Wing Shooting

Wing shooting in Southern Africa has gained increased popularity in the past few years for hunters headed to the Dark Continent to test their skills. A day or two of wing shooting can easily be tacked onto a plains game hunt or even a dangerous game safari and prove to be a very pleasant diversion.

From the semi desert in the west, to the plains and rivers of the Highveld and on to the savannah of the Northern Transvaal, the wing shooter can find more than 20 different species of game birds. Best wing shooting opportunities present during June, July, and August, which coincides with the open seasons in most of South Africa's provinces. Being a rather social affair, wing shooting is best done in small groups. The ideal size of the group is two but even a group of four hunters can be easily accommodated.

The bird species most commonly hunted in Southern Africa, range from the sand grouse and quail, to the francolin, guinea fowl, and various species of dove and pigeons. Two species of geese are available, the Egyptian and Spurwinged Goose can make for a very challenging hunt. If your wing shooting preferences slant toward ducks, the Yellow Bill, White Faced Whistling, and the African Shell Duck may be your "cup of tea". Several species of Teal are also available and these small, quick, and agile waterfowl can give even the most competent of shot-gunners a real challenge. All species are not available in all areas, and local province restriction may apply, so be sure to make your preferences known when booking your safari.

A South African wing shooting experience can be extremely pleasurable whether it be your primary goal or just an add-on to your big game safari.