WEATHER AND EXPENSES 241 
In calms, especially those which precede storms, successful 
shots can often be secured. It is usually only the large 
double punts, followed by boats, which venture, for at times 
of calms fowl (ducks) are riding out at sea on deep water. The 
birds on these occasions are at most times approachable if 
worked to properly. No doubt they know of the approaching 
storm, and are resting in anticipation of it. 
We have spoken of the weather impossible for punt- 
shooting, and also of that which is most suitable ; but we have 
not mentioned the kind of weather when going afloat after 
fowl is practically useless. One day’s experience should suffice 
to instil this. When ducks are scarce, and only seen singly, 
and when the winter sun shines bright, with a genial warmth, 
tempting the hibernating butterflies from their holes, it is no 
use going punting. The ducks are then far out at sea. 
During mild and open winters, mallard and widgeon spend 
much of the daytime far out at sea, only coming to land at 
night to feed. This is not only a natural habit with these birds, 
but is further established with them if they are persecuted 
should they attempt to feed by day, which some of the birds are 
fairly sure to do, provided their feeding grounds are quiet and 
unmolested by gunners. But as these circumstances of quietude 
are not common at most of our British fowling quarters, 
the usual experience in this direction is more general than 
otherwise, for only at exceptional times do the birds change 
their habits at all, should the weather continue mild. When 
the fowl, during mild winters, are behaving regularly in their 
movements, the fowler must then set afloat after them at night. 
The best times, however, must be chosen. Moonlit nights, 
when a veil of thin white cloud partly obscures the moon and 
is wafted by a light wind, so that a rather varying light is 
thrown upon the water, are the night-fowler’s glory. At times 
like these with the tide suitable, he may make a good shot or 
two. The moonlit nights not to go afloat are those when the 
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