78 THE COMPLETE WILDFOWLER 
as results go to settle the difference, or, in other words, the 
shooter practising hutting invariably has better success than 
the one who chooses to stalk about. To some extent circum- 
stances go a long way towards controlling the plans of the 
shore-shooter. Some quarters are unsuitable for hutting, and 
consequently other methods have to be adopted. In either 
pursuit it is always necessary for the gunner to be thoroughly 
acquainted with the habits and movements of his quarry, as 
they are affected by tides, winds, and other similar governing 
elements. Also, and with no less importance, the shooter 
should be able to ‘‘call” or mimic the cries of his quarry, for 
unless he is proficient in this art his chances of good sport are 
considerably lowered. It is equally necessary for him to under- 
stand the conditions with regard to tide times and the hour of 
day when his birds will most readily heed his deceiving calls. 
These details will be referred to later, but in the meantime it 
will be well to state that, unless close observation and experi- 
ence are coupled with the advice tendered, the learner cannot 
expect to become expert, neither can he conceive those un- 
teachable details of sound and circumstance. To assist the 
ready, apt, and willing learner is all I aim todo. More than 
that is impossible and should not be anticipated. _ 
Before constructing a hut, first observe the daily flights of 
the shore-birds and other fowl as the tides compel them to 
leave their feeding grounds. Note their regular lines, and 
choose a spot where you will not be turned out until high 
water or thereabouts of spring tides. Weigh matters generally 
and decide in favour of a situation which will enable you 
to hide at top tide rather than retreat to take your chance 
unhidden. Of course, two huts might be built, but this is 
extremely laborious, and where shooters are numerous is im- 
practicable, for one could not easily claim on a free shore all 
the best spots and hold them for emergencies. The best plan 
is to hit on one spot and stick. to it, even if birds do not come 
