SHOOTING. 43 



ferent rules are given by various authors, some 

 saying to shoot at the birds as they are turned, 

 from us on the water, and others telling us to 

 wait for the broadside chance. One thing certainly 

 you may rest assured of, which is agreed to by 

 all : when the birds are facing you is the poorest 

 time. 



Your position should not be too high, but 

 about two feet above the level of the ducks, if 

 convenient. If the flock is large and close to 

 you, do not shoot at the nearest ones, but rather 

 beyond, inside the edge of the flock, as many 

 pellets which in the first case would be wasted 

 in striking the bodies would, if delivered as 

 directed, take effect almost entirely upon the 

 heads and necks, most vital parts ; those of the 

 nearer ducks, if the flock is closely packed, often 

 completely shielding the bodies of those farther 

 off. 



The ducks may be engaged in feeding, some 

 of them tail-end up, with their heads and necks 

 under water. It is useless to shoot at them in 

 this position. In such a case the shooter should 

 give a low whistle to make them raise their 

 heads before firing. Do not start them up, as some 

 authors advise, but shoot as soon as their heads 



