GROUND, STOCK, AND POACHING 191 



While on this branch of the subject, it may be 

 well to remark that partridges and their nests are 

 safer in fences or banks that are not too thick. In 

 looser covert the vermin are more easily traced and 

 trapped, and cannot so easily steal unawares upon the 

 birds. If making artificial covert for birds to nest in, 

 dry banks with rough grass, patches of whin or broom 

 and with only occasional trees, are preferable to 

 very thick fences or belts of trees closely planted 

 together. In proof of this, where such exist you 

 will always find the nests close to the edge of the 

 strip or fence, where the shelter is not too thick 

 and the birds are not exposed to the drip from the 

 trees. 



Foxes are a great difficulty, but I am convinced 

 that with modern appliances and close care the 

 neighbouring M.F.H. need never be disappointed 

 while a good stock of partridges is maintained. There 

 must be a complete check upon the whereabouts and 

 well-being of the nests. Egg-stealing is very profitable, 

 and unless the head-keeper is trustworthy and very 

 watchful, labourers and tramps may not prove to be 

 the only persons engaged in the illicit traffic. I fear 

 that many a young keeper falls a victim to the temp- 

 tation of the diabolical agents of those who advertise 

 ' 20,000 partridges' eggs for sale.' In most cases 



