American Game 213 



are far less numerous than formerly. Those qualified' 

 to judge believe they are now slowly increasing, owing 

 to protective laws. Market-shooting has nearly exter- 

 minated them in some parts of the state. The quail- 

 shooter cannot hunt at will now, for most of the farms 

 are posted, and it is often difficult for a stranger to gain 

 the desired permission to shoot. These birds are most 

 numerous along creeks and river-bottoms. 



Grouse are most likely to be found on the hills which 

 are timbered. 



Southeast of Canton, and situated in what is known 

 as the Sandy valley, a stretch of country extending 

 through the counties of Stark, Carroll, and Tuscarawas 

 for a distance of say twenty-five miles, is a good hunt- 

 ing region. Through the centre of this valley runs 

 Sandy creek for two thirds its length, finally flowing 

 into the Tuscarawas river. On either side of this valley 

 are ridges of moderate elevation, quite well timbered. 

 Small game in favorable seasons is usually quite plenti- 

 ful, although within the past few years farmers have 

 grown somewhat hostile to sportsmen, as a result of the 

 ill treatment they have received at the hands of a few 

 unscrupulous persons who unfortunately pose as sports- 

 men. However, there is still good sport to be had 

 there, and by taking the trouble to get permission from 

 the landowners, one may have very good shooting at 

 a small cost. The country is a good one for squirrel, 

 grouse, quail, and rabbit, and these are usually plentiful. 

 Gray, red, and fox-squirrel are all to be had, although 

 the last are not found as readily as the other two. 

 The timber is mainly oak, hickory, chestnut, and elm, 

 which makes it a good home for squirre]. 



