Poaching

Poaching is the act of stealing or hunting an animal. Poaching (when only stealing) is considered to be a relatively harmless crime, and more of a family and community tradition in the town and surrounding area where Danny and his father live. Danny learns through the course of the novel that poaching was originally done in order to feed hungry mouths, but is now done primarily for the fun, the thrill, and the art of it. Danny’s father, Sergeant Samways, Doc Spencer, Charlie Kinch, and the Clipstones are among those who have poached or who still poach.

Pheasants

Pheasants are a small ground bird that roosts in trees only at night, love raisins, and are capable of flying short distances. Pheasants are regularly raised and hunted for food, but they are raised only to be killed for sport by Mr. Hazell and his guests. This...