Gus’ body language gave off all the classic signs as we approached a corner near the end of a long walk along the edge of a cattail slough.
At age 7, he is in his prime years as a bird dog. Young enough where stamina isn’t an issue and experienced enough to consistently piece together the puzzle. His pace quickens when on a bird, but he’s methodical in his approach, dissecting every detail. Gus froze and glanced back at me. Almost simultaneously, a rooster erupted from the cattails.