Boarstall Duck Decoy

BoarstallDuckDecoy

Boarstall Duck Decoy is a 17th-century duck decoy located in Boarstall, near Aylesbury, in Buckinghamshire, England. It is one of the few remaining examples of a once common method for catching wildfowl in England. The decoy is situated within the Boarstall estate, which has historical ties dating back to the Norman Conquest. The decoy itself is a testament to the ingenuity of past waterfowl hunting techniques, combining knowledge of bird behavior with crafted landscapes to facilitate the capture of ducks and other water birds.

History

The Boarstall Duck Decoy was constructed in the early 17th century, a period when duck decoys were becoming increasingly popular in England as a means to supply the demand for waterfowl for the table. The decoy at Boarstall was part of the larger Boarstall estate, which has a rich history, including a fortified manor house that played a role during the English Civil War. The decoy was used to catch ducks in a humane and efficient manner, utilizing a series of channels and nets, guided by a decoyman and his dog, to entrap the birds.

Design and Operation

The design of the Boarstall Duck Decoy is typical of the period, featuring a central pond surrounded by several curved ditches or pipes. These pipes are covered with netting and lead away from the pond into the surrounding woodland. The decoyman would use a trained dog to create a disturbance, encouraging the ducks to swim into the pipes. Once in the pipes, the ducks would be gently guided along by the decoyman, hidden from the birds' view, until they reached a netted area where they could be safely captured.

The operation of the decoy required detailed knowledge of waterfowl behavior, as well as the skills of both the decoyman and his dog. The process was silent and non-disruptive, allowing for the capture of birds without alarming the rest of the flock. This method of capture ensured that the decoy could be used throughout the hunting season.

Conservation and Legacy

Today, the Boarstall Duck Decoy is recognized for its historical and environmental significance. It is a rare surviving example of a once widespread practice, offering insights into historical wildlife management and hunting practices. The decoy is managed with a focus on conservation, both of the structure itself and the surrounding habitat, which supports a variety of wildlife.

The site is a reminder of the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world, and the ways in which our ancestors adapted their practices to sustainably manage and harvest resources. The Boarstall Duck Decoy is not only a piece of England's heritage but also a living classroom for those interested in conservation, history, and traditional practices.

See Also

• Duck decoy
• Waterfowl hunting
• Conservation in the United Kingdom
• History of Buckinghamshire