Today we are going to continue the exciting new type of hunting I was learning about yesterday.
Our first location is at the base of a tree standing on the edge of a huge field. Picking the right cover is vitally important, and Cenni always studies the landscape thoroughly. Wind direction can also determine which places are suitable, or not. We chose the tree for several reasons.
The sun is rising behind us, which will blind the coyotes, helping us to stay hidden. Even pilots in the 1st World War knew this tactic, and, when possible, attacked enemy aircraft with the sun behind them. Also, if the sun is behind us, then the tree's shadow will lie in the direction we expect to see the coyotes; that will help to hide us. And, finally, if we want to screen ourselves well, we must be close to a natural landmark, which, in this case, is the tree. It is very difficult to be invisible in a completely open area.
We lie on our stomachs, with our caps pulled down over our eyes, resting on our elbows, watching the field. Earlier, Cenni showed me how to change from this position into a shooting one, making the fewest number of movements.
We see nothing, so we take no shots, but, even so, I have learnt a lot. Before, I assumed that all that was needed for a varmint hunt was an accurate gun and a good riflescope. That was incorrect. Because this type of hunting has its own tricks and secrets, just like any big game hunt.
Experience and preparation are required. Technique helps, but won't, in itself, solve any problems.
The other cover produces no results, either.
On the way home we see three coyotes in a field, but by the time I get out of Greeny, they are long gone. I don't mind; I would have missed them, anyway. I haven't checked with Cenni what distances the cross hairs in the reticle represent. If I had fired, I would just have raised some dust in front of the creature.
Back in camp my wound is re-bandaged. When we clean off the dried blood, we can see that Zeiss gave me quite a kiss.
That is what can happen to a stupid shooter.
Chapter VIII.: Deer Hunter
Page 40