A decoy is an imitation of an animal used to attract real animals into shooting range, often employed in hunting to lure prey closer to the hunter or their ambush location. Decoys are commonly used in hunting for waterfowl, upland game birds, and some larger game. They are designed to resemble the appearance, movement, and sounds of the target animal, making them an effective tool for drawing animals in, especially when they are wary or hesitant to approach a hunter’s position.

Decoys are typically made from various materials, including plastic, foam, or even natural materials like wood. For waterfowl hunting, decoys are designed to mimic ducks, geese, or other waterfowl species, often placed on water to simulate a flock. For upland game birds, decoys may imitate species such as pheasants, turkeys, or quail. In some cases, decoys are motion-activated to simulate the movement of animals, further enhancing their realism.

The strategic placement of decoys can significantly improve hunting success by creating a more natural and inviting environment for animals. For example, placing decoys in a position that mimics a feeding or resting group can make it more likely that passing game will approach, believing the area to be safe or occupied by their kind. This makes decoys not only a tool for attracting game but also an effective means of manipulating animal behavior and drawing them within shooting distance.

While decoys can be very effective, hunters must also consider factors like wind direction, movement, and the natural behavior of the species they are targeting. Proper use of decoys requires knowledge of the animals’ habits and the surrounding environment to ensure the decoys’ placement is convincing enough to lure the real animals into range.