While flying over the dense forest of oaks and ash trees of the Pays Bazadais, it is possible to hear a very distinct sound, a “rou-rou-rou-rou-rou”. It’s Eric, a passionate hunter, who imitates the song of the woodpigeon to attract them. “Welcome to my palombière!” » he says proudly. Based in Lerm-et-Musset, in the south of Gironde, this 62-year-old former forester lives exclusively for woodpigeon hunting, both with net and rifle. More than just a hobby, it’s a family heirloom that he cherishes. “I was born in there” he confides. At home, the passion is transmitted: his wife, his children, all participate in this practice. A cabin, tunnels, nets… it took him years to install them, and each hunting season awakens in him an intact fervor. However, this tradition could disappear, like other forms of hunting in France.
Dove hunting a tradition
Perched in the guard, an elevated observation post, Éric watches for migratory birds with his faithful Leïka, an English setter, at his side. This is where everything comes down to patience and excitement. “This is where we spend the whole month of October! ». He handles his call, explains hunting jargon. “The chicken attracts the woodpigeons, the cages are ready, the pest captures them…” For him, every detail counts. It is therefore not uncommon for him to return empty-handed, but this does not affect him. “We take a few dozen woodpigeons while we see thousands pass by”. And when he catches one, it’s to cook it with his family. “We eat them in salmis or pâté.”
Hunters’ concerns about the future of woodpigeon hunting
This family bond is precious. “We meet here with friends and family, it’s fun, moments of happiness”. For Éric, dove hunting is inseparable from his childhood. His father was also a hunter, and these memories remain anchored in him. It’s not just a sport or a tradition for him, it’s a way of life. Yet these traditions falter under threats of ban. “After the ortolan and the doves, today it’s the lark, and tomorrow it will be the woodpigeon” he fears. His concerns also resonate throughout the village, where traditional hunting is a pillar of daily life.
The importance of regulating species
In this corner of Gironde, opinions are divided. Jacques, also a hunter, finds this unfair. “Everything is being taken away from us little by little! “. While Daniel, a wildlife photography enthusiast, raises another question. “I find it strange that hunting is allowed during migration”. Yet, even Daniel recognizes the importance of regulating certain species. He therefore does not want to ban hunting, but rather limit its time. This debate is shaking up the entire region, where hunters, in solidarity, continue to demonstrate to defend their practices. Eric, for his part, is preparing for a new season, hoping to pass on his passion to the next generation, starting with his future grandson. “I hope he’s a future goshawk hunter!” ».
