This bird has been described by Linnæus and others as a distinct species, or mixed breed between the black and wood grous. It is said to differ from the black grous in having reddish spots on the neck, breast, wings, and thighs, and in being of a superior size. It is said to have been formerly met with in Scotland.—Montagu.
Black-tail, s. The ruff or pope; a small fish.
Bladder, s. That vessel in the body which contains the urine; a blister, a pustule.
Blade, s. The spire of grass; the green shoots of corn. The sharp or striking part of a weapon or instrument.
Bladebone, s. The scapula, or scapular bone.
Bladed, a. Having blades or spines.
Blain, s. A pustule, a blister.
Blank, s. A void space.
Blank-day, s. A sporting term, used when a cover is drawn without success. It is also applied when shooters are kept in-doors by severity of weather, tired dogs, &c.
Blay, s. A small whitish river-fish; a bleak.