THE MOOR 191 



whole army flying away in all directions, while, if these 

 single birds are left alone, the rest of the pack will sail 

 grandly over the guns. 



(b) "Guns" must keep absolutely silent, well 

 hidden, and as immovable as is compatible with 

 nature. 



(c) Of course the keeper must warn any very igno- 

 rant " gun " that grey hens must not be fired at, unless 

 the stock is so great that it is desirable to reduce it. 



Poaching Black Game 



In addition to the general principles recognised for 

 the suppression of poachers, long stakes, with a nail 

 driven into the top at right angles, may be planted at 

 intervals over the black-game ground, when poaching 

 by netting is common. This practice is also valuable 

 for the protection of grouse, but owing to the general 

 limitations of the black-game ground, it is easier to carry 

 out than in the case of grouse. 



PTARMIGAN 



Every gamekeeper should be aware of the fact that 

 ptarmigan are like woodcock in one respect. They 

 always lie as to the wind. They are therefore to be 

 found on the lee side of the hills. This fact is to be 

 carefully recalled when they are being looked for. If, 

 unfortunately, the march stretches along the summit of 

 a hill and the wind is blowing from this side, the birds 



