For a Handful of Feathers

Introduced to hunting at the age of seven, the author continues to pursue the sport. He owns an 800-acre farm in northern Florida, where he raises his favorite game bird, bobwhite quail. Here he reflects on a way of life that reconciles hunting with preservation of land and wildlife. Valdene offers an interesting glimpse of wildlife management-building a favorable habitat for quail by planting trees and shrubs, dividing fields, building dams and employing controlled burning. He writes about his dogs and other animals attracted to the farm. He takes us through the bobwhite's year, from nesting to maturity to the pot (with recipes). Valdene, whose works have appeared in Field and Stream and Sports Afield, has written a gem that will appeal not only to hunters but to all readers who love the land. First serial to Sports Afield. (Oct.)