Book excerpt: North America is blessed with an abundance of small-game animals and birds of assorted types, with most at healthy population levels throughout the country. The habitats of these different species frequently overlap, so hunters chasing after one type of animal often find other types of small game to challenge them as well. In addition, most state game departments do a fine job managing the nation's small-game populations. In turn, we are provided with plenty of hunting opportunities. But small-game hunting is more than just the taking of a fast-running rabbit or hare, trying to outwit a woodchuck, pursuing a quick-thinking squirrel, or attempting to lure an ultra-wily coyote into gun range. No, it's much more than that. It's about walking through an autumn forest with all the colors of the leaves assaulting your senses; it's about observing other wildlife and all its surroundings; it's about hunting alone, if you so desire, or with good friends, and trusted dogs. It helps both the veteran outdoorsman and the novice gain a balance with nature.