170 
NESTS AND EGGS OE 
they exist to some extent, and are also to be found over limited portions 
of the Missouri Region, but, doubtless, more esj^ecially about the month of 
the river, and the contiguous country. In the western 23arts of the region 
it is represented by a form which passes with ornithologists as a well- 
defined, genuine variety. In California, it is presumed to be wanting, as 
Dr. Newberry did not encounter any specimens in his explorations ; but 
in the wooded sections of the Cascade Range, where it exists under a new 
varietal name, and also in the valley of the Willamet in Oregon, it is by 
no means an uncommon occujaant. It is in the New England, Middle 
Atlantic and Northern Central States that these birds are to be seen to 
best advantage, and in greatest numbers. West of the Mississippi, if we 
exclude Eastern Kansas, Southern Iowa and the whole of Missouri, they 
occur, if at all, in comparatively small and isolated parties. 
In regions which these Grouse inhabit, they are permanent residents, 
and are never known to move southward with the retreat of warm weath- 
er. They are capable of adapting themselves to climatic variations with 
ease, but not so readily to surface irregularities and their natural concom- 
itants. Dense woods, craggy mountain-sides, and the borders of streams, 
are noted places of resort. Lowlands, especially such as are invested with 
thick growths of small bushes and tall rank gi-asses, are not infrequently 
chosen. When in quest of food and gravel, they are known to quit their 
favorite haunts, and betake themselves to the open road, where groups may 
be seen absorbed in feeding. Not to that extent, however, when the rus- 
tle of a moving leaf, or the crackling of a twig, would pass unnoticed. 
The slightest noise causes a temporary suspension of labor, and a shudder 
of surprise. All of a sudden, and in the most perfect harmony, all heads 
are raised and pointing in the direction whence the noise proceeded. The 
keen visions of these birds are not slow in discerning through the gloomy 
recesses the presence of danger. Should nothing of an alarming character 
manifest itself, a short parley ensues, and business is resumed, but not with 
the same earnestness and apparent lack of care as before. Greater caution 
is observable, and every effort taken to prevent an ambuscade. But let 
