Game Calling, Scents, and Decoys

Game Calling

Calling is an effective technique for most animals.

• There are hundreds of sounds that can attract all types of wildlife. A skillful hunter uses these sounds to attract animals close enough to him or her for an effective shot.
• Here are some of the sounds that can be imitated to draw game to you.
  • Territorial sounds: Deer “rattle,” elk “bugle,” or a turkey “gobble”
  • Feeding sounds: A duck's feeding “chuckle”
  • Distress sounds: Inviting coyotes, bobcats, or foxes to feed

Scents

Chemicals released from an animal’s glands or waste give off scents that communicate to other animals.

These scents are used to:

• Mark territory.
• Attract others for mating purposes.

Non-game scents can be used to mask human odor or attract game animals.

• Pine or earth scents cover body odor and allow hunters to get close to game animals without frightening them.
• Odors that smell like preferred foods attract animals to an area to feed.

Decoys

Decoys are life-like models of game used to lure animals toward a hunter’s position. They are typically used to hunt waterfowl—ducks and geese—and wild turkey.

Decoys are most effective when used with scents and game calling.