86 
NESTS AND EGGS OF 
pursuers. It will not lie to a clog, as our Eastern species is wont to do, 
but runs until driven to seek safety in flight. 
Throughout California these birds are often domesticated, and made 
to consort with the common barnyard fowl. A similar practice might be 
tried in the East with hajjpy results. That it would succeed, there can be 
no reasonable doubt. A few years ago, an attempt was made to introduce 
them into Long Island, which was only partially successful. But the 
demands of New York epicures soon led to their extermination. 
The season of flocking being over, which continues from the first of 
September until about the middle of May, as nearly as we can ascertain, 
the coveys break u]) into j)airs, and mating is about to commence. This 
important event is heralded by certain peculiar cries which the male-birds 
emit while sitting upon a stump or prostrate log in the midst of the sur- 
rounding verdure. These notes are very strange, and may be likened to 
the harsh and disagreeable tones of some of the Woodpeckers. “They 
may be aptly represented,” says Dr. Newberry, “ by the syllables kfick- 
kuck-kuck-ka, the first three notes being rapidly repeated, the last 
longed with a falling inflection.” 
Language can hardly describe the actions of the males during these 
times. While some may be seen strutting along some fallen log, or ges- 
ticulating overhead on the motionless tree-branches, others, less lofty in 
their aspirations, move with dignified demeanor in and out the bushes, 
untrammeled by interlacing grasses. All, however, seem animated by one 
common imj^ulse — the admiration and favor of birds less beautiful, 2:>erhaps, 
but more modest, than themselves. 
It is a charming sight, and one ever to be remembered, to watch 
these enamored birds as they press their several suits. The stately tread, 
erect but comely carriage, waving plumes, quivering wings, and flashing 
eyes, bespeak the proud consciousness of superior worth and vigor. The 
beautiful bird glances defiantly about him, and challenges loudly for a 
