gamble's partridge. 
201 
when they are in full plumage, and capable of shift- 
ing for themselves. 
Gamble’s Partridge is an inhabitant of Texas, and 
was first discovered and introduced to notice by Dr. 
William Gamble, in 1841. For beauty of plumage 
it probably far surpasses any other species. The rich 
chestnut-colored feathers which cover the sides, the 
white markings upon the face and sides of the head, 
and the singular plumes with which the head is or- 
namented, give it a very sprightly and pleasing ap- 
pearance. 
General George A. M’Call, in his “ Remarks on 
the habits of Birds met with in Western Texas, be- 
tween San Antonio and the Rio Grande, and in New 
Mexico,” speaking of this bird, says : “After losing 
sight of the Massena Partridge, I did not fall in with 
the present species until we reached the Limpia river, 
about 100 miles west of the Pecos. 
“ This beautiful bird, whose habits, in some re- 
spects, bear resemblance to the common Partridge, 
like that, seems to prefer a more genial and hospita- 
ble region. In this part of the country the Mus- 
quito Tree (Acacia Glandulosa) is more or less com- 
mon • and the Musquito grass, and other plants bear- 
ing nutritious seeds, are abundant. Here, this Par- 
tridge increases rapidly in numbers, and becomes very 
fat; and, as I afterwards ascertained, is much dis- 
posed to seek the farms, if any be within reach, and 
to cultivate the acquaintance of man. About the 
Rancho of Mr. White, near El Paso, I found them 
very numerous ; and here, in flocks of fifty or a hun- 
