THE “QUAIL” 67 
they scatter in every direction when started 
from the ground and may then be picked up in 
detail. In most cases the covey keeps to one 
particular neighborhood, rarely going far 
away, and may usually be found when wanted. 
In the early part of the season they are likely 
to be found in the brushy covers, but at the 
close are oftener in the open. 
While it lasts the Quail’s flight is a terrific 
burst of speed. It requires more than ordin- 
ary shooting ability to make a good average of 
birds in proportion to the number of cartridges 
used; especially is this so in the thick covert. 
He will carry off a good load of shot, too, will 
Mr. Quail, for the little fellow has that high 
order of courage, the heritage of his family, 
which keeps him still doing his best just so long 
as he can flutter a feather. In quail shooting 
in the open, however, it seems as though a 
good ‘‘clay-bird’’ shot should account for a 
fair percentage of his cartridges, since the 
gamey ‘‘bluerock’’ flies much like the Quail. 
Much has been said of the Quail’s ability to 
‘‘retain his scent.’? May it not be that the 
bird is only trying to conceal itself and by hug- 
ging its feathers closely and never stirring 
