Farming talk: Like the birds, the season has flown by
One of the endearing charms of the shooting season is just that – "a season." A bit like life itself, the further into the season you get, the faster it flies – as do the birds, of course. Now, suddenly it is finite, close of play is just days away, writes Ivor Fox, from Leaton Knolls commercial shoot.
January's swiftness has been perpetuated by a final flurry of demand for days. Demand has been exceptional and like many I have not been able to satisfy all, despite tucking in an additional four days.
The birds have been easier to hold this year, a fact not aided by natural food as there's been a shortage this year, with acorns being particularly lacking. Nevertheless with poultry manure and a good growing season, plus not a little agronomy, the wild bird feed and game crops have held the birds exceptionally well. Maize has been particularly valuable and the brassicas seem to have hit the spot for cover and cuisine.
Already guns are looking ahead for next year, I guess with a few frustrations in the last month, if there are specific dates then booking early has to be a prudent move. For most shoots it is not just reassuring, but also extremely helpful if bookings are made in February and March. Deposits are a major player in the fine balance of cash flow.
I think past generations would look on with great envy at how the internet has even changed the face of shoots. Today many syndicates enjoy a home base, but actually look for one or more away days to plan into their schedule. Guns-on-pegs gives guns the opportunity to easily click and rove.
Expectations of a good day can vary, but well presented birds have to come top. As the season progresses the challenges of presentation are quite literally flying in the wind – seasonal conditions, weather conditions and of course the all-important positioning of guns, and skill of beaters and ultimately pickers up. It is all made worthwhile when guns congregate at the boot of a vehicle to eulogise and offload banter regarding any gun's shortcomings.
And we have a thank you to beaters who quite literally have climbed every bank, usually thick with brambles with dogs hard at work and to those that pick up for guns – the teamwork of man and dog is gratifying.
Beaters day is a thank you and a chance for all those who make the shoot possible to actually have a go themselves. After which, close of season offers an opportunity to reflect and make new plans, September 1 is only 32 weeks away.
