THE " QUAIL" 67 



they scatter in every direction when started 

 from the ground and may then be picked up in 

 detail. In most cases the covey keeps to one 

 particular neighborhood, rarely going far 

 away, and may usually be found when wanted. 

 In the early part of the season they are likely 

 to be found in the brushy covers, but at the 

 close are oftener in the open. 



While it lasts the Quail's flight is a terrific 

 burst of speed. It requires more than ordin- 

 ary shooting ability to make a good average of 

 birds in proportion to the number of cartridges 

 used; especially is this so in the thick covert. 

 He will carry off a good load of shot, too, will 

 Mr. Quail, for the little fellow has that high 

 order of courage, the heritage of his family, 

 which keeps him still doing his best just so long 

 as he can flutter a feather. In quail shooting 

 in the open, however, it seems as though a 

 good "clay-bird" shot should account for a 

 fair percentage of his cartridges, since the 

 gamey "bluerock" flies much like the Quail. 



Much has been said of the Quail's ability to 

 "retain his scent." May it not be that the 

 bird is only trying to conceal itself and by hug- 

 ging its feathers closely and never stirring 



