“Frosty Texas Morning”

Even during a drought year, when bobwhite quail numbers are down, there is something special about the various aspects of quail hunting.  Much of it centers around the field work of various pointing breeds as they cover acres of ground in search of any “bobs.”

Popular gamebird and dog painter Lou Pasqua has captured one of chilly mornings with his painting entitled “Frosty Texas Morning.”  You just know it was probably inspired on some icy February morning when at first light, and even into mid-morning light frost or ice cover grassy and prickly pear flats.  Most quail hunters would wait to venture out until about the time the sun would have thawed and dried the ground making it easier for pointers to wind their quarry.

Plus there is something special about watching dogs work.  Their enthusiasm is infection amongst their brace mates.  There is a playful rambunctiousness even amongst the older dogs as they are released from travel cages or built in kennels on rigs.

Then it is time to go to work for these four legged hunters.  Each dog using it sensitive nose to sniff out the quail scent while listening to whistle or voice commands of his or her handler.

In years of abundance the points and honored points are numerous.  In years when bird numbers are down, hunters know their canine companions are given it their all as the search for these prized upland birds.

Even when few are found, the dog work observed is worth the time, expense and effort of being afield.  Any birds found are simply a bonus for that particular day’s outing.

For more information on “Frosty Texas Morning,” other fine works of art and commissions by Lou Pasqua, visit www.loupasqua.com, email pat@ loupasqua@comcast.net or call (412) 782-4869.  — Bill L. Olson

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