60 BROADLAND SPORT 



of Nature, so exquisitely revealed even in the simple and 

 apparently unmeaning voices of the feathered tribe; but 

 which, in reality, express to their species the unmistakable 

 language of the heart its love, hatred, wants, sympathies, 

 doubts and alarms and all by sounds so short and feeble, yet 

 too distinct and expressive to be misunderstood by those for 

 whom they are intended, though to human ear a jumble of 

 inexpressive similarities. With these and many others the 

 wildfowler becomes so easily acquainted that a mistake of 

 species cannot well be made ; but it is with other signs of 

 their language that the master of the art has to do before he 

 can become an adept at evening and midnight sport, for 

 whilst these sounds reveal the species, others less vociferous 

 betray their action, their movements and suspicions." 



As previously stated, it is an acknowledged fact that birds 

 possess a language of their own, and one can soon convert a dis- 

 believer by placing him in a position where he can both see 

 and hear a flock of curlews ; or, nearer home, let him listen to 

 and observe on old hen with her brood of chickens. 



The use of artificial calls need not be disparaged as, when 

 in proper hands, they are often made good use of ; but the 

 best advice to give to anyone who has fowl approaching his 

 stales or decoy-birds is not to attempt to emit any note unless 

 certain that the imitation is perfect, besides being in the right 

 note and in the right key. 



When fifteen years of age the author could lean against a 

 gate-post at evening flight (the easiest period for calling) and 

 time after time call peewits to within ten or fifteen yards. 

 The bag generally astonished flighting companions, and often 

 places were changed with them, but with the same result. 



No definite rules or advice can be given for " calling," as 

 its utility at seasonable times will only become apparent after 

 practical experience and observation. 



As to boats, the sportsman had best choose that craft most 

 suitable for the particular branch of decoy shooting he is 

 about to practise. An ordinary gunning-punt will be found 

 best all round, if it is available, but almost any boat answers, 



