THE COMMON PARTRIDGE. 
101 
Varieties of the partridge frequently occur, the 
most common are those varied with white, which 
sometimes prevails through a whole covey. Speci- 
mens entirely of a cream-colour are also not unfre- 
quent, and here, although the tint may be said to be 
uniform, the various markings of the plumage appear 
conspicuous in different lights, as if from a variation 
of the structure of the feathers. But the most cu- 
rious variety of the partridge is one which, by many 
authors, has been thought to be distinct — the Perdix 
montana. We have given a representation of this 
variety on our next plate, from a specimen in the 
Edinbui'gh Museum. 
THE MOUNTAIN PARTRIDGE. 
Perdix cinerea. — var. Montana. 
PLATE II 
This variety has been said to be more frequently 
found in alpine districts than in lowlands, but they 
are known to mingle occasionally with those of com- 
mon plumage. The colour is remarkable to be as- 
sumed as a variety, though it is often, we may say, 
generally mingled with whitish’ or reddish-white. The 
whole plumage is of deep sienna-brown, and this 
colour, somewhat like that of the common grouse, 
prevails in many species entirely upon the breast. 
