2GO THE GREAT GREY-SHRIKE 



A shrike, or more frequently two, are pegged out on a spot which is 

 commanded by the low hut wherein the falconer is concealed, and 

 within reach of the birds is a refuge in the form of a turf hut. The 

 keen eyes of the shrikes detect the approach of the falcon long before 

 anything can be discerned by man's eye, and a long study of the 

 actions and notes of the birds enable the falconer, unseeing and un- 

 seen, to judge accurately the position and movements of the falcon. 

 At the right moment a decoy pigeon is allowed to make a short flight, 

 and is kept within range of the clap-nets by means of string. The 

 shrikes bolt into the turf hut for shelter, the falcon makes its stoop, 

 and the falconer, warned of the approach of his prey, pulls the clap- 

 net at the critical moment, and the peregrine finds itself a helpless 

 prisoner. 1 



1 For a good illustrated account of the whole process see J. E. Harting, the Field, March 16, 

 1878 (p. 307). 



