692 The American IVoodcock- 



time he was still eager for food. Somewhat later he had increased 

 one ounce in weight, and he now ate in twenty-four hours no less 

 than eight ounces of worms. 



If it were worth while to have a special gun for woodcock shoot- 

 ing, it should weigh not more than seven pounds, with 28-inch barrels, 

 and be of 12 or 16 gauge; but the one used for quail will answer 

 every purpose. The charge should be three drams powder and 

 an ounce of 1 2 shot. As, however, quail and ruffed grouse are 

 almost sure to be started during a day's tramp after woodcock in the 

 autumn, a more general charge, three and a half drams powder 

 and an ounce of 10 shot is better. The dog is a most important 

 auxiliary in woodcock shooting. A very few sportsmen employ 

 cocker or field spaniels, which are trained to range close to the gun, 

 and to give tongue as soon as they strike the scent, thus warning 

 the shooter of the proximity of the bird, and preparing him for its 

 possible rising. But most men use the setter or pointer. A good 

 woodcock dog should work close; that is, within sight of the gun. 

 Often where the undergrowth is very thick, it becomes necessary to 

 attach a bell to the dog's collar, so that if he pass out of sight for a 

 few moments, his whereabouts may still be known by the sound. 



Late in November you will still find a few birds, and at this time 

 they will all be lusty and strong of wing, and will test your skill. 

 Cross the meadows then, and go down into the swamp, working 

 along near the edge, where the underbrush is not too thick, and 

 the soil under the leaves, as you can see in the cattle-tracks, is rich 

 and black. Just beyond you on the left, a steep hill-side rises 

 sharply from the edge of the swamp, its surface overgrown with 

 low cedars, sumacs, and bayberry bushes. The old dog comes out 

 of the swamp and turns toward the slope and, as he crosses before 

 you, glances back inquiringly. He knows the hill-side, and under- 

 stands as well as you do, that a cock is usually to be found on that 

 warm southern exposure, at this time of the year. No need to wave 

 the hand or use any elaborate signal to tell him to work up among 

 the cedars and through the brush. A little sidewise movement of 

 the head, and he is breasting the steep ascent, and rustling among 

 the twigs and over the crisp leaves, while you walk along a cow- 

 path at the foot of the slope. If there be a bird there, it will be 

 sure to fly toward the swamp, and must, therefore, cross in front of 

 you. For a few moments you hear the dog as he works along 



