Bald eagles are apex predators in North America and have been known to attack and eat small animals, including cats. While eagles typically go after prey that is sick or wounded, they have been known to attack healthy animals if they are hungry enough. If you have a cat that spends time outdoors, it is important to be aware of the risk of an eagle attack. There are steps you can take to protect your cat, including keeping it indoors or supervising it when it is outside.

Because the Bald Eagle has powerful hooked beaks and large claws, cats can be killed by one of its large claws or beaks. In general, bald eagles will not target cats. When the bird catches fish out of the water with its talons, it will use its prey to pull it from the water. Despite their lack of aggression, bald eagles are not considered dangerous to humans. Preyers can kill bald eagles, but they are more likely to kill their eaglets or eggs. Bald eagles have been killed when they perch on power lines in the past. Although the Bald Eagle is not endangered, it is protected by a variety of federal laws and regulations.

Bald eagles were granted protection by the Continental Congress in 1777. If old forests where Bald eagles can often live are removed, they will most likely no longer be able to find a home and will die. It is illegal under the 1972 amendment to the United States Constitution to kill a Bald Eagle. It is possible to be fined $5,000 or imprisoned for up to one year for the same offense. If you are caught twice, you will face a $10,000 fine and two years in prison.

How Heavy Of An Animal Can A Bald Eagle Pick Up?

What are the Heaviest Eagle Hunting Calls? A bald eagle can travel up to 7 pounds if it is in good health. Even with larger eagles, they can only carry 12 to 13 pounds at a time, making them nearly impossible for larger eagles to lift.

How much weight can an adult bald eagle carry? A bald eagle carries a large stick, as seen by photographer Alex Lamine on November 4th, 2015 at Berry College. Mr. North dropped an unknown object of unknown weight from the ground on November 6, 2019, despite the fact that it appeared to be more than he could lift from the ground. As the air pressure rises and the wind picks up, the ability to take off and stay airborne increases, all of which affects the ability to fly and then stay airborne at the same time. The FAA points out that center of gravity deviations of less than three inches can have a significant impact on handling characteristics of fully loaded aircraft. A few of Neil Rettig’s observations from filming bald eagles along the Mississippi river were shared. According to Jim, eagles can lift even more in high winds.

Bald eagles are commonly thought to weigh less than 50-60% of their body weight. A bald eagle should have a body weight of 10%. If the incentives and flying conditions were optimal, the aircraft may have a greater capacity. With a weight of 108%, eagles can carry or glide. Among birds with males, the American kestrel has 145%, the Pallas’ Fish Eagle has 160%, and the tiny Calliope Hummingbird has 116%. DM2 took the fight to the Berry College girl after Mr. North and the Berry College male both failed. After he dropped the stick, it was much easier for him to lift from the ground. DM2 appeared to glide down rather than lift up, carrying him right into the nest, and his giant stick appeared to carry him all the way.

The worst nightmare for birds is when they come into contact with dogs. According to the National Wildlife Federation, eagles are not afraid to lift a dog up to 15 pounds, and they frequently do so. They are known for their incredible hunting ability, which is attributed to their strength and agility. Hawks, including eagles, eat dogs the most. The dogs, as small and weak as they are, are easy prey for predators. Birds of prey have become more common in urban and suburban areas, posing a threat to humans and their pets. They are magnificent birds capable of catching a lot of food, and they are powerful and powerful birds. The eagle is a predator, capable of catching and carrying small animals in addition to catching and carrying small prey. Make sure your dog is kept indoors and kept in close observation if you are concerned that he or she will be snatched by an eagle.

What Bird Can Pick Up A Cat?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the size and strength of the bird in question. Generally speaking, however, most birds would not be able to pick up a cat due to the size difference between the two animals. There have been isolated incidents of birds carrying off small kittens or cats, but this is rare and would likely require an exceptionally large and strong bird.

When a cat is looking for something, it is referred to as an opportunistic hunter. Birds, mice, rats, and other small vertebrates will all be consumed by these creatures. It is critical that a cat bite into an animal’s neck as soon as possible in order to kill it. The bite will break the spine, crush the trachea, or sever the carotid artery, all while snapping your neck. The cat will begin its hunt by stalking its prey. It will keep an eye on the bird while lowering itself to the ground. The cat usually advances quickly on the bird. When the cat reaches its range, it will leap at the bird, aiming its palm at it as it pounces.

Large owls are thought to have carried away cats in the past. Because cats and owls are nocturnal creatures, they are more active at night. Although it is extremely unlikely and very rare, large owl species are said to have carried away cats. It is common for owls and cats to spend the majority of their time in the dark at night. In general, owls are the primary prey for small dogs and cats under the age of 20 pounds. Despite the anecdotal evidence, it is not something that should be taken lightly, despite the fact that this is a highly unlikely occurrence. The owl and cat should not be treated lightly and should not be overlooked as predators capable of causing significant harm.

Cats Are Safe From Being Picked Up By Hawks, Bald Eagles, And Ravens

Cats cannot be picked up by a raven, hawk, or bald eagle because they are too small. In general, crows can catch and pick up a small cat, but this is unlikely because after catching the cat, the crow can move on to another prey.

Do Bald Eagles Attack Pets?

Small dogs and puppies, particularly toy or miniature breeds, are especially vulnerable to being attacked by birds of prey, according to The Spruce Pets. Large raptors are known to prey on animals weighing up to 20 pounds as part of a hunt.

Experts tell me that an eagle almost never attacks your dog. Bald eagles can carry up to three pounds in weight, with one to two pounds per animal. Eagle attacks on dogs weighing less than three pounds are not as common as they are on cats. Goldfinches, tree sparrows, and snow buntings are the most common birds to be seen on the roadside. Birds are typically in a body temperature range of 105 degrees F to 105 degrees F, and the more fluff they generate, the more air they expel. Are freeze-dried mealworms of the same type as live mealworms? In the winter months, there are fewer migrating birds and a few remaining in Duluth.

Birds consume fat on a daily basis in the winter to help protect themselves from cold weather. Because raw suet is available during the winter months, the plant is similar to what Mother Nature provides for mammals. You can also make homemade fatty treats and suet cakes, both of which are excellent.

What are some things that eat the bald eagle? Bald eagles, which are carnivorous animals, are not preyed upon in the wild. bobcats, wolverines, black bears, foxes, raccoons, and large birds are all common prey species for these young. Farmers, hunters, and ranchers have all tried various methods of removing these predators, but they remain a problem. Scarecrows are said to deter eagles from using an area for a short period of time, typically three weeks. If dogs are aggressive toward predators, they may repel eagles. Hazing with aircraft has a limited economic value and must be approved by the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Despite its status as the national bird of the United States, the bald eagle is vulnerable. We must all work together as a nation to make certain that these birds are protected, which is why the US Fish and Wildlife Service is working to protect them.

Bald Eagles: Don’t Let Your Pets Become A Meal

Birds, according to Gail Buhl, education manager at the Raptor Center, are typically fed fish or other birds, but puppies and kittens can also be fed to eagles. Despite the fact that bald eagles can pick up small puppies, they are not capable of carrying them very far and may sustain injuries if they fall. It is unacceptable to leave your pets outside without your supervision.

Do Eagles Attack Pets

Do eagles attack pets? It is possible for an eagle to attack a pet if the animal is small enough and the eagle is feeling particularly threatened or hungry. However, attacks on pets are not common and typically only occur if the eagle is unable to find other food sources.

Birds, unlike venomous reptiles and spiders, can be just as dangerous for small pets. A razor-sharp eagle‘s nacelle is capable of impaleing prey at a rate of 400 pounds per square inch. When diving, a bald eagle can reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour. An eagle can attack a dog weighing less than ten pounds at the most dangerous time. If an eagle attack is severe enough, the treatment and prognosis will be determined. In most cases, the dog will not survive unless it has only suffered minor puncture wounds. If your dog is struck by an eagle, there is a chance he will be injured, most likely by breaking bones, concussions, or organ damage.

Cover your dog’s outdoor enclosure if it is located near an eagle or other predatory bird. Small dogs may benefit from wearing protective gear like the puncture-resistant Raptor Shield in order to avoid being attacked by eagles. A short, non-retractable leash is best for playing outside and potty breaks.

The Beagle, on the other hand, may act on its own in response to perceived threats to its safety or to the Beagles’ perceptions of cats as prey. Even if the Beagles are unfamiliar with cats, they may still attack if they are cornered or threatened. Beagles have been accused of attacking cats out of instinct, despite the fact that they have never met cats before. As a result, both the cat and the Beagle may be harmed or even killed. It is critical to remember that even if your Beagle is friendly with cats, it will occasionally attack if threatened or cornered. If you are concerned about your cat’s safety, it is best to keep them separate from the Beagles.

Eagle Attacks: How To Keep Your Pets Safe

As a result, if eagles are in the area, keep your cat indoors during times when it is safe to do so. If you see an eagle in the area, keep your dog on a leash and keep your children away from it.

Do Bald Eagles Eat Rabbits

Some Bald Eagles eat primarily fish; others consume other birds such as gulls and geese, depending on their environment. Some mammals, like rabbits, lambs, and, yes, even adorable kittens, are more common than others on the menu.

Small animals and birds, such as rabbits, hares, grouses, and ptarmigans, are frequently eaten by eagles. A bald eagle can eat both fish and birds, such as ducks, geese, and puffins. Birds such as Golden eagles are common preyers of ducks, but adult owls are rarely targeted in hunting. Birds such as hawks, eagles, and other owls have been observed preying on owls. Birds are naturally enemies of one another, as is the case with eagles and hawks. Birds, like owls, will hunt hawks in order to find nesting sites, and eagles will hunt hawks as well. Bald eagles are capable of preying on cats, whereas most bald eagles are carnivores who primarily consume fish.

