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What are Duck Decoys?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Duck decoys are tools used in the trapping and hunting of ducks. In the original sense, a duck decoy was a wickerwork tunnel positioned over a pond or stream, and used to trap a large number of ducks. In the modern sense, decoys are usually fake ducks which are floated on bodies of water to encourage real ducks to land. These decoys are also used in the training of hunting dogs.

The original duck decoy was a rather clever device. The hunter positioned what was essentially a large basket over a body of water, and then used a well trained hunting dog to herd ducks into the decoy. Once inside, the ducks were trapped, and the hunter could take the ducks to market and sell them. This type of decoy is still used by some naturalists to trap live birds for the purpose of tagging and study.

Duck decoys are used in the trapping and hunting of ducks.
Duck decoys are used in the trapping and hunting of ducks.

The cage-like basket also explains the origins of the word “decoy.” In Dutch, de kooi means “the cage,” and English users probably picked up the term as well as the technique from Dutch hunters. Several examples of historical decoys can be found around Europe; some are considered national heritage sites and they are part of larger parks and reserve areas. In some instances, reserves offer live demonstrations of decoys for visitors who are interested in seeing them in use.

Hunters use duck decoys to help trap the prey.
Hunters use duck decoys to help trap the prey.

However, when the term “duck decoy” is used today, most people think of model ducks, rather than cages. Duck decoys range in design from being very crude representations of ducks to elaborate mimics which may be designed to move or swim around, thus lulling ducks into a sense of security. When ducks see the decoy, they decide that the body of water is safe, and they land on it, thus exposing themselves to hunters who can shoot, snare, or trap them.

Many hunters use a combination of decoys and calls to attract their prey.
Many hunters use a combination of decoys and calls to attract their prey.

Hunting dogs are also trained with the use of decoys. Hunters who pursue waterfowl need dogs to retrieve the birds they shoot without damaging them. Decoys are used to teach dogs to sit patiently until they are needed, and they are also used to show dogs how to carefully pick up a bird and bring it back to the person who shot it.

Many hunting suppliers sell decoys, and it is also possible to make one by hand, if one has crafting skills. Some people also collect antique and historical duck decoys as interesting pieces of household sculpture, especially in homes which are decorated with a rustic or country theme.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a Sports&Hobbies researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a Sports&Hobbies researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon147850

What are duck decoys made of? Who discovered duck decoys?

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    • Duck decoys are used in the trapping and hunting of ducks.
      By: fotomaster
      Duck decoys are used in the trapping and hunting of ducks.
    • Hunters use duck decoys to help trap the prey.
      By: Pierrette Guertin
      Hunters use duck decoys to help trap the prey.
    • Many hunters use a combination of decoys and calls to attract their prey.
      By: joppo
      Many hunters use a combination of decoys and calls to attract their prey.