Win CENS ProFlex DX5 earplugs worth £1,149 – enter here
This past spring I caught no fewer than 35 carrion crows in a single Larsen trap. In previous years the totals for this same trap have only been in single figures.
Our carrion crow population is divided into territory-holding pairs and non-breeders.
Territorial birds are dominant, with the males in turn dominant over the females.
Studies have shown the boundaries of a pair?s territory are most vigorously defended against unknown intruders, while familiar individuals from the adjoining territory are more likely to be tolerated.
This has the advantage of mutual defence against non-territory holders on the borders.
Thus it follows that a decoy bird brought in from some distance away is more likely to excite the residents than a local bird.
It would be interesting to hear from other readers whether they have noticed anything similar.
Given a choice of decoy bird I would always opt for the bird caught as far away as possible from the area in which I was trapping.
Get the latest news delivered direct to your door
Discover the ultimate companion for field sports enthusiasts with Shooting Times & Country Magazine, the UK’s leading weekly publication that has been at the forefront of shooting culture since 1882. Subscribers gain access to expert tips, comprehensive gear reviews, seasonal advice, and a vibrant community of like-minded shooters.
With weekly issues featuring in-depth articles on gundog training, exclusive member offers, and £2 million public liability insurance, a Shooting Times & Country subscription is more than a magazine – it’s your essential guide to the rich traditions and thrilling world of field sports. Don’t just read about the countryside; immerse yourself in its most authoritative and engaging publication.