Young foxes, as well as full-grown foxes, are also preyed upon by eagles. It is a carnivore that eats rodents, other birds, and snakes. Bald eagles can weigh up to 7 or 8 pounds when they are at their best. Even the world’s largest eagles cannot carry more than 10 or 12 pounds at a time, but a small eagle can carry more than that.

Bald eagles are preyed upon by anglers, and they can be found in high numbers when there are a lot of fish. In addition to seabirds and ducks, small mammals like rabbits, squirrels, prairie dogs, and muskrats can be found on grasslands and marshes. Even though Tuesday’s feline feast may have been shocking or disturbing to some viewers, there are many good reasons to keep your cats indoors, such as “they might get slaughtered and eaten by eagles.”

Do Eagles Eat Rabbits?

Can eagles eat carrot? They consume rabbits. Adult rabbits, even those with small screech owls, can quickly be overwhelmed by the large barn owls, barred owls, hawk owls, or great horned owls that live nearby, even if they are not hunting. What types of rabbits do eagles eat? Cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.; hereafter, cottontails) are among the most commonly identified prey items in the diets of golden eagle breeding in the western United States (U.S.). What does a hawk eat besides spiders? Other birds are primarily eaten by Cooper’s Hawks, but if prey appears, they will consume squirrels, rabbits, and rodents. A Cooper’s hawk, unlike other raptors, kills by repeatedly squeezing its prey with its powerful talons, unlike other raptors that kill by grabbing their prey and biting the heads off.

Do Bald Eagles Eat Chickens

When the eagle is gliding down, it unfurls its hand-like claws, scoops up a chicken, and then circles up a branch to eat, with the larger bird laying the smaller bird on the branch for easy eating. The eagle’s beak is quite effective at removing the meat of other birds, but it is unknown when the chicken dies.

Bald eagles are on the loose at White Oak Farm in rural Georgia every winter. With little time and resources, the farmers are racing to adapt. One of the largest pasture flocks can be found here in White Oak. Approximately 60,000 birds wander the land on a regular basis, as long as the land is pasture-raised. Gary Harris sought assistance from the National Audubon Society in dealing with the birds. White Oak Pastures, a 2,500-acre farm in Georgia, raises pigs, chickens, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and many other animals. Because the animals move across the land and their droppings help fertilize it, this arrangement benefits both birds and ruminants.

The chickens also consume bugs found in cow dung, reducing the number of pests that can affect the cattle. We sell our products in Whole Foods in major cities throughout the southeastern United States, including Miami, Florida, and Princeton, New Jersey. It also owns an organic produce farm, small eggs, honey, and pet treats. Harris opened two abattoirs in 2007 and 2011 for a total cost of $7.5 million. However, Harris claims that the eagles are good for business, despite their irrationality. Visitors to the farm’s cabins were drawn in by a Facebook photo of the birds. A Bald Eagle can land in the middle of dozens of chickens and continue to pecking as if nothing had happened.

Daniel Coady claims that the chicken mortality rate at the farm is excessive. When chicks are scared, they flock into a corner of their house, all of which are huddled together in a panic. A $5,000 investment has been made by the farm to purchase noisemakers that must be manually set off between dawn and dusk. The eagles, on the other hand, may provide some financial relief as a result of their financial strain. In Bluffton, Georgia, White Oak Farms is one of the country’s largest privately owned poultry operations. According to Harris, if everyone farmed his land in the same manner that he does, eagles would likely go extinct and be replaced by more healthy populations. Nature’s rejection of monocultures explains why Harris transformed White Oak, according to his account.

How To Protect Your Chickens From Raptors

Birds are more likely to survive if they are kept in a wooded area with hawks and eagles hunting nearby. Using a mesh or solid roof to cover your run will also help keep the birds safe. If you have chickens that are free range, keep them in a secure location when needed.

Do Golden Eagles Eat Cats

Birds frequently eat cats, but rarely. Despite the fact that eagles are meat eaters, they also consume carrion. Fish is the most popular dish, followed by other birds and wildfowl.

Cats are occasionally eaten by eagles, though this is usually by females. Their preferred cuisine is fish, in addition to other birds and wild fowl. Flying an eagle can take it to heights of up to 15,000 feet. It takes about 35-40 miles per hour to cruise. Birds are aerial pirates in the wild, forcing other prey birds to give up their prey. Their greatest threat is man, and eagles nest and hunt far from human habitation. Except for some vultures, the size of an eagle is significantly greater than that of any other raptor.

A bird that swoops and carries its prey is the most common method of bird watching. The only hope for survival for an eagle after it has its talons drawn into its prey is to fall to the ground. An eagle can lift and fly away with an average weight of 4 pounds. The eagles have been observed preying on cats in the past, but this behavior is uncommon among this type of raptor. Birds are not a threat to cats living in urban or suburban areas.

Small dogs, particularly Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are prone to being killed by predatory birds. The majority of predatory birds seek out wild mammals for food, but small dogs may also be targeted. Despite the fact that a golden eagle can kill a man, it has never preyed on an adult human. Small dogs, particularly those that are small, such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles, are particularly vulnerable to predators. Adult humans are the only ones who have ever been preyed upon by golden eagles, despite their lethal strength.

Chester White Pig Pros And Cons

When thinking of pigs and the icons among them the Chester White has been severely overlooked. A colonial legend, this pig breed has been around for almost two centuries.

In heartland U.S.A, Chester County Pennsylvania, the larger than life and charismatic Chester White was born and bred on every pig farmers land in the county.

Originally known as the Chester County White, the unique breed is a product of the Woburn Pig which mated with other white pigs that were brought over from England to America somewhere between 1815 and 1817.

This Breed has the iconic pinkish white colouration like the pot belly and Yorkshire breeds, but usually present bulkier and grow quite large.

In 1890, the unification of the American Chester White Record Association and the Standard Chester White Record Association into the “Chester White Swine Record Association” saw the permanent recognition and moderation of this sought-after breed in America.

One of the many reasons this breed became so popular in the states among farmers is this pig’s ability to gain mass at an incredible rate. When conditions are optimal and the right quality food is used, the pig can convert 1.4 kg of grain into 620 grams of weight.

Thus, this breed is quick to increase flesh content which is known for a savoury taste and high-fat percentage. In a video, by Akudinulo Farms it is explained that these pigs are the “king of crossbreeding” as they represent all the desirable intermediate traits of the races that precede them.

This crossbreeding king has thus set a standard for modern pigs to adhere to in terms of flavour and family values.

A well-known consideration for pale pig owners is the fact that these animals require permanent access to shaded areas to avoid getting sunburn. Sunburn in livestock such as pigs can have deleterious effects on their health and well-being.

Despite these concerns with white skinned breeds, the Chester White Pig is the most durable of the pale breeds when considering this qualm. These breeds are known for their docility as well as other trait associated with positive sociality towards humans and other animals.

These pigs are wanted for their brilliant mothering abilities, which is essential for producing healthy generations of future mothers and fathers. With an iconic white belly and slightly dished face, this breed has superior bone density and structure when compared to other breeds.

The feet of these pigs are often used as a good indicator of overall animal well-being, as they tend to indicate how well these animals are being fed when considering the age that the trotter indicates.

A statement of an animal, these larger-than-life pigs are iconic when one thinks of the classic big hog, but what makes a Chester White a Chester White?

The defining characteristics between selection bred animals can get complex, but typically a Chester White will have a completely white coat with no significant colour variations, and drooping ears within a few days of births are also a strong indicator.

The texture of the coat is associated with a straight hairstyle rather than a curly one. When viewed from the side, a Chester white has a flat (horizontal) to slightly arched back.

The legs are stretched with good body depth without obstructing walking excessively. Strong hind legs with straight hinges and smooth ham forms are also charismatic in the breed.

The white and clean look of the fat and flesh when packed into meat production is associated by farmers and marketers alike with good taste and high quality.

The highly efficient and nutritious nature of this pig breed, combined with its desirable reproductive habits, will see that the Chester White remains an important breed in the world of Pig Farming for the foreseeable future.

Chester White Overview Table

Size Medium-sized

Mature weights:

Female: 227-295kg

Male: 250-363kg

Personality Docile breed of pig with high intelligence. Temperament Kind and easy to bond with. These pigs are selected for their kind mothering nature. Tendency To Bite When compared to animals of the same social stature these pigs have a very relaxed calm nature with low to no tendency for biting. It is to be considered that all pigs can bite painfully and first aid attention might be necessary in such a case. Dangerous? Because all pigs have tusks and can grow to a considerable size, they are to be respected and treated with admiration. However, when respected and comfortable, these animals pose no danger to humans. Tendency To Root? Their social nature and low energy personality mean they have a low tendency to root. Maintenance 6/10

These animals require basic clean shelter food and water with shaded shelter during summer months. They are not particularly high maintenance.

Family Pet 3/5

They could potentially be wonderful pets and only have their size and spatial requirements to consider as setbacks.

Intelligence These animals have been selected for their gentle nature and before this selection, these animals have evolved highly social cognitive abilities making them exceptionally intelligent for a domesticated farm animal. Exercise Needs Low to moderate. If these animals are offered mud and stimulation such as tyre toys or hay bales, they should have more than enough to be happy with. Health Issues Health considerations for this pig breed include skincare and caution when the animal is kept in a tropical area with a high UV index. They are also quite fatty animals, making exercise very important. Life Expectancy These animals are relatively short-lived but given proper care and attention they will live six to eight years. Price Approximately six dollars per pound

Chester White Pros

Hardy animals

Apart from desirable traits associated with the breeding behaviour of this animal, it also is known to thrive in relatively extreme environments. The most durable pale breed, it can withstand temperatures associated with arid environments, such as South Africa’s Northern Cape province where they are successfully farmed.

