Whole bird policy

We have all read in the shooting press that our fraternity is under increasing pressure to ensure that gamebirds are not shot in vain. Whilst the skill and accuracy of a good shot is to be applauded, the birds that are shot must then be respected and put to good use. As a veterinary surgeon, I graduated taking an oath to preserve and protect animal welfare. My husband is a superb shot and was instrumental in introducing me to shooting and, thus, conservation and good shooting ethics.

My husband’s family have operated and run a small game shoot in Leicestershire for nearly 40 years. It requires a small team of experienced guns and a dedicated team of beaters to maintain the ground, rear the birds and make the shoot days happen. Having just had our first baby, the desire for longevity of both our shoot and the sport has never been so great.

Early on in our relationship, my husband and I decided that our seeming juxtaposition could be acceptable if we embraced a “whole bird” approach. In the season, all birds bagged are prepared and eaten. Whilst eating a pheasant curry, it struck me that we could make use of the magnificent feathers from the shot birds, and so The Pheasant’s Festoon was conceived. It’s a cottage industry that I created and it fills my spare time. The aim is to utilise even more

of the birds we bring home and, in so doing, produce unique, beautiful, individual feather boutonnières [pictured below left] to add a touch of country chic to any outfit. They have proved popular for weddings and evening events with both men and women.

The farming community have long since understood the need for diversification. Perhaps the gameshooting community can do more to fly the flag for British game.

Jen Wormleighton, by email