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advance within shooting distance, without being observed by the 

 game of which he is in pursuit ; or, by stationing himself in the 

 hollows, he will have frequent opportunities to shoot at them, as 

 tliey pass from hill to hill. The customary mode of pursuing these 

 birds is with a vehicle. In this manner they do not appear to be 

 so early advised of the evil intention of the gunner. By this 

 means they are more readily approached ; and by most gunners it 

 is considered hopeless to pursue them other than by riding. But 

 this method is not only less exciting, but quite dangerous. The 

 true sportsman prefers the more exhilarating amusement, as well 

 as more sportsmanlike manner, of walking, or, as occasion may 

 require, creeping over the ground ; and feels more highly grati- 

 fied with bagging half a dozen of these exceedingly wild and supe- 

 rior birds, than with boasting over a greater number, obtained by 

 shooting from an open carriage. 



In order to meet with success when pursuing them on foot, it is 

 necessary to be acquainted with their habits; it also requires a 

 good marksman and a quick shot. 



This favorite species was found breeding by my friend Philip 

 Brasher, in the neighborhood of Rock River, Illinois. S. F. Baird, 

 Esq., residing at Carlisle, Pennsylvania, informs me that it breeds 

 in that section. 



In Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and on the Shin- 

 necock and Hempstead Plains, Long Island, it is common, where 

 it is known by the name of " Gray," " Grass," " Field," or "Up- 

 land Plover." It is very wary, and difficult to be approached. 

 On the ground, it has an erect and graceful gait. When alarmed, 

 it runs rapidly for a short distance before taking wing, uttering a 

 whistling note as it rises ; its flight is rapid, frequently going out 

 of sight before alighting. It usually keeps on the open dry grounds 

 — feeding on grasshoppers, insects, and seeds. In the month of 

 August it is generally in fine condition, and highly prized as game. 



When feeding, for greater security, this species scatter about ; 

 the instant the alarm is given, all move off. 



In the latter part of August it migrates southward, and it is 

 said performs the journey at night. Stragglers frequently remain 

 behind until quite late in September. 