However, an animal that produces that much fat and protein while living in warm environments are ultimately faced with a temperature problem. The key to their thermoregulatory success is in the fact that they are a relatively medium-sized pig breed.

This intermediate size provides them with a body surface to volume ratio that is not too low to not let heat escape, and not too high so as not to let extra moisture escape.

Intelligent

They are intelligent animals that can adapt behaviourally to escape intense heat when the necessary shade is provided. In suitable conditions with relatively low maintenance, these pigs are quick to reward owners with high yields in both flesh and litter.

Docile

Since the ham and loin make up approximately 58% of the animal’s body, this is especially good for Chester White’s as their energy stores and nutrients are accumulated in these areas, giving them their characteristically delicious salty taste.

Family animals

Their keen senses and evolutionary development have given them the ability to communicate using pheromones secreted in saliva. The males often use this as a medium to signal mating urges and communicate other social cues which helps these animals’ bond.

Chester White Cons

They need stimulation

In the case of poor living conditions or neglect, these animals with their large intellect can sometimes develop some dysfunctional traits. Without stimulation or the necessary social bonding, it is not uncommon for pigs to become aggressively territorial.

They could be dangerous

If these pigs are neglected to the point of deleterious behaviour trait forming, they could pose a danger to people they meet. A wound sustained from these animals would typically not be fatal if medical treatment is available.

Not the most popular breed

Typically used for bacon, chops, or sausage meat the Chester White is surpassed in popularity only by breeds such as the Duroc and Yorkshire.

Need shade

Where this breed falls short is as with many other pale breeds in that it is susceptible to sunburn and associated health impacts. Without sufficient shade these pigs are in danger of dehydration and in the worst-case scenario, prolonged sun exposure can lead to skin cancer in your pigs.

Slow growing

When compared to their more popular cousins like the Duroc and Yorkshire, these pigs are relatively slow-growing and contain more fat per unit of body mass. Although they have a reputation for being durable, it is vital that these pigs are taken care of as far as their hydration needs are concerned.

Need a lot of water

These large animals require significantly large amounts of water just to thermoregulate and keep their bodies from overheating. Thus it is essential to fit a filtered trough with clean water into the habitat of your Chester White.

The Chester White is famous for being

Tips and facts for potential owners

a good mother. Producing litters of up to eight or more piglets, these animals are adapted to being patient and kind when it comes to feeding and tolerating their young.

The breed also has a great track record of being kept in spaces that are shared with other animals. They will often play or engage in social activities if given the chance.

The historic legacy of Chester County has a rich multi-faceted story to tell about how the Chester Pig has both its genetic and naming origins in the U.K. T

he first pigs in the valley came along much earlier from Swedish and Dutch settlers who introduced the first landrace white pigs, and ancestors of the Chester White.

More than a century ago the literature source known as the Chester White Journal was founded in 1910 by three elder sons of F.F. Moore: Fred, Levi and Jim.

Even though they are considered a “medium” sized breed, the Chester White is often entered into the Largest Boar competition in its hometown of Chester, where it competes and wins against supposedly larger breeds.

Conclusion

With its roots in Europe and the U.K. and made famous and powerful in the land of the free, the Chester White Pig is a classic All-American hog with flavour to boot.

Excellent in terms of meat quality, and extraordinary when it comes to mothering, this animal is obviously an incredibly important part of the human success story.

In many ways this pig ticks the iconic boxes of what we think of when we think modern-day pig, and not only that its kind nature and nutritional excellence is a testament to what we as a species has accomplished in the field of agricultural technology.

The beauty of these creatures lies somewhat in the fact that they can be perceived as so much more than just sustenance. With large brains and many other human-like features, this animal can surprise us with its emotional depth and capacity to form long-standing interpersonal bonds.

Their slightly smarter cousins are known to be used in organizations such as the FBI to sniff out narcotics as well as serve as emotional support animals. Clearly, the versatility of these incredible creatures has made impressions across the globe in more than one way.

Pale-faced and pretty, this humble hog will probably be around on pastures and plates for many generations to come.

THE WOUNDS from his fight with a baboon weren’t fully healed when Bismark charged the Cape buffalo.

We had spent the day trying to split two satellite bulls from the herd. I had been hired to photograph a plains- and dangerous-game safari in South Africa’s northernmost province of Limpopo, and I was shooting through my telephoto lens as one of the bulls broke from cover and charged.

The hunter shot the buff at 40 yards, then again. Bismark, a wire-haired Jack Russell, stood at heel beside his handler, professional hunter Divan Human. I don’t know how many shots were fired—both by the hunter and the PH—as the buffalo thundered to 15 yards, but it wasn’t dying. That’s when Bismark broke heel and tried to ride it.

As a lifelong hunter, I’ve seen bayed bears and treed mountain lions. As a nuisance wildlife professional, I’ve pulled badgers out of holes and I’ve been face to face with rattlesnakes under houses. Nothing compares to that Cape buffalo charge. They’re called “black death” in South Africa, and I get that now. But the heart of a terrier is unmatched, and Bismark was ready to die for us.

Bismark is unshakable, but he’s no one-hit wonder. I saw a dozen blood-tracking dogs while on safari this spring; every one was a Jack Russell. The breed was first developed in Britain for fox hunting, and its prevalence in South Africa today is a byproduct of British colonialism. Although I didn’t see any on my trip, Jagd terriers (“jagd” is German for “hunt”) are also popular among South African outfitters.

The cool thing about terriers is they can do a little bit of everything. I’ve owned Jagds for nearly a decade and they’re integral to my nuisance wildlife business in the Southwest. Although it’s no longer commonplace in the U.S., terriers were originally bred for this work. They excel at finding dead animals, locating live ones, and catching critters. Because of all that tenacity packed into a small body, they also have a tendency to get hurt on the job. (As the Jack Russell Terrier Club of South Africa puts it, the “real Jack Russell terrier does not sit on the sidelines of life.”) While PHs here release their dogs on most game tracks, they don’t allow them to trail warthogs, which are notorious for killing dogs.

When Bismark was younger, one of Human’s clients shot a big Nile crocodile and Bismark broke at the shot. That’s scary because you’re relying on a client to not shoot your dog, but you also don’t want the animal alive enough to kill your dog. Fortunately it was a good hit, but that’s just how it goes with terriers sometimes: You can’t proof a dog until you put him in situations like that. I saw lots of animals harvested in the three weeks I was there, and only now and then would a dog slip up and break at heel.

A standard track looked like this: As soon as the shot went off and the PH released his dog, the trackers would run in and try to keep up. Because we were hunting in such thick cover—50-yard shots were far in some cases—you couldn’t see the dog 100 yards away, let alone the kudu that was just shot. It was helpful to hear barking so you could locate him.

After a shot the dog was off to the races, and the human tracker was not far behind. And the trackers were incredible. I was skeptical at first. I’ve heard stories of how great they are, but I couldn’t help thinking: I’ve hunted my whole life. How good can these guys really be? What you don’t realize is those trackers hunt year-round except for the rainy season and they track lots of animals every day.

Better yet, the dogs don’t take away from the tracker’s job because often the tracker’s job isn’t just finding downed game—it’s finding live game. South Africans only use their blood dogs for locating animals that have been hit well.

Fortunately, the Cape buffalo was well hit—several times. In the end, the bull slid to a stop just yards from our feet, with Bismark barking on its back.

Read more OL+ stories.

The best snow goose loads are those that perform well across a wide range of conditions and provide knock down power to harvest birds cleanly. With snow goose hunting, these factors almost always come down to shot size selection.

The best shot size for snow geese is BBB steel shot. Why? Because a good patterning load of BBB steel shot contains enough pattern density and energy to consistently harvest snow geese at up to 50 yards or more. A 1.5 ounce load of BBB shot contains 91 pellets and enough energy density to retain at least 300 feet per second (FPS) out to 55 yards. My favorite load is the Kent 1 9/16 oz. BBB load.

In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of most popular shot sizes for geese and discuss what makes BBB steel shot the most effective.

Most Popular Shot Sizes for Snow Geese

Steel shot size selection for snow geese can range anywhere from #2 shot all the way up to T-shot. With such a wide range of shot sizes, it can be confusing when trying to determine which shot size is the best. The typical shot sizes for snow geese are #2’s, #1’s, BB shot, BBB shot, and T shot.

Shot Size/Pellets Per Ounce/Max Distance

• #2 shot – 124 pellets – 40 yards
• #1 shot – 102 pellets – 43 yards
• BB shot – 72 pellets – 45 yards
• BBB shot – 61 pellets – 50 yards (Best Shot Size)
• T shot – 52 pellets – 55 yards

Snow geese aren’t the toughest of birds, so cleanly harvesting them doesn’t require large shot sizes. I’ve even used #4 shot on snow geese that were decoying close and it worked perfectly fine.

The problem with small shot though is that it doesn’t work well as an all-around pellet size. Most snow goose hunts require varying degrees of distance, angles, and other factors that work against your load the second it leaves your barrel.

Related: Need a new choke tube? Check out the list of the top performers here.

I’ve found BBB steel shot the best combination of pellet density and energy down range to cover just about any shot you should be taking within reason. It has the range for both decoying birds and those hanging up on the edge of the spread that won’t fully commit. BBB shot also has the energy to cleanly pass through snow geese resulting in less cripples and sailer’s that you have to waste time chasing.

Why BBB Steel Shot Is the Best Shot Size for Snow Geese

When you sit down and compare BBB steel shot to other shot sizes, the differences are noticeable.

