METHODS OF CAPTURING WOODCOCKS. 331 



pieces of fine thread netting, edg^ed witli cords adapted to tlie extent 

 of the lint. The g-lade net so formed is suspended between two 

 trees, directly in the track of the woodcocks' flig'ht, or rather in the 

 " cock roads," as they are termed by Blome.* Both the upper and 

 lower corners have each a rope attached to them, which, as regards 

 the upper part of the net, is rove through sheaves, iron rings 

 or thimbles, fastened to the trees on either side, at the top of the 

 glade, at a moderate height, varying from ten to twelve or fifteen feet. 



The falls of the two upper ropes are joined, or so adjusted, that 

 they form a bridle ; to the central part of which a single rope is 

 attached, of several yards' length, which the fowler holds in his hand, 

 in a place of concealment ; and thus commands full power over the 

 net, being able to drop it down suddenly and intercept the flight of 

 any birds which may attempt to escape through the glade ; or he 

 can draw it up as suddenly from the ground to a perpendicular 

 position. 



A stone of about 5 lbs. weight is attached to each of the lower 

 cords of the net ; so that when the fowler lets go his controlling rope, 

 the weight of the stones forces the lower part of the net down in an 

 instant, with a strong fall ; and at the same time they draw up the 

 upper part of the net. 



The fowler having stationed himself in such a position as to com- 

 mand a full view of the glade in which his net is placed, beaters are 

 employed to flush the cocks from their retreats; immediately on 

 one or more flying in the direction of the fowler, a signal is given ; 

 and just as the bird approaches, the net is suddenly let down or 

 drawn up ; when the woodcock flying forcibly against it, is imme- 

 diately ensnared. 



The instant the birds have struck the net, the fowler lets go 

 another cord, which is generally looped to a stake within reach of his 

 arm ; and the whole net, with the birds entangled, then drops to the 

 ground. In forcing themselves forward in their endeavours to escape, 

 they form the net into a sort of bag", which makes their capture more 

 certain. 



Coveys of partridges, and occasionally hares, are taken in these 

 nets. Many game-keepers (as well as poachers) use them, and make 

 a good deal of money by the pursuit : the extravagant piices and 

 constant sale for woodcocks, being frequently too great a temptation 

 for these men to withstand. 



* Vide Blome's Gcnfij. Rccus. 



