fool hen

American  

noun

1. any of various grouse, as the spruce grouse, that can be killed easily because of their relative tameness.

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Etymology

Origin of fool hen

First recorded in 1750–60

Example Sentences

"Dis yere hen allus was a fool hen," Ivy vouchsafed, "givin' trouble an' agony to us-all."

From A Son of the Hills by Comstock, Harriet T. (Harriet Theresa)

It is naturally a confiding bird where it has not been hunted much, and for this reason has been given the name, "fool hen," in many localities.

From Game Birds and Game Fishes of the Pacific Coast by Payne, Harry Thom

"That fool hen isn't fully convinced she wants a family," he said.

From Lydia of the Pines by Morrow, Honoré

I guess that's why it's called the fool hen, though its proper name is the willow grouse.

From The Boy Ranchers of Puget Sound by Bindloss, Harold

This is another of the grouse family that has been given the name of "fool hen," on account of its naturally tame nature.

From Game Birds and Game Fishes of the Pacific Coast by Payne, Harry Thom