• BBB shot contains 61 pellets per ounce, or around 91 pellets for a 1.5 ounce load. This is plenty of pellets for a dense 40-50 yard pattern through an aftermarket choke.
• Larger shot like BBB retain enough energy for shots around 50 yards or more allowing you to harvest more birds.
• The energy density of large BBB pellets insures that birds will be harvest cleaner and reduce the amount of wounded birds.
• BBB shot gives you the most opportunity to harvest snow geese as it’s ballistically superior for constantly changing hunting conditions.

Here is a great clip on how to pick the right pellet size for snow geese

Features to look for in the best snow goose shotgun shell loads:

• Adequate pellet densities for the situation you’ll be hunting in. If you only shoot decoying snow geese, then the high pellet density loads of #1 shot will work well. For an all-around snow goose load, BBB’s work the best.
• Shotgun shells above 1400fps work better. The best loads are 1600 fps or higher with steel shot.
• Loads that pattern well with your shotgun.
• Zinc coated pellets for corrosion resistance.
• Sealed crimps to prevent water intrusion.
• Hulls that cycle well with your shotgun. Some work better than others.
• If you’re looking for the best snow goose ammo, check out our top picks here.

Popular 3 inch and 3.5 inch Waterfowl Ammo

About Pellet Sizes and Pellet Density When Choosing a Goose Load

Pellet size and density are both factors you should consider when choosing which snow goose load to shoot for the spring conservation season. An increase in pellet density will result in a decrease in pellet size and an increase in pattern density.

Example: If you normally shoot BB steel shot, you can switch to #4 Hevishot for a load that has similar ballistics in both range and pellet energy, while gaining 120 pellets.

Steel Shot Vs. High Density Shot – Which is better?

• Steel Shot – Steel shot density is 7.9 g/cc and is the cheapest snow goose load you can buy. It works well for decoying birds, but lacks long range capabilities.
• High Density Shot – High Density Shot comes in a wide range of materials and alloys that include Bismuth, Hevishot Alloy (Nickel, Tungsten, Iron), and Tungsten. High Density Shot is basically any shotgun pellet heavier than steel. Pellet densities range from 9 g/cc to 18 g/cc. High density pellets are the best shot type for long distance goose loads.

I’ve used both steel shot and high density loads for snow geese and my preference is high density. Why? Because the pattern density and range of heavier than lead loads is unmatched.

Steel shot is currently the lightest material used for harvesting waterfowl in the U.S. and it loses its energy really quickly down range. It also requires larger pellet sizes to retain energy, which decreases pattern density.

The best thing about steel shot is that it’s affordable and if you go through a ton of shells each season it’s more economical.

High density loads like Hevishot, Bismuth, and TSS are ballistically superior to steel in every way. Since the pellets weigh more, you can get the same ballistics out of smaller pellets, thus increasing your pattern density and putting more pellets on the birds.

High density loads pattern tighter, hold their pattern longer, and let you extend your range further out so you can cleanly harvest birds that hang up just out of range of steel shot. The major downside is cost, as Tungsten based loads are considerably more expensive than steel shot.

If money is no concern, high density shot makes for the best snow goose loads you can use. I’ve written about my top 10 tips for having a good snow goose hunt, and shooting high density loads is an important factor.

The Gaining Popularity of High Density Shot for Goose Hunting

When lead shot was outlawed for waterfowl hunting in the 1970’s, the only other option at the time was steel shot. Since then, shotgun shells for waterfowl have drastically improved to provide dependable loads that work well across a wide range of waterfowl hunting situations.

This year is no different, and the gaining popularity of high density loads for geese is now greater than ever. Between Hevishot, TSS, and Rio Bismuth shot, there’s a high density load that fits almost everyone’s budget and hunting needs.

As high density loads become even more popular, I expect the options to increase even further. High density loads are superior to steel shot in every way. Spend one season shooting it exclusively and it’s difficult to go back to steel shot.

But if you must shoot steel shot for snow geese, try BBB on your next hunt and see how it performs for you. I’ve shot many cases of it, as well as other steel shot sizes, and it is the best all-around pellet size I’ve found. If you want to try high density shot, try Hevishot #2’s for the best snow goose load ever made.

The best coyote light is going to play to the few disadvantages nature’s premier predator has. Coyotes have great eye sight, hearing, smell, and agility which makes it very difficult for coyote hunters to see them long enough to pull a shot off. Many times coyotes will come and go while the night hunter is not aware of their presence. It is important that your coyote hunting lights are designed to light up dogs before they’re senses tell them you’re in the area. Hunting lights for coyotes are few and far between, but some of the best coyote hunting lights can be the difference in getting busted or having a successful set while calling coyotes.

Coyote Hunting Light Discussion Topics

• Coyote Weaknesses
• 5 Features Every Coyote Light Should Have
  • The Best Color Light for Coyote Hunting
  • Adjustable Hunting Light Intensity
  • Long Range Spot and Flood Combination
  • Mounting Versatility for all Hunting Vehicles
  • Strong & Non-Reflective Light Housing
• Recommendation for the Best Coyote Hunting Light

Before we ask ourselves what the 5 must have features are of coyote hunting lights, let’s dive into a coyotes weak points. If you don’t want to read the background information on a coyotes weak points (to better understand the 5 features we choose), scroll down to the bottom to see the 5 Features Your Coyote Hunting Light Must Have.

Coyote Weaknesses

THEIR VISION

While it is true that coyotes have good vision, they have a hard time seeing higher wavelength colors. The approximate high end of the wavelength spectrum they can see is near 540 nm, which is very close to green in color. Red is near 660 nm wavelength, which is why coyotes have a very hard time seeing it. Separate from colorations, coyotes do have better night vision and sensitivity to movement compared to humans. We humans are able to level the playing field by utilizing our gadgets and accessories. To compare coyotes vision to human vision, SC Psychological LTD. has done a great job at putting together a color spectrum graph:As shown in the graph above, a coyote can see two primary colors: yellow and blue. This is common vision for deer, hogs, and other dichromate vision mammals as well, so it doesn’t just apply to coyote hunting lights. This is also one reason why it is best to not wear blue jeans when going deer hunting or coyote hunting as they tend to stick out like a sore thumb. If they are covered by a high rack or deer blind, of course then they are an ok option.While coyotes don’t have the greatest color vision, another weakness is that they are not able to see as far as most humans can. Humans (some cases require glasses or contacts) can see 20/20 vision. Coyotes vision is closer to 20/70 vision and some may have even worse vision. This basically means a coyote can see at 20 feet what a human can see at 70 feet. The one vision strength coyotes have over humans is their peripheral vision. This is what can make it very hard to sneak up on a coyote. A human has 180 degree peripheral vision while coyotes have 260 degree peripheral vision. This is due to the shape of their head and location of their eyes. This is ultimately why coyote hunters should stay as still as possible, because any small bit of movement can be detected fairly easily if a coyote is in range. Here’s more information about the science behind a coyote’s vision and how to determine what color coyote hunting light works best for night hunting.

THEY LET EVERYONE KNOW WHERE THEY ARE

If you’ve ever been in coyote territory at night, you’ve most likely heard their high pitched yipping and howling they make prior to going on their nightly hunt. If you’re calling in a dominant male coyote’s territory – you may hear the dominant male howling or even barking at you from a distance. These yips and howl have a variety of behavioral purposes, all of them are related to communicating to other coyotes in the surrounding area. One purpose is to call the pack back together after a period of individual hunting, which is behavior you may hear in the early hours of the morning.

Another purpose, which is commonly heard as the sun goes down, is to warn other coyotes in the surrounding area of their presence and to not trespass on their territorial boundaries. These coyote packs may sound like there are 10-20 coyotes howling together, but in most cases it is one male, one female, and their offspring. Most packs are sized in the range of 3-5 coyotes. The howling can make your skin crawl if it’s the first time you’ve been exposed to it, but the best coyote hunters are able to use this to their advantage. The coyotes are telling you exactly where they are, leaving it up to you to move in close and find them. A Utah State Professor conducted a study which sought out to understand the behavioral attributes of coyotes and ultimately determine the meaning behind different types of barks and howls. You can learn more about this in our article Callin’ all Coyotes: Proven Tips for a Successful Coyote Hunt Across the United States.

THEY LOOK BACK WHEN THEY RETREAT

If you’re a quick, sharp shooter – this can play to your advantage. They have a habit of always looking back when they retreat, which gives a coyote hunter eye shine to go off of in attempting to take a shot. Using your coyote hunting light to quickly scan your surroundings can give you the best opportunity at picking up a retreating coyote. If the coyote located you and you are the reason it was spooked, then it may be time to move on to a different hunting spot. However, if the coyote was uncomfortable or unknowingly spooked, you may be able to save your stand by changing spots (even if it’s only 50 ft away) and calling again using a different call. It’s important to be aware that spooked coyotes and pressured coyotes are both very difficult to bring in. If you know the coyotes around you are spooked or pressured, it’s best to keep your coyote hunting light on a dim setting to minimize the opportunity for them to pick up any small changes in their surroundings.Another common scenario we’ve seen is if you call in a double or a triple but you are only able to take one coyote down – don’t give up. After the first shot, say you are running on a rabbit distress, switch to a pup distress-like high pitch sound and sometimes a coyote who hasn’t been heavily pressured will turn around and come back. We’ve had success with this tactic on coyotes that haven’t been heavily pressured. If a coyote is heavily pressured, they may not return for a long time.

