96 THE COMPLETE WILDFOWLER 



Decoys are seldom used by shore-gunners. In the majority 

 of places the conditions are unsuitable. Where 

 BIRDS decoys are used by shore-gunners the quarter is 



usually marshland or non -tidal foreshore wherein 

 stagnant "fleets " (once creeks or runners to the sea) are to be 

 found. In such places decoy birds (for convenience of trans- 

 port always artificial) are employed with more or less success. 

 On the sea-coast or estuary shore, decoying is generally a 

 failure. The only time at which decoys might be useful at such 

 places is during storms, and then they would simply have to 

 be floated where ducks would naturally come to seek shelter. 

 Thus it is found that sport at these fowl would be enjoyed with- 

 out decoys. Sea-ducks seldom come well to decoys near land. 

 They are better decoyed near a boat. Game ducks — mallard, 

 teal, and widgeon — from my experience, do not readily " take " 

 decoys anywhere near open seashores. This is remarkable, 

 since on inland lochs and such places they are very eager to 

 join decoys anchored in smooth, sheltered water, especially 

 when a "blow" is on. Ducks and occasionally geese are the 

 fowl decoyed. Decoy shore-birds, from the shooter's stand- 

 point, are practically unnecessary when calling is skilfully 

 carried out. Artificial decoy birds most attractive are well- 

 stuffed specimens of the birds themselves ; but, as these will 

 not stand knocking about, it is invariably found (unless circum- 

 stances are convenient and great care is exercised in handling 

 the decoys) that artificial birds last longer, and if well con- 

 structed act almost as well. Ducks and plover are usually 

 made of wood or cork. I have seen some very roughly made 

 cork ducks answer their purpose well, especially for sea-duck 

 shooting at sea. Rubber decoy ducks which may be inflated 

 are made and sold. These answer well if carefully used. 

 Tether decoys afloat in a close line on the water. Set plovers, 

 waders, etc., a little apart. 



