CANVAS-BACK DUCK. 261 



with the butt of the gun to the shoulder, and the 

 muzzle just under the flock, be prepared to take 

 advantage on the instant of their bunching or 

 crossing. They will take no notice of you what- 

 ever, if you rise slowly and do not attract their 

 attention by the suddenness of your movements, 

 their eyes at the time being entirely occupied with 

 the decoys or selecting a particular spot in which 

 to light. If the flock is large, it may be advisable 

 to allow them to do this, and when a sufficient 

 number swim together, fire away. Frequently at 

 the report of the gun, if they do not see the shoot- 

 er, those unhurt may jump up and immediately 

 drop down again, as though thinking there was 

 no need of leaving while their companions, the 

 decoys, appeared so quiet and contented ; and if 

 you are quick-motioned, you may often reload 

 your breech-loader and secure more before they 

 discover their mistake. This I have done repeat- 

 edly. 



On rainy days they appear very uneasy, fly- 

 ing about continually, and dart to the decoys 

 readily. It is on these days the big counts are 

 usually made. 



Cripples should be " shot over again '■ as soon 

 as possible, and be careful not to let them see 



