Jackdaw hunting – an underrated form of hunting
The jackdaw is one of Sweden's most common corvids and is often hunted alongside crow. But jackdaw hunting deserves attention in its own right – jackdaws react strongly to decoys and can deliver outstanding action.
Jackdaw behaviour
Jackdaws are social birds that move in flocks and are naturally curious. That makes them receptive to decoys – when they see their own kind that appear relaxed and feeding, they are drawn in. Jackdaws often nest in built-up areas and farmland, so access to hunting ground is generally good.
Gear for jackdaw hunting
Decoys
Use jackdaw decoys in silhouette format. A flock of 12 gives a convincing impression. Mix feeding and alert postures – that mimics a natural flock where some birds feed while others keep watch.
Add crow decoys
Jackdaws and crows often feed together. By mixing jackdaw decoys with crow decoys you create a larger, more believable flock that pulls in both species.
Hide and camouflage
The same principles apply as for crow hunting – a well-concealed hide is decisive. Jackdaws are, however, slightly less wary than crows, so you can sometimes get away with a simpler hide.
Spread and tactics
- Location: Freshly harvested fields, grassland on the edge of built-up areas, pasture.
- Timing: Morning and late afternoon, when the jackdaws move between roost and feeding area.
- Decoy placement: 10–20 metres from the hide. Spread them out naturally – not in straight rows.
- Combination: Use jackdaw decoys together with crow decoys for maximum pulling power.
Open seasons
The jackdaw has a general open season in Sweden, but the dates vary between counties. Always check the open seasons in force for your area before you head out. If you hunt outside Sweden, check the rules of your own country – season dates and the legal status of corvids differ from one country to the next.
With the right decoys and a little patience, jackdaw hunting can become one of the highlights of the season. See our jackdaw decoys in a 12-pack here.
