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 speak to our readers? We offer sponsored articles and advertising to put you in front of our audience. 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
A school trip they’ll struggle to forget
Let’s Learn Moor gives thousands of schoolchildren, many from towns and cities, the chance to experience the beauty of the moors
By Time Well Spent
News
Three Scottish estates earn top wildlife management awards
Three estates have received accreditation in recognition of their exemplary wildlife management and conservation work