News
Is it worth decoying pigeon on green rape stubble?
In previous autumns I have sometimes seen good numbers of birds feeding on greened-up rape stubble. What are they feeding on, and is it worth decoying them?
Would you like to appear on our site? We offer sponsored articles and advertising to put you in front of our readers. Find out more.
Pigeon shooting
PETER THEOBALD
Contrary to popular belief these birds are not eating the leaves of young rape plants, they won’t touch these until every stubble in the area has been entirely gleaned of grain.
No, these pigeons are still finding enough rapeseed to focus their attention on, particularly if the field has been lightly cultivated and brought more food to the surface as a result.
I have never found anything other than seed – even if some of it has germinated – in the crops of birds shot over ‘greened’ rape fields.
Related articles
News
Hit pause on flawed rollout, urges BASC
BASC calls for delay to the Scottish government’s muirburn licensing scheme amid concerns from practitioners over the code’s workability.
By Time Well Spent
News
More power to police for tackling poachers
Following countryside organisations’ campaigning, penalties for illegal coursing have increased, with average fines up from £360 to £6,000