HEAVY SLEEPER

Coyotes are very heavy sleepers, which is why it’s not always a complete shock for someone to stumble upon a sleeping coyote in a field or pasture. The flip side is that they typically sleep during the day as they are more active at night.If you’re night hunting, you have pretty slim chances to come across a sleeping coyote. Coyotes are nocturnal animals and they will easily travel 5 miles in one night searching for food. On the flip side, if you happen to locate a sleeping coyote, that lets you know they are spending time on your property and are comfortable enough with it to stay there during the day time. This is one indicator that you should break out your coyote hunting light at night to see if you can call in the entire pack.

5 Features Every Coyote Light Should Have

We’ve managed to compile some of the coyote’s weak points, now how can we take advantage of these weak points when looking for a quality predator hunting light for coyotes?

The Best Color Lights for Coyote Hunting

Coyotes are color blind by nature and because of this, the best color light for coyote hunting is red. They have a hard time seeing green as well, but red is a better color because it is a higher wavelength and gives you some “buffer” from the cut off of what wavelength light their eyes are able to see. Put this to your advantage by utilizing red coyote hunting lights in your arsenal.

It is important to realize that red is a very difficult color for many manufacturers to perfect. Due to the nature of the color, the company you choose must be one capable of engineering a beam that can truly throw the high wavelength color down range. There are very few predator hunting lights we have seen that are capable of doing this, with the Predator Cannon Hunting Light being one of the best we have ever seen. It is very rare to have a coyote hunting light that can literally light up an entire field in red.

Adjustable Hunting Light Intensity

Take advantage of coyotes telling us where they are. You can sneak into their territory with your light dimmed down until you locate them, then turn up the heat!Coyotes have great peripheral vision and they are able to pick up on the smallest movements and even shadows coming from light beams. The best way to locate and keep tabs on a shy coyote is to be capable of adjusting the intensity of the coyote light prior to illuminating the coyote without spooking it. It’s always good practice to increase intensity of your coyote hunting light to full intensity right before you take the shot. This gives the coyote hunter the best opportunity at an accurate shot.If you have a hard time getting a coyote to stop for an accurate shot, we’ve found making a loud kissing sound with your lips will often cause them to halt in their place. This is referred to by some coyote hunters as the “kiss of death”. It is also commonly used if a coyote appears to be disinterested, because it can spark their attention and sometimes cause them to start coming towards you. If they are fast approaching, you can increase the intensity of your coyote hunting light and get ready to take a shot.

Long Range Spot and Flood Combination

Next time the coyote looks back after a missed shot, get redemption with a coyote hunting light that is still lighting them up while you’re reloading!A study once found that coyotes will circle their prey within a large area, in attempt to validate what is going on with all of their senses prior to committing to the prey. Predator hunters lure them in with calls, pretending to be the coyote’s prey. Thus, coyotes will do the same to predator hunters. When choosing hunting lights for coyotes, it is important to have a wide flood light capable of lighting up coyote eyes across a large area. It is equally important that your lights for coyote hunting have the ability to reach out long range to spotlight coyotes before they commit. There are very few lights capable of doing both of these features, and the Predator Cannon Hunting Light is one of the best coyote huntings lights there are at lighting up an entire field.

Mounting Versatility for all Hunting Vehicles

You may be tracking through fields on foot, riding your side by side through the woods, or hunting from the high rack on back of your truck. Regardless of where you are chasing coyotes, your light needs to be versatile for all of these scenarios. A quality light for coyote hunting must be capable of lighting up large areas, spotlighting down range, and have versatile mounting capabilities. These features are hard to find but essential. We’ve managed to design a coyote hunting light fully compatible with these qualities. The Predator Cannon Hunting Light comes with a variety of mounting choices. The standard option is the side-mounted brackets which are great for mounting the light to your side by side, high rack, car or truck. An added option is the bottom-mounted brackets which give you more flexibility to get creative with the hunting light and even mount it to your own tripod or hand grip. Over 200 watts of red coyote light illuminating an entire field in the grips of your hands is second to none.

Strong & Non-Reflective Light Housing

You’ve found a piece of land to hunt, located the coyote, made it to the right spot, set up your hunting rig, and the last thing you need to ruin your night of calling is moonlight reflecting off the housing of your scan light while hunting those pesky animals. Another common one I’ve heard of is dropping the light from a high rack which many times can end up breaking. Now you’ve got a gun that works but no way to see the coyotes.

I would recommend going with a flat black, strong aluminum housing such as what is on the Predator Cannon Hunting Light. A predator hunting light designed for these instances will not only give you more confidence in a successful trip, but it will hold up to the out of the ordinary accidents that seem to always happen at the most inconvenient times.

Recommendation for the Best Coyote Hunting Light

The Predator Cannon Hunting Light is one of the best lights for coyote hunting available on the market today. It easily mounts to high racks, ATVs, trucks, and more while discretely lighting up more area.

What makes it the best light for coyote hunting?

The high intensity, dimmable LEDs are engineered to maintain your night vision while also staying at the optimal wavelength for color blindness in coyotes. Unlike any other long range light, this coyote hunting light is capable of broadcasting a flood to illuminate an entire field while also providing a long range spot beam for locating coyotes in the distance. The more area you can see, the better your chances at seeing more coyotes.

Outrigger Outdoors is your trusted source for coyote hunting lights. To setup your hunting rig with lights made for coyote hunting, contact us today!

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Looking to learn how to train a bird dog?

My whole life I have grown up around dogs and spent time helping my Dad train our family Labradors. We never sent one to a professional trainer, as my dad always told me he finds it just as effective to use the dog’s natural instincts. Labrador retrievers are known for their long history of bird hunting and obviously, retrieving. With all of our family hunting dogs, I have witnessed and experienced how truly simple it can be to train a bird dog once YOU, the handler, learn how to work with that instinctual drive. In August of 2019, I adopted my very own black lab puppy named Goose. It has been a while since I trained up a bird dog, but Goose made me realize just how rewarding the process can be.

Introduction to Bird Dog Training: Unleashing the Potential

When it comes to training a bird dog, there’s more to it than meets the eye. It’s a captivating journey of nurturing instincts, building trust, and honing skills. Bird dog training is not just about transforming a dog into a hunting companion. It’s about unlocking their innate abilities and forming a bond that transcends the fields.

The Perfect Match: Breed Selection for Bird Dogs

Every great bird dog begins with the right breed. The world of bird dog enthusiasts encompasses a wide range of breeds, each with its own unique set of characteristics that make them exceptional hunting partners. From the energetic and versatile Labrador Retriever to the focused and steadfast German Shorthaired Pointer, the choices abound. Understanding the traits and tendencies of different breeds can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your hunting aspirations.

In the realm of bird dog training, various breeds have gained popularity due to their specific skill sets. Let’s explore a few notable contenders:

Labrador Retriever: The Versatile Companion

The Labrador Retriever, a true icon among bird dogs, has cemented its place as one of the most versatile hunting breeds. With a natural inclination for retrieving and an unwavering eagerness to please, this breed excels in both upland and waterfowl hunting. Their intelligence and trainability make them an ideal choice for novice trainers, while their gentle disposition and loyalty endear them to families as beloved companions.

German Shorthaired Pointer: The Agile Athlete

If agility and endurance are paramount, the German Shorthaired Pointer shines. This breed boasts remarkable speed, athleticism, and an innate ability to locate and point game birds. Their keen sense of smell and natural instinct to track make them adept at navigating various terrains, from dense cover to open fields. With their unwavering determination and boundless energy, they are a force to be reckoned with in the hunting world.

English Springer Spaniel: The Tenacious Flusher

The English Springer Spaniel is a breed revered for its exceptional flushing skills. Equipped with a keen nose and a knack for finding and startling game birds into flight, they excel in upland hunting. Their natural ability to locate and flush birds, coupled with their gentle nature and unwavering loyalty, makes them a popular choice among avid bird hunters seeking an enthusiastic and reliable companion.

Brittany Spaniel: The Agile All-Rounder

The Brittany Spaniel, often referred to as the “Brittany,” is a breed known for its remarkable versatility. With an inherent drive to hunt and a natural inclination for both pointing and retrieving, they are adept in a variety of hunting scenarios. The Brittany’s intelligence, agility, and willingness to please make them well-suited for hunters who desire a compact, adaptable partner that excels in both upland and waterfowl environments.

In the vast world of bird dog breeds, these are just a few notable examples. Each breed brings its unique strengths to the table, and the choice ultimately depends on the type of hunting you envision and the traits that resonate with you. Remember, finding the perfect match between breed and handler is an essential step towards a successful bird dog training journey.

Tips and tricks to help train up your first (or second, or third…) bird dog

Obedience

Dogs in general, especially labs, are born to please! Use that mindset when training your pup. Make lots of eye contact, use lots of small treats, and use as much praise as possible when they do the right thing. Focusing on basic obedience such as house training and “sit, lay down, stay, and come/here” commands are keys to building up a hunting dog. Goose was able to follow these commands and fetch a ball by the time he was 12 weeks old because his training was CONSISTENT, daily, and often. Use every interaction as an opportunity to train!

Practical Exercises

Take your pup out! Whether it’s for a swim or a long walk in the woods, not only are you bonding with your puppy, but you are also exposing them to the types of terrain and scents they will encounter while hunting. Buying bird scent of your choice (duck, goose, pheasant, grouse, etc…) and spreading it on a dummy or ball to throw or drag for your puppy to chase and retrieve is a great way to build their drive for birds. Another important subject to touch on is shooting…gun shy dogs can present a real problem in a hunting situation. To avoid this, try occasional target shooting with your dog present, but at a distance, and start with a low gauge/caliber gun. If possible, bring your pup to the local gun club on shooting nights to expose them to gunshots.

