What Is Bird Hunting?
Bird hunting is a broad term that covers many different types of hunts for various bird species. It could mean pheasant and duck hunting on an estate, or ptarmigan hunting in the mountains.
When it comes to bird hunting, there are four main methods:
Flush hunting with pointing or flushing dogs:
In hunts with pointing dogs, the dog searches an area and freezes in a point when it catches the scent of a bird. The dog stands completely still, body frozen, and points its nose toward the hidden bird. On the hunter’s command, the dog flushes the bird so the shot can be taken as it takes off. In hunts with flushing dogs, the dog drives the bird up directly in front of the hunter.
Pass shooting for migrating birds:
Hunters are positioned where birds naturally fly between their resting and feeding grounds.
Driven bird hunts:
In a driven hunt, a group of people and dogs form a line — a so-called beating line — and use clapping or other noises to drive pheasants toward another line of waiting shooters.
Capercaillie and black grouse hunting (top bird hunting):
Top bird hunting is a method where hunters — with or without dogs — hunt ptarmigan, capercaillie, and black grouse.
In all forms of bird hunting (except for waterfowl hunting), a retrieving dog is required to recover downed game.
What Clothing Works Well for Bird Hunting?
For active hunts, it’s best to wear clothing with good ventilation and plenty of pockets for your gear. Layering is important so you can adjust your body temperature as the activity level changes from high movement to more stationary moments.
We’ve gathered clothing that’s particularly well-suited for pheasant and duck hunting. Many hunters prefer a comfortable and functional shooting vest, paired with durable yet stylish trousers. A shooting jacket with shoulder reinforcements and large bellows pockets is also a popular choice for bird hunts.
In this type of hunt, many like to dress both practically and traditionally, with a shooting shirt, tie, and a classic Merino wool sweater. A flat cap adds a traditional touch, just like a pair of breeks — short hunting trousers that work perfectly with tall boots, avoiding the discomfort and bunching that can come from stuffing pant legs into boots. A pair of long shooting socks finishes the look and adds comfort.
Shooting gloves are also great for keeping a solid grip on your shotgun.