Page 148 THE BOOK OF DUCK DECOYS.

THE BOOK OF DUCK DECOYS.

The lake lies east and west, is over a quarter of a mile long, and of an average breadth of 150 yards, a stream running through it. The pipes are four in number. No. 1 is situated on the north side of the lake, No. 2 at the north-east corner, No. 3 at the east-south-east corner, and No. 4 at the south side of the lake. No pipes could be placed at the west end, as the lake terminates there in a high embankment. This is a disadvantage, as the prevailing wind during the season is westerly. The pipes average 12 feet in height, the smallest hoop being, as usual, 2 feet. The average width at the mouth is 18 feet. Nos. 2 and 3 arc 70 yards long; No. 1 about 60 yards; and No. 4 40 yards. The last might advantageously be lengthened, but the nature of the ground is an obstacle. The lake is artificial, and was made in the year 1820 but though great numbers of wildfowl frequented it, no attempt was made to form a Decoy till the year 1868, when a pipe was constructed on the northern shore of the lake ; but owing to its faulty position, and its being overshadowed by trees, was shortly afterwards dismantled, and the pipe called No. 2 was made in 1871 ; it having been found to answer, No. 3 was added in 1873. Next year the pipe No. 1 was opened, and this was followed in 1876 by the pipe called No. 4. These four pipes have been in constant working order ever since. No authentic record is extant of the number and description of fowl taken before the year 1877, but since that date a careful account has been kept, from which the enclosed is an extract:- The largest number taken at one time was 130 Teal, on January 11 1879. The greatest number taken in one day was 202, of which the 130 above mentioned formed part; the remainder being made up by 14 Duck, 18 Wigeon, and 40 Teal. The birds on this occasion all fed in. As will be seen from the accompanying extract, the majority of fowl taken are Wigeon, which on this coast are excellent for table. Duck and Teal come next in order, the preponderance varying in different seasons according to wind and weather. In addition to the Pintail and Shoveller Ducks mentioned in the list, 1 Sheldrake, 1 Bernacle Goose, 1 Pochard, and 2 Gadwall have been taken.