46 ilQUIPMENT. 



lar place. Where they are thickest they care 

 most to be. On putting them out, note how they 

 leave the pond ; they will almost invariably return 

 from that direction. They seldom take a round- 

 about course. Note the position of the sun and 

 time of day, remembering the sunny side of the 

 pond is best for decoys. Note, also, the direction 

 and force of the wind, and its probable influence 

 on the ducks. From a proper consideration of these 

 and various other little items, not easily enume- 

 rated here, J will suppose its location determined. 

 Now, if a natural blind can be found, such as an 

 old tree-top or roots, a bunch of bushes, or such 

 like, in a suitable position, it should, of course, be 

 taken in preference to building a new one, as the 

 ducks, accustomed to the object, have become 

 familiar with it, and, having no suspicions of 

 danger, do not hesitate to approach ; but if such 

 a blind is not to be had, your next course will 

 be to decide upon the most suitable materials 

 handy for building an artificial one, and these, with 

 its shape, should be selected as nearly as possible 

 in consonance with the nature of the surroundings, 

 an improper selection exciting observation, and 

 consequently suspicion. Take plenty of time and 

 build your blind well ; make it look as natural 



