it is to be noted, are only to be witnessed soon after sunrise. 
Two blackcocks will approach one another and stand as if 
prepared to ward off a very vigorous onslaught ; reminding 
one of two barn-door cockerels. With lowered head and 
neck they face one another, the beautiful lyrate tail spread 
fan-wise, and arched so that the curled, outer feathers touch 
the ground, while the wings are trailed like those of the turkey- 
cock. Then one will at last rush forward, and seizing his 
adversary by the scruff of the neck, will administer a sound 
beating with his wings. The victor celebrates his triumph 
by a loud, and most unmusical screech, which has been 
likened, by that accomplished observer and sportsman- 
artist, Mr. J. G. Millais, to the call of cats on the house-tops 
at midnight. But presently a greyhen makes her appearance. 
Hostilities cease at once, on all sides ; and intense excitement 
prevails amongst the whole assembly—for a large number of 
cocks will gather together at these sparring matches. Her 
approach has been observed by a single bird, who, unin- 
tentionally, gives the signal by suddenly drawing himself up 
to a rigid position of attention, till he is sure she is really 
coming, then he throws himself into the air and flutters up 
a few feet, uttering at the same time, a peculiar hoarse note 
of exultation. Immediately all the others follow suit; each 
seeming to strive to outdo his neighbour in a series of absurd 
pirouettings. Here we have a “ Love-flight,” of exceedingly 
Igo 
