The experience was of some years ago in China, far up-country, towards the head-waters of the Yang- tze-kiang, where the smaller tributaries spread out in a sort of natural irrigation scheme to supply the wilderness of paddy-fields.

It was at the time of the ripening rice, and the myriads of birds which came to feed on the coming crop was a serious menace, not only to the district, but to the country at large.

The farmers, who were more or less afflicted with the same trouble every season, knew how to deal with it.
They made a vast kite, which they caused to be flown over the centre spot of the incursion.

The kite was shaped like a great hawk; and the moment it rose into the air the birds began to cower and seek protection--and then to disappear.

So long as that kite was flying overhead the birds lay low and the crop was saved.