104 
THE COMMON PARTRIDGE. 
contest, that they actually held the crow till it was 
seized, and taken from them, by the spectator of 
the scene. Upon search, the young birds (very 
lately hatched) were found concealed amongst the 
grass. It would appear, therefore, that the crow, 
a mortal enemy to all kinds of young game, in at- 
tempting to carry off one of these, had been attacked 
by the parent birds, and with the above singular 
success.” Such displays are, however, comparatively 
seldom witnessed, or indeed exercised, for nature 
has implanted another device in the greater num- 
ber of this family, in which the organs of defence 
are in reality weak, against their many assailants. 
Stratagem is resorted to, and the parent feigns lame- 
ness, and even death, to withdraw the aggressor. The 
noise and confusion which occurs when a person sud- 
denly, and unawares, comes on a young brood of par- 
tridges, is remarkable. The screams of the parents, 
apparently tumbling and escaping away with broken 
legs and wings, is well acted, and often succeeds in 
withdrawing the dog, and his young attendant, be- 
yond the possibility of discovering the hiding places 
of the brood. When this is attained, their wonted 
strength is soon recovered, a flight to a considerable 
distance is taken — but by the time the aggressor has 
reached the marked spot, the bird has again circui- 
tously come up with her charge, and is ready again 
to act her part if discovered. 
During the breeding season, all the colours of the 
plumage of the Partridge become deeper, and in the 
male, the skin above the eyes showing a modification 
