BIRDS. 



453 



is closely related, and in the eastern states, the most abnndant of onr 

 ducks. It has a fine flesh, and is possibly the best of all the ducks for 

 food. In its migrations — for it is to a large extent a migratory duck — 

 a peculiarity is noticeable in the short distances which they travel ; thus 

 those which spend the winter in New Jersey go to Massachusetts for the 

 summer, while those of the latter state migrate to Maine at the same time. 

 It is a curious parallel to regular summer migrations of the human species. 

 September and October are the great times for cluck-hunting, and then the 

 meadows and marshes resound with the bang of the sportsman's gim. To 



Fig. 382. — Shoveller-duck {Spatula clypeata). 



bring the ducks within range, decoys are used. Best for this purpose are 

 three or four tame ducks, ' anchored,' one might say, in some small pond 

 or stream ; but in default wooden decoys, painted black and white, are 

 used. The wild ducks see these, and, impelled by a feeling of sociability, 

 soon settle down upon the water near them. This is the sportsman's 

 opportunity. Concealed in shelter of boughs or grass, he opens fire with 

 his double-barreled gun, and frequently has an opportunity to get in four 

 shots before the alarmed flock are out of range. Many consider this 

 ' sport,' but to others it seems but a refined cruelty. 



The pintail duck is found in the northern portions of both continents, 

 and derives its name from the long and pointed tail-feathers. It is far more 



