PIN-TAIL DUCK. 225 
The time to shoot at them is just as they are flutter- 
ing to light. They are then stationary and easy to hit; 
but after your first barrel is fired, look out for high and 
lofty tumbling, for they will rise with a jump. So be 
prepared, and hold high over them, and give them the 
second barrel as soon as you can get aim. Use strong 
powder, and 1 1-8 oz. No.6 chilled shot, and if you hold 
right, they can be killed forty and fifty yards with choke- 
bored guns. 
I do not believe there is any duck that frequents 
Western waters, that gives the hunter greater satisfac- 
tion in shooting than these birds, principally because 
of their wild, wary natures. It takes strategy to kill 
them, and after one has become proficient in finding, 
decoying and shooting them, he feels that his utmost 
skill will be taxed to make a good day’s “bag.” Just 
before flying from land or water, they walk or swim 
together, and raking shots, doing great execution, may 
be had. This is also the case when they fly up. They 
then huddle together, and several may be killed at one 
discharge of the gun. Should the hunter attempt 
flight-shooting at * travelers,” his gun will be thorough- 
ly tested. He should use nothing smaller than a ten- 
bore,—that should be heavy, full choked, loaded with 6 
dms. powder, 1 0z. No. 2 or 3 shot, and he should 
hold from 10 to 20 feet ahead of them. 
They afford delicious eating, feeding as they do on 
rich, nutritious and substantial food, and are invaria- 
bly in excellent condition for the table. 
Anas Acuta. The pin-tailduck is twenty-six inches in 
length, and two feet ten inches in extent; the bill is a 
dusky lead color: irides, dark hazel; head and half the 
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