempts to introduce Willow-Grouse

into Scotland have been unsuccessful—the white winter plumage

of the birds having proved too attractive a mark for natural

enemies. However the Willow-Grouse give one such charming

visions of wild life that I would venture to strongly urge their

claims on all aviculturists who can give the necessary space.



