GALLINACEOUS BIRDS. 



173 



the seeds and grains of different plants. Their flesh and eggs are universally wholesome and very 

 nutritious, while their feathers are employed for a variety of uses. They are peculiarly attentive to 

 their offspring ; and that the increase should keep pace with the wants of man, they are much more 

 prolific than ordinary birds. They are social, live in societies, and are polygamous. They prefer 

 escaping from danger by running, and only take to flight when compelled by necessit)'. They are 

 fond of rolling in the dust ; some nestle on the ground and live only on plains, while others reside in 



SAND GROUSE. 



forests, and always make their nests on trees. The young are usually able to run as soon as they leave 

 the egg, but at night, or on the approach of danger, they shelter themselves under the wing of 

 their mother. 



The SAND GROUSE {Ptcroda) differ in so many essential particulars from allied groups as to 

 make it necessary to regard them, not merely as forming a family, but a distinct tribe of birds, the 

 peculiarity of whose habits, movements, and plumage render them eminently fit to enjoy life in the 

 desert places and sandy wastes which they frequent. The principal characteristics of the Ptcrodtz 

 or Sand Grouse, are a short body, much-arched breast, neck of moderate length, and small, delicate 

 head. The beak is short, slightly arched at its culmen, and compressed at its sides in such a manner 

 as to make it almost round ; the lower mandible becomes thicker towards its tip, the nostrils, 

 situated at the base of the bill, and concealed by the feathers on the brow, are open above, and 