Training Aids

It doesn’t cost much to get the things you need to effectively train your puppy. Here is a quick list of a few things I use for Goose: Training treats, throwing dummy, tennis balls, assorted bird scent or wings saved from hunting season to wrap around throwing dummy, Sportdog Brand training collar (we started using this when he was about 5 months old), live birds (you may be able to find a dove or quail farm near you to purchase training birds).

Looking for more on hunting with dogs?

Patience

I know this is something you read in nearly every dog training article/book/website, but it is also the most important! Puppies have short attention spans, so you may need to cut training short if attention is lost, or be able to push through several failed attempts without expressing your frustrations to the pup. Keep in mind that some things will be harder for your pup to learn than others, but keep training fun and interesting, and always keep a positive attitude. Expressing anger with the puppy can only make things worse.

Today, Goose is a year and 2 months old, and he is already a beast of a bird hunter. The following few weeks after getting him, I spent at least 1 cumulative hour a day on obedience training such as following commands, waiting for his food, and housebreaking. By 3 months old, he came to North Dakota with my Dad and me on a duck hunting trip and was eager to follow around our older, more seasoned labs, and had his first water retrieve. At 5 months old we took him to game farms to pheasant hunt, and he found 100% of our paid for birds. Why am I telling you this? Because it’s all about exposure. Your puppy will only be as good as you want if you give him/her the opportunity to learn, make mistakes, and most importantly, have fun doing what their breed was born to do.

The Art of Retrieving: Techniques that Fetch Results

Retrieving is a fundamental skill for a bird dog. Teaching your canine companion to fetch objects lays the groundwork for their future success in the field. Here are three effective techniques to incorporate into your bird dog’s training regimen:

Dummy Training

Start by introducing your dog to retrieving using dummies or retrieving bumpers. These specialized training tools resemble birds or small game, and they allow your pup to practice picking up and delivering objects without harming real birds. Begin by tossing the dummy short distances and gradually increase the distance as your dog becomes more comfortable. Encourage them to retrieve and praise their success.

Scent Training

A crucial aspect of retrieving is teaching your bird dog to follow scents. Introduce the concept of scent by attaching a small bird wing or using bird scent products to the dummy. This helps associate the scent of game birds with the act of retrieving. Start by allowing your dog to sniff the scent and then hide or throw the scented dummy for them to find and retrieve. This exercise enhances their natural instincts and strengthens their ability to track game.

Introducing Live Birds

Once your dog has progressed in their training, it’s time to introduce live birds. This step should be approached with caution and consideration for the bird’s safety. Use game farm-bred birds or seek guidance from professional trainers to ensure humane practices. Start with clipped wings to limit flight and provide a controlled environment. Gradually increase the complexity of the retrieves, encouraging your dog to flush and retrieve the birds. This hands-on experience is invaluable for honing their hunting skills.

By incorporating these retrieving techniques into your training routine, you’ll help your bird dog develop the necessary skills and instincts to excel in the field.

Training a Bird Dog: Overcoming Challenges

Training a bird dog is an exhilarating journey filled with triumphs, but it’s not without its fair share of challenges. From distractions to disobedience, each dog presents unique hurdles to overcome. In this section, we’ll address common issues that may arise during bird dog training and provide practical tips for troubleshooting.

Tackling Distractions: Focusing Amidst Temptations

Distractions can pose a significant challenge during bird dog training. Dogs, especially those with a keen sense of smell and a curious nature, can easily get sidetracked by scents, sounds, or other animals. To combat distractions, follow these tips:

• Gradual Exposure: Introduce distractions gradually, starting with controlled environments. Increase the level of distraction over time as your dog becomes more focused and reliable in their obedience training.
• Positive Reinforcement: Use high-value treats and plenty of praise to reinforce desired behaviors. Reward your dog for maintaining focus and resisting distractions. This helps them associate focus and obedience with positive experiences.
• Redirect and Refocus: If your dog gets distracted, calmly redirect their attention back to you and the task at hand. Use cues or commands they are familiar with to regain their focus.

By consistently working on focus and gradually exposing your dog to distractions, you’ll help them develop the ability to concentrate even in the most tempting situations.

Dealing with Disobedience: Communication and Consistency

Disobedience is another hurdle to overcome in bird dog training. Dogs may test boundaries or exhibit stubbornness, making it important to address the issue promptly and effectively. Consider the following strategies:

• Clear Communication: Ensure your commands are clear, concise, and consistently reinforced. Use a firm, but not harsh, tone of voice to convey your expectations. Avoid confusing or conflicting commands that may lead to disobedience.
• Consistency: Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. Maintain a structured training schedule and enforce rules consistently. Reinforce desired behaviors and promptly correct any disobedience.
• Positive Reinforcement: Focus on rewarding good behavior rather than solely punishing disobedience. Use treats, praise, and playtime as positive reinforcement tools to motivate and encourage your dog to comply with commands.

By establishing clear communication, maintaining consistency, and utilizing positive reinforcement techniques, you’ll be on your way to overcoming disobedience challenges during training.

Unlocking the Retrieve: Strategies for Success

Difficulty in retrieving can be a common stumbling block during bird dog training. Some dogs may be hesitant or reluctant to fetch objects, hindering their progress in becoming proficient retrievers. Here are some techniques to encourage and improve the retrieve:

• Patience and Persistence: Retrieving may not come naturally to all dogs, so patience is key. Break down the retrieve into smaller steps and reward incremental progress. Celebrate even the smallest efforts to build your dog’s confidence.
• Retrieving Games: Make retrieving fun and engaging by incorporating games. Use toys or dummies that your dog enjoys and gradually increase the complexity of the retrieves. Play interactive games that involve fetching and returning objects to you.
• Scent Association: Enhance the retrieve by associating scents with the objects. Introduce bird scent or hide scented objects to pique your dog’s interest and strengthen their drive to retrieve.
• Retrieve with a Purpose: Connect the retrieve to real-life hunting scenarios. Start with simple retrieves in familiar environments, then progress to more challenging situations. By making the retrieve meaningful, your dog will understand its importance in the hunting context.

With consistent practice, patience, and creative approaches, you can overcome difficulties in retrieving and unlock your bird dog’s full potential.

A Healthy Bird Dog: Nutrition, Exercise, and Care

A crucial aspect of training a bird dog goes beyond obedience and retrieving skills. It lies in ensuring the health and well-being of your loyal companion. In this section, we’ll explore the vital role of nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary care in maintaining a robust and thriving bird dog.

The Power of Nutrition: Fueling Optimal Performance

Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in supporting your bird dog’s overall health and performance. Just like athletes, these energetic canines require a well-balanced diet to fuel their active lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know:

• Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality dog food specifically formulated for active breeds. Look for brands that prioritize animal-based proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
• Protein for Muscle Development: Protein is vital for muscle growth and repair. Ensure your dog’s diet includes sufficient amounts of lean meat, fish, or poultry as a source of quality protein.
• Healthy Fats: Healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, promote optimal brain function and coat health. Incorporate sources like fish oil or flaxseed into your dog’s diet.
• Carbohydrates for Energy: Carbohydrates provide the necessary energy for your bird dog’s active lifestyle. Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains and vegetables.
• Hydration: Always provide fresh water for your dog to prevent dehydration, especially during training sessions or outdoor activities.

Remember, consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding schedule based on your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Regular monitoring of your bird dog’s weight and adjusting their diet accordingly is essential for maintaining optimal health.

Exercise: Key to Physical and Mental Well-Being

Exercise is not only crucial for physical fitness but also for the mental well-being of your bird dog. Engaging in regular physical activities helps release excess energy and promotes a balanced temperament. Consider the following:

• Daily Exercise Routine: Establish a consistent exercise routine that includes activities like brisk walks, jogging, swimming, or retrieving exercises. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day, depending on your dog’s age and breed.
• Mental Stimulation: Engage your bird dog in mental exercises to keep their minds sharp. Puzzle toys, scent games, and obedience training sessions can provide the mental challenges they need.
• Variety and Socialization: Vary the types of exercise and introduce new environments to keep things interesting for your bird dog. Socialize them with other dogs and people to foster their social skills.

By providing regular exercise and mental stimulation, you’ll not only enhance your bird dog’s physical fitness but also strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion.

Veterinary Care: Ensuring Longevity and Well-Being

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining the long-term health and well-being of your bird dog. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• Vaccinations and Preventive Care: Keep your bird dog up to date on vaccinations and preventive treatments for parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and heartworm. Consult with your veterinarian to establish an appropriate vaccination and preventive care schedule.
• Annual Check-ups: Schedule annual wellness exams to assess your dog’s overall health, identify any potential issues early on, and receive professional guidance on nutrition and training.
• Dental Health: Pay attention to your bird dog’s dental hygiene. Regular brushing, dental treats, and annual dental cleanings can help prevent dental diseases.
• Spaying or Neutering: Consider spaying or neutering your bird dog unless you plan on breeding. This procedure can prevent certain health issues and unwanted behaviors.

Remember, your veterinarian is your partner in ensuring the well-being of your bird dog.

Here are some answers to your most common questions on how to train a bird dog:

What breeds are commonly used as bird dogs?

Bird dogs are commonly trained from breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shorthaired Pointers, English Setters, Brittany Spaniels, and Pointers.

How do I choose the right breed for bird dog training?

When choosing a breed for bird dog training, consider factors such as the breed’s temperament, energy level, size, hunting instincts, and compatibility with your lifestyle and hunting preferences.

What are some tips for training a bird dog in obedience?

To train a bird dog in obedience, establish a consistent routine, use positive reinforcement techniques, break training into manageable steps, be patient and persistent, and seek professional guidance if needed.

What are practical exercises I can do with my bird dog to build their hunting skills?

