beagling

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beagling is the hunting of hares on foot with the aid of beagle hounds, specially bred for the purpose. It was practised in the classical world and held its popularity in England until gradually replaced in the 18th cent. by fox-hunting. The mounted version, practised by harriers, was common in the 19th cent. but has since declined. Many of the remaining packs of beagles are owned by military establishments or by public schools.

J. A. Cannon