The Historical Significance of Bird Hunting in Sare
Nestled in the heights of Sare, located within the Pyrénées-Atlantiques region of France, one can find a unique and historical method of bird hunting that has persisted for centuries. This hunting technique, which involves the use of nets and a sophisticated strategy known as 'rabat,' has been documented as far back as the 14th or 15th century, according to Michel Leremboure in a study published by Eusko Ikaskuntza in 2003. The pantières, or nets, have been deployed across the pass between Sare and Etchalar, located on the Navarre side, creating a captivating scene that draws both history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike. The impressive stone towers and metallic posts that line the paths serve as remnants of this time-honored practice, which is unlike any other hunting tradition.
The art of capturing pigeons using this method relies on orchestrating a series of movements from elevated positions, where hunters employ visual and auditory cues to lure the birds into the nets. The nets themselves, which stand at least ten meters high, stretch across a small section of the Sare pass, creating an effective barrier for the incoming birds. As described in a report by Sud Ouest, the intricate setup demonstrates not only the skill involved but also the deep-rooted cultural significance of this practice within the local community.
The Mechanics of the 'Rabat' Technique
The rabat technique operates through a relay system, where hunters positioned at strategic points utilize white boards and cloths to mimic the presence of predators, guiding the pigeons towards the nets. A report from France Bleu details how hunters at the Lepeder pass deploy these tactics to direct the birds, which often approach from the north after being startled by hunters hiding in the surrounding forests. This method combines physical gestures and sounds that imitate the wingbeats of birds of prey, creating an illusion that prompts the pigeons to descend towards the ground, inadvertently flying into the awaiting nets.
The local lore surrounding this practice is rich, with tales suggesting that a shepherd's discovery of throwing white stones to scare the birds may have inspired the design of the pantières themselves. While these narratives are deeply rooted in tradition, they remain unsubstantiated by ornithological studies, leaving an air of mystery around the effectiveness of the hunting methods employed.
As for the legal context, the use of nets for bird hunting is permitted in five departments of France, including Pyrénées-Atlantiques. However, this practice is currently under scrutiny, as the European Commission announced in February 2025 that it would bring France before the EU Court of Justice regarding compliance with the Birds Directive. The Commission contends that France has failed to demonstrate that the hunting methods employed meet necessary conditions for selectivity and the absence of alternative solutions, a point that has sparked significant debate among local hunters and conservationists.
Despite the challenges faced, the passion for this traditional hunting method continues to thrive among local communities, as reflected in the burgeoning population of pigeons in France. According to the National Federation of Hunters, the breeding population of pigeons has increased by 137% as of 2024, illustrating the ongoing relevance of this cultural practice amidst changing regulations and ecological considerations.
As reported by sciencepost.fr.