Practical exercises to build hunting skills include scent training, introducing birds, practicing retrieves, fieldwork with simulated hunting scenarios, and gradually exposing the dog to different hunting environments.

What training aids are recommended for bird dog training?

Recommended training aids for bird dog training include bird launchers, scent dummies, check cords, retrieving bumpers, training collars, whistles, and training scents.

How can I address distractions during bird dog training?

To address distractions during bird dog training, start in a controlled environment, gradually increase distractions, use positive reinforcement to redirect focus, and reinforce basic commands in different scenarios.

What should I do if my bird dog shows disobedience during training?

If a bird dog shows disobedience during training, stay calm and assertive, review basic commands, reinforce training fundamentals, adjust training methods if necessary, and consult a professional trainer for guidance.

What techniques can I use to improve my bird dog’s retrieving skills?

To improve retrieving skills, utilize positive reinforcement, introduce retrieving drills, gradually increase difficulty, encourage natural instincts, use retrieving bumpers or dummies, and establish a consistent training routine.

How important is nutrition for a bird dog’s performance?

Nutrition plays a crucial role in a bird dog’s performance. Provide a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support energy levels, muscle development, and overall health.

What kind of exercise routine is recommended for a bird dog?

A bird dog should have a regular exercise routine that includes daily walks, free playtime, structured training sessions, and opportunities for mental stimulation. The routine should be tailored to the dog’s age, breed, and energy level.

How can I provide mental stimulation for my bird dog?

To provide mental stimulation, incorporate puzzle toys, interactive games, scent work, obedience training, retrieving exercises, and regular exposure to new environments and experiences.

What is the importance of regular veterinary care for a bird dog?

Regular veterinary care is essential for a bird dog’s health and well-being. It includes vaccinations, preventive treatments for parasites, routine check-ups, dental care, and early detection of any health issues to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Bottom Line? Instinct is what makes your puppy the bird dog that it will grow up to be. Your puppy wants to make you happy…let it. They to be praised…reward it. Your puppy wants to explore…take it out. Your puppy wants to smell things…give it a scent to follow.

And always remember, your dog doesn’t just work for you, you work for your dog as well. What are your tips for training a bird dog?

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The Ruger Mini-14 has proven its ruggedness since it started riding around in pickups in 1974, but getting it to consistently shoot neat little groups at 100 yards has often been an exercise in frustration. Accuracy—frankly not the Mini-14’s strongpoint—has generally taken a backseat to its simple and reliable operation. With competitive action-shooting events on the rise, Ruger decided to address this issue, introducing the Mini-14 Target Rifle accompanied by claims of minute-of-angle performance.

Appropriate for a Mini-14 derivative, the Target Rifle keeps the fixed-piston gas system and rotary bolt with dual locking lugs borrowed from the M1 Garand and the line’s military inspiration, the M14. The investment-cast receiver and L-shaped charging handle have a matte-stainless finish. Scope bases integral to the receiver—a feature that debuted on the Mini-14 Ranch Rifle during the early 1980s—also fittingly appear on the Target Rifle. Ruger includes high, 1-inch rings for mounting an optic, which is mandatory since the receiver and barrel are devoid of iron sights. Other features manifest in the Mini-14 family and carried on with the Target Rifle are a Garand-style safety, stout magazine release lever and ventilated, fiberglass handguard that covers the barrel from receiver to gas block.

The similarities end there.Ruger started its Mini-14 makeover by going straight for what most often is the deciding factor in a rifle’s accuracy—the barrel. Though the lightweight, 18 1⁄2-inch barrel of the standard Ranch Rifle makes for quick and easy handling, it has many times bore the brunt of the criticism stemming from inaccuracy. The Target Rifle, in contrast, has a heavy, hammer-forged, stainless steel barrel that is .78 inch in diameter where it emerges from the gas block, with an additional 3 1⁄2 inches of length. Its six-groove rifling has a 1:9 RH twist to stabilize all but the heaviest .224-caliber match bullets.

Prominent on the barrel is a 41⁄2-inch-long, harmonic-dampening weight. The 3⁄16-inch-thick sleeve slips over the barrel, and four Allen-head screws keep it in place. A series of helical grooves on the barrel’s surface allow the position of the harmonic dampener to be changed by turning it after loosening the attachment screws. Rotating the harmonic dampener clockwise moves it toward the receiver, while turning it counterclockwise shifts it toward the muzzle.

Barrel harmonics, or the vibration of the barrel during firing, can greatly affect point of impact and group size. Functions that occur within a rifle such as the firing pin striking the primer, the ignition of the propellant, the expansion of the propellant gases and the bullet’s contact with the rifling as it travels through the bore all produce a number of vibrations that are ultimately transmitted to the barrel. These vibrations cause the barrel to move in an arc, even before the bullet has exited the bore. If these vibrations were absolutely consistent, there would be a lot of rifles shooting one-hole groups. However, their magnitude and duration vary from shot to shot, and five bullets may leave the bore when the muzzle is at five different points on the vibration-induced arc. In part, this is why even a very tight group will still somewhat resemble a triangle.

One way to control vibration is to add weight to the barrel, which soaks up the impulses. The heavy barrel on the Target Rifle works together with the harmonic dampener to reduce the amplitude of the arc, making bullet exit, and therefore point of impact downrange, more consistent. Different loads, of course, can produce different amounts of vibration, and the ability to adjust the harmonic dampener allows the shooter to tune the barrel to obtain the best accuracy with any given ammunition.

A beefy barrel does not a target rifle make, so Ruger continued overhauling the Mini-14 by giving it a stock eminently suited for shooting from the bench. The thumbhole buttstock has a large, triangular-shaped cutout just behind the pistol grip that not only lets the thumb encircle the pistol grip, but also provides a stable shelf on which its fleshy base can rest. Along with the slight swell to the pistol grip, the design promotes a steady, repeatable hold. The stock’s high, slim comb rises slightly at the heel and digs into the cheek for a tight weld. So it will nestle solidly into a sandbag, the toe is rather thin and parallels the comb for 3 inches. The stock’s lower line then curves dramatically upward before running forward to the pistol grip, forming a hook for the non-shooting hand to press against and keep the rifle firmly settled on the bench. Three removable, black plastic spacers just forward of the rubber buttpad let shooters adjust the stock’s length of pull from 14 to 15 1⁄2 inches in 1⁄2-inch increments. In keeping with the theme of the Target Rifle, Ruger gave the fore-end a 2-inch-wide flat spot to make it easy to rest the gun on sandbags or hold in an offhand position. The stock is constructed of a gray laminate that complements both the stainless finish of the rifle’s metal and the black handguard.

A Mini-14 that will shoot minute of angle? I, too, was skeptical. But to give the Target Rifle a fair chance, I topped it with a Sightron SII Big Sky 4.5-14×42 mm scope and waited for a calm day to test Ruger’s claim. I picked the 55-grain soft-point load from Black Hills to start. The first several groups from the 100-yard line were around 2 1⁄2 inches—pretty much what I expected from a Mini-14 and certainly nothing to write home about. Then I began playing with the position of the harmonic dampener and shot as many holes in the criticisms of this autoloader’s accuracy as I did targets. With this particular load, the rifle liked the forward end of the harmonic dampener to be positioned about 3⁄4 inch behind the muzzle. Thusly tuned, it produced five, five-shot groups that averaged 1.03 inches. Pretty dang close, and two of those groups measured inside the minute-of-angle standard. I tried several other loads, including some with match bullets weighing between 69 and 75 grains, but none of them delivered the accuracy of my first pick. The runner-up was the 50-grain Winchester Supreme Ballistic Silvertip load, which averaged 1.10 inches after 25 shots. Perhaps with a little more tweaking I could find the harmonic dampener’s sweet spot with these other loads and shave a little from their group sizes.

True to the nature of the Mini-14, I experienced no failures to feed or fire during testing, and that was during approximately 400 rounds of 12 ammunition types over three days. No complaints there, but I did have an issue with the Target Rifle’s trigger. At 5 1⁄2 pounds of pull weight, it’s quite heavy for a rifle intended for target work, and I had to squeeze through a lengthy amount of creep. Nonetheless, I learned to live with it, and from the factory the Target Rifle performed as advertised.

The Mini-14 is rarely described as being pinpoint accurate, and in fact, until now it was never made to be. With some modifications, Ruger has turned this ubiquitous truck gun into a rifle ideally suited for chewing out bullseyes. I’d call the Mini-14 Target Rifle accurate any day.

In the world of handguns, few names command as much respect and admiration as Glock. Renowned for their reliability, durability, and adaptability, Glock pistols have earned their place in the holsters of law enforcement, military personnel, and responsible gun owners worldwide.

Our team of special operations veterans and pro shooters have been shooting Glock models for years, on active duty, in competition, and as civilian concealed carriers. Together, they have over 200 years of experience shooting Glocks and can provide valuable insight to anyone looking to buy a Glock pistol.

In this extensive guide, we’ll delve deep into the realm of Glock pistols, exploring their history, shared features, model variations, and, most importantly, the best Glocks available today.

Background

Before we dive into the specifics of Glock pistols, let’s briefly touch on their origin. Our journey begins with the visionary engineer Gaston Glock, an Austrian entrepreneur with a polymer and synthetic materials background.

In the early 1980s, Glock responded to a request from the Austrian military to develop a new handgun, marking the inception of the Glock pistol.

Gaston Glock’s innovative design incorporated a polymer frame, a striker-fired mechanism, and a straightforward yet reliable operation. These groundbreaking elements catapulted Glock to the forefront of the firearms industry, forever changing the landscape of handguns.

Best Glock Pistols

Choosing the Right Glock for You

Purpose

First, determine the primary purpose for which you intend to use the firearm.

