When a Bird of prey unsuccessfully dashes at a Partridge in cover, no power is able to make it take wing, and any one can then lay hands on it without difficulty. A Partridge has even been known to prefer dying in its hiding-place from suffocation to exposing itself to the mercies of its pursuer. The knowledge of these facts has suggested a very simple and effectual method of making Partridges which are wild remain on the ground without flying, till the sportsman is within gun-shot. This is done by frightening them with an artificial Bird of Prey, attached to the tail of a kite, which is flown over them. Partridges make very delicate food of fine flavor, and they are not only shot in their wild state for this purpose, but in some countries are tamed and raised in great numbers, like the domestic fowls, especially the Grey Partridge. We are told of a whole covey of Partridges of this variety in England which were so tame that they could be driven like a flock of Geese. The California Partridge is one of the handsomest of the whole family of Partridges. It is a native of the western shores of North America. It is adorned with a crest, giving it a much finer appearance than that of the plain little brown fellows of the Eastern part of this country. THE GROUSE AND THE HEATHCOCK. [Illustration: Heathcocks Fighting.] There is a great variety of Grouse and Prairie Chickens belonging to this family of Birds. The Pinnated Grouse is a native of the prairies of North America. Its feathers are light brown, occasionally spotted with white. Its call is deep and sonorous, and can be heard for miles in still weather. The Pinnated Grouse is frequently called the Prairie Chicken. They lay from twelve to fourteen eggs and are the most devoted parents. The Black Grouse is about the size of a Pheasant, and is distinguished by the tail, which is divided into two parts composed of four feathers on each side curling outwards. The Ruffled Grouse is an American Bird, but differs from the others in size and habits. The hill-sides, densely covered with evergreens or birch are its favorite resorts, and on the wing, it is remarkable for its swiftness. The Hazel Grouse is suspicious and timid, and hides among the thick foliage of the green trees at the least appearance of danger. This bird flies awkwardly, but runs very swiftly. It is about the size of a Partridge, and its plumage is of a reddish brown color, mixed with white.