THE WILLOW GROUSE dl 
pined away and died for the lack of their for- 
est freedom. 
Would that someone might solve this prob- 
lem of grouse-breeding if only to aid in restock- 
ing our covers. But the prospect brightens 
each year with the education of our people 
and the consequent growing sentiment in favor 
of rigid game protection. Give the Ruffed 
Grouse half a chance and he will take care of 
the matter of future game supply. There is 
nothing in our wilds so thoroughly able to take 
care of itself as Mr. Bonasa Umbellus. Let us 
be duly thankful therefor. 
THE WILLOW GROUSE. PTARMIGAN. 
(Lagopus lagopus.) 
Very rare in New England. When found it 
is only in the northernmost sections and in the 
coldest weather, when a few straggle away. 
from the great flocks which come down out of 
the north at the approach of winter, for it is 
partially migratory and changes quarters 
southward at this season. In earlier times 
these birds seem to have been not uncommon in 
northern and eastern Maine in the winter 