If it’s concealed carry, opt for a compact or subcompact model like the Glock 19, 43X, or 26, which balance concealability with firepower.

For home defense, consider a full-size or compact Glock, such as the Glock 17 or Glock 19, offering a blend of size, capacity, and accuracy.

In professional or duty settings, prioritize reliability and durability, making the full-size Glock 17 or Glock 22 popular.

Competitive shooters will want pistols optimized for accuracy and performance, with the Glock 34, designed specifically for competitions, being an excellent option with its extended barrel and improved trigger.

Frame Type

Frame type is another crucial consideration. Glock offers three main frame types: full-size, compact, and subcompact, though there are also some other variants on these.

Full-size frames provide a comfortable grip, making them ideal for duty use and competition, while compact frames, like the Glock 19, offer versatility, suitable for concealed carry and general use.

Subcompact frames, such as the Glock 43X and Glock 26, prioritize deep concealment and portability.

Full-size and compact frames are great duty sized handguns, while compact and subcompact frames are both good for shooters looking for a carry gun.

Caliber

Your choice of pistol cartridge matters as well. 9mm is the most popular for its manageable recoil, higher capacity, and affordability, suitable for various purposes.

.45 ACP delivers substantial stopping power but with more recoil, favored by those prioritizing larger caliber rounds. .40 S&W provides a compromise between 9mm and .45 Auto in terms of power and capacity, often chosen for law enforcement.

Capacity

Next, consider magazine capacity. Standard capacity magazines range from 10 to 17 rounds, striking a balance between capacity and concealability.

However, extended magazines, available as aftermarket accessories, can increase capacity, offering extra rounds, sometimes even without altering the pistol’s overall size.

Carefully assessing these factors ensures you’ll choose the right Glock pistol that aligns perfectly with your specific needs and preferences.

MOS or Standard Models

“MOS” in Glock terminology stands for “Modular Optic System.” Glock MOS models are equipped with features that allow for the easy attachment of optical sights, such as red dot sights or reflex sights, directly onto the pistol’s slide.

The Glock MOS system typically consists of a milled slot or plate on the slide that accommodates various mounting plates or adapters. Shooters can then attach compatible optical sights to these mounting plates, allowing them to co-witness with the pistol’s standard sights or provide an unobstructed view through the optic.

Gen 4 vs. Gen 5

Glock has introduced several generations of pistols, with Gen 4 and Gen 5 being the most recent.

Perhaps the most noticeable of these changes is removing the finger grooves previously found on Glock grips to accommodate shooters of all hand sizes better. Glock also improved the grip texture to help ensure a firm grip and front slide serrations to make racking the slide easier.

While the overall dimensions between the Gen 4 and Gen 5 remain relatively similar, eagle-eyed enthusiasts will spot a slight increase in width for the Gen 5 model. This minor alteration, though subtle, might pose compatibility challenges with specific Gen 4 accessories, particularly holsters.

Glock also widened the mag well, facilitating faster reloads, though it’s essential to remember that proper training remains crucial for mastering the art of swift magazine changes.

For southpaw shooters, Glock took another step in the right direction by adding an ambidextrous slide stop on the Gen 5. This thoughtful addition makes it much easier for left-handed shooters to engage the slide without the need to adjust their grip.

Finally, Gen 5 Glocks boast both a barrel upgrade and trigger upgrade, promising improved accuracy and a more refined shooting experience.

However, you can’t go wrong with Gen 4, either. Both generations are well-regarded and have their devoted followers, so if you’re not too worried about these differences, you may be able to save a bit of money by going with a Gen 4 model.

FAQs

Do Glocks have a safety?

While Glocks don’t have a manual safety or grip safety, Glocks do feature a unique safety system called their “Safe Action” system. This three part safety system includes a trigger safety, firing pin safety, and drop safety to ensure that Glocks cannot be fired unless the trigger is directly and completely pressed.

What are the best Glock sights?

Glock factory sights are known for being, well, not the greatest. For that reason, many Glock owners opt to upgrade the stock Glock sights for aftermarket sights. Choosing the best Glock sights largely depends on your personal preferences and use cases.

Some popular options include tritium night sights for low-light shooting and red dot sights for enhanced target acquisition.

What are the best Glock triggers?

The best Glock trigger is a matter of personal preference, as different shooters have varying preferences for trigger weight and feel. Some aftermarket options include the Apex Tactical trigger and the ZEV Technologies trigger, which allow customization to suit your liking.

Why are Glocks so popular?

Glocks have achieved popularity due to their reputation for reliability, simplicity, and versatility. These reliable pistols are known for functioning flawlessly in various conditions and requiring minimal maintenance, making them a dependable choice for a wide range of users.

The Bottom Line

That brings us to a close on the best Glocks. Glock pistols have rightfully earned their place as some of the most trusted and widely used firearms in the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a novice exploring the world of handguns, there’s likely a Glock model that aligns with your needs and preferences, and with this guide to the best Glock pistols, you should have all the information that you need to choose the perfect Glock for you.

Remember, responsible firearm ownership entails not only choosing the right firearm but also obtaining proper training and adhering to safety practices. Embrace the responsibility that comes with gun ownership, and enjoy shooting responsibly.

By considering your purpose, frame type, caliber preference, and capacity requirements, you can confidently select the ideal Glock pistol for your specific needs. As you embark on your journey with Glock, prioritize safety, continuous training, and responsible firearm usage. Happy shooting!

A message from EatThePlanet.org: “We are happy you found us! We strive to be informative and accurate. Enjoy what you find here! Take a look at our new downloadable pdf eBook A Complete Guide To Foraging. We put a lot of work into this eBook and are very excited to share it with you.” – Joe Forager(Owner)

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in September 2013. Updated April 2022.

The name ‘wild cherry tree’ refers to a number of species in the genus Prunus. Some of the most common include the black cherry (Prunus serotina) and the chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), both of which are native to North America. There is also a species native to Europe called wild cherry (Prunus avium). All three of these common cherry species have similar characteristics, but there are factors that can help you tell them apart. Both the fruits and bark of the North American species have an interesting history of usage in Native American culture.

Edibility and culinary use

The only edible part of the plant is the flesh of the fruit, as, like store-bought cherries or apples, even the seeds contain toxins. The taste of the fruit can vary between species and even individual trees within the same species. The European wild cherry (Prunus avium) is also known as the ‘sweet cherry’. As the name suggests, the fruits are much sweeter than their North American cousins. Because of this, they are the original wild version of the cherries that we buy at the supermarket.

The black cherry and chokecherry have a similar taste which is usually described as bitter, often with a hint of sweetness. Some trees produce fruits with a sweeter taste, but the bitterness is almost always present. They can be eaten raw right off the tree as a snack while out walking or hiking. However, they’re more commonly used in pies and other recipes. If eating them raw make sure to choose the darkest and softest cherries, and make sure you spit out the seed. Wild cherries usually ripen in summer between May and June depending on the species and area.

Health benefits of wild cherries

Cherries contain a number of very effective antioxidants including chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol. Some studies involving chokecherries indicate that they could potentially lower high blood pressure. The high number of antioxidants in black cherries could also help to ease inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis.

Cherries are an excellent source of fiber, potassium, and many B-vitamins. HealthTrends.com has some more indepth information on the benefits of B-vitamins and potassium in your diet.

Cautions and lookalikes

The leaves, bark, seeds, and all other plant parts of the cherry tree contain a substance called hydrogen cyanide that can break down into cyanide. It’s a well-known toxin that can be very harmful to humans. Grazing animals are often lethally poisoned by eating too many cherry leaves. Hydrogen cyanide has a very bitter taste, so if you ever come across berries that are extremely bitter it may be best to avoid them.

When foraging for any wild berries, make sure to follow these fundamental identification steps. Wild cherries generally do not closely resemble any poisonous wild fruits. However naive foragers could mistake black cherries (Prunus serotina) for deadly nightshade or moonseed berries.

How to identify wild cherry

Wild cherry trees can usually be identified by their leaves and bark. The leaves will have finely serrated edges and the bark typically features horizontal lenticels on newer growth, and sometimes older growth too. Chokecherry and black cherry trees are very similar in appearance, however, the chokecherry tree usually has smaller, glossier leaves.

Another good identification feature is that many cherry trees have a fungus called black knot which creates large and small cankers or burls on the tree. Black knot affects many plants in the Prunus genus including cherries and plums. When collecting wild edibles, always make sure to follow Safe Foraging guidelines.

Wild cherries in Native American culture

Cherries were a vital source of nutrition to ancient cultures across Europe and North America, including Native Americans. Wild cherries would have been eaten freshly picked or dried and stored with other berries as a winter supply of fruit. The dried fruits would be used in many dishes including ‘pemmican’, a traditional high-calorie Native American food that was created for long journeys. Dried meat and fruits would be ground down and then mixed with animal fats and stored in rawhide bags to preserve them.

The bark of wild cherries was also collected and used in Native American medicines. It would be ground into a powder or boiled to create teas. It was used mainly to treat respiratory illnesses like coughs and colds. However, it was also used to stem bleeding, and treat digestive complaints like diarrhea or cramps. Chokecherry bark was also used by some groups in a herbal smoking mixture known as Kinnikinnick. The ingredients varied between groups, but it usually contained notable bark and leaves from certain valued plant species.

Conclusion

Chokecherry and black cherry trees are a common find in many parts of the US, especially in the eastern states. They’re also a valued food source for plenty of wildlife too, especially deer, birds, and even bears. If you identify a tree in the wild, or even in your own backyard, try a cherry or two. Personally, I like to eat them freshly picked in small quantities during the summer.

Do you have a local source of wild cherries near you?

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