How to Sneak Up for Bird Barking

Hunting with spitzes is an ancient form of hunting. A skilled hunter can sneak up to within a few dozen meters. Here's how to secure a successful hunt with your spitz.

When a bird is being barked at, put all hurry aside and wait calmly for the situation to stabilize and for the bird to calm down. Begin a cautious approach about 100 m from the barking.

Sneak and crawl, taking advantage of the shape of the terrain and visual obstacles. Trees, bushes, and rocks prevent the bird from seeing anyone approaching. A mask and gloves are good. White skin often reveals to the bird someone who is approaching.

Proceed silently. Move as if in a slow-motion film. Watch where you are stepping. Avoid snapping twigs. Also avoid lateral movements. A bird will easily spot rapid motion.

Observe the tree at which the dog is barking. Insist on accurate marking from the dog and do not shoot a poorly marked bird. Look at the tree in question through binoculars branch by branch. Often a small movement reveals the bird. The bird may be either at the top of or in the middle of the tree. The capercaillie in particular often sits right next to the trunk. The white spot on its side often gives it away.

Approach the tree in a spiral formation. Lateral movements in particular should be done in a crawling position. A bird is less likely to perceive a low-moving target as a threat than a human walking upright. Circle the tree at a distance of about 60 m. This is often the distance at which a bird will fly away when spotting someone approaching

Trust your dog. Even if the tree seems empty, there is often a bird there. Shoot the bird being barked at with a sure and accurate shot. Reward the dog for a job well done.

This article was originally published at Riista magazine. Text by Jyrki Puupponen photo by Raimo Mattila