“Roost shooting is one of those things that never gets boring. No two evenings are the same, and when it’s done properly, it’s hugely effective as well as a great sport.” – Dan Thor
Roost shooting is one of the most effective and rewarding ways to control pigeon numbers during the winter months. It plays a vital role in protecting crops while offering some of the most varied shooting you’ll experience in the field. For Dan Thor and Lyalvale Express, it’s a key part of responsible pigeon management once the game season has come to an end.
In the UK, February has long been considered prime time for roost shooting. With game shooting finished, focus shifts to vermin control and safeguarding farmland ahead of spring drilling. It’s also an ideal time to stay active in the field and keep shooting skills sharp through the quieter months.
So why does roost shooting work so well at this time of year, and what makes the difference between an average evening and a really productive one? We sat down with Lyalvale Express ambassador Dan Thor to talk timing, conditions, positioning, and the cartridges he relies on when it matters most.
When Is the Best Time for Roost Shooting?
Late afternoon through to dusk is when roost shooting really comes into its own. As pigeons return to woodland to settle for the night, their movements become far more predictable.
By February, birds are usually well patterned. Food is harder to come by and pressure on farmland increases, which makes this month particularly productive. Dan’s approach is simple: spend time watching first. Understanding where birds want to be before setting up often makes all the difference.
How Does Weather Conditions Affect Roost Shooting?
Weather plays a big role in how successful an evening can be. Cold days with a strong wind are ideal, as pigeons tend to fly lower and slower while working into the breeze. These conditions often make birds more committed to the roost, which can result in more consistent shooting opportunities.
Rather than waiting for perfect conditions, Dan focuses on adapting to what the weather is doing on the day and positioning accordingly.
How do you Find the Right Spot in the Woodland?
Choosing the correct area within a wood is critical. Look for clear signs of roosting activity such as white droppings beneath trees, established flight lines, and dense ivy-covered trees that provide shelter. These areas are where pigeons naturally want to drop in as the light fades.
Correct positioning is just as important. Safe backstops, allowing birds to approach naturally, and avoiding over-pressure on one area are all key to effective and responsible roost shooting.
Why is Roost Shooting Important for Pigeon Control?
Roost shooting remains an important method of pigeon control, helping to reduce damage to crops such as oilseed rape later in the year. When carried out correctly, it is an ethical and efficient way to manage numbers while supporting farmers and protecting farmland.
From a sporting point of view, it also offers fantastic variety. Expect fast crossers, birds dipping through trees, and challenging wind-affected shots. This mix makes roost shooting excellent practice, helping to improve gun handling and decision-making during the off-season.
What are your Favourite Cartridges for Roost Shooting?
Having confidence in your cartridges is essential, particularly as light levels drop and shots become more challenging.
For lead loads, Lyalvale Express Pigeon Power 29g No. 6 is a proven choice, offering reliable patterns and consistent performance in real field conditions.
Where steel shot is required, Lyalvale Express Precision Steel 28g No. 5 delivers effective patterning and dependable performance, making it a solid option for winter pigeon shooting.
A Late-Season Tradition Worth Keeping?
Safety, respect for the quarry, and consideration for the land should always come first. When approached responsibly, roost shooting remains one of the most effective and enjoyable late-season shooting disciplines, combining practical pigeon control with genuinely challenging sport.
“Those last twenty minutes of light in February are hard to beat. You learn a lot, you stay sharp, and you know you’re doing a worthwhile job.” – Dan Thor
For cartridges designed for real-world shooting, explore the full range of Lyalvale Express Cartridges, trusted by shooters across the UK for performance when it matters most.
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