Time to get digging

People often ask me if they should add a duck pond to their shoot but, like so many simple questions, there isn’t a simple answer. Some will be outspoken in their disapproval, having witnessded ducks in a fithy, muddy enviroment — which is of no conservation value— with apparently no desire to fly. But if you get it right, a well thought-out pond can be a first-class addition to your shoot.

Introducing a pond should add variety and possibly more challenging shooting. In terms of expenses, ducks provide a better prospect than partridges and are easier to rear than pheasants. Their shovel-like beaks will mean a higher food bill than other releases, but with luck a higher return as well.