R E A T B U S T A R D .
GREAT BUSTARD.
OTIS TARDA, Linn.
Otis tarda, Linn. S. N. i. p. 264 (1766); Naum. vii. p. 12 ;
Macg. iv. p. 30; Hewitson, i. p. 285 ; Yarn. ed. 4, iii.
p. 193; Dresser, vii. p. 369.
Outarde barbue, French; Trappe, German; Abutarda,
Spanish.
To those interested in the history of British Birds it
is superfluous to state that this fine species, which was
formerly resident and well known in certain counties of
England, and, at least in one district, in Scotland, is
now an exceptional and uncommon straggler to this
country, wherein there are but few tracts remaining in
a condition to suit its habits and tastes. Open country,
without trees or fences, a dry light soil, and freedom
from human disturbance, are essential to the continued
stay of this bird; and although there are still a few
localities in England that afford the natural conditions
just mentioned, our swarming population, its industries,
traffic, recreations, and facilities of locomotion leave but
