Bird callers are cool woodwind instruments that mimic the vocal patterns of real birds. They are great for musicians, people who love nature, sound designers, bird watchers, and anyone who appreciates musical instruments. In this guide, you will learn all about bird callers, the different types available, and how to play them to get the best sound.
What Is a Bird Caller?
A bird caller is a small hand-held woodwind instrument used to imitate the natural calls of specific bird species, from territorial songs to subtle chirps. They are typically crafted from wood and metal. Before we take a look at how to play them, we are going to first explore the different types of bird caller.
1. Blackbird Bird Caller
Each type of bird caller is designed to mimic a particular bird—for example, the blackbird caller is great for bold territorial calls. While it’s primarily tuned to imitate blackbirds, it can also mimic the calls of other thrush-family birds and similar-toned songbirds such as the song thrush, mistle thrush, strarlings, european robins and fieldfares.
Discover the Blackbird Bird Caller here.
2. Tawny Owl Birdcaller
The Tawny Owl Birdcaller is great for deep hoots and tonal variations. Whilst it is primarily designed to mimic the call of the Tawny Owl (Strix aluco), which is the classic "twit-twoo" sound many people associate with owls in the UK and Europe. It can also attract or provoke responses from other birds, especially other owls like little owls, barn owls, crows, magpies and small woodland birds.
Check out the Tawny Owl Birdcaller.
3. The Common Pheasant Birdcaller
The Common Pheasant Birdcaller is designed to replicate the sharp, crowing call of the Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus), particularly the loud, territorial call made by males. This caller produces a metallic clattering sound effect and can be used in nature to attract different birds and animals. Other game birds like partridges or quails might be drawn in by the sound, as they are somewhat responsive to similar territorial or alarm calls.
It can also cause crows, magpies, and other opportunistic birds to react, either out of curiosity or with mobbing behaviour (since pheasants are sometimes seen as intruders). In some areas, foxes and other predators might also be attracted, as they recognise the pheasant’s call as potential prey. It won’t exactly mimic a wide variety of birds the way some flutes or general birdcalls do but it can stir up related species and create activity in the field.
Take a look at the common pheasant bird caller.
4. The Grey Partridge Birdcaller
The Grey Partridge Birdcaller is specifically tuned to mimic the call of the Grey Partridge (Perdix perdix), especially the distinctive "rick rick rick" sound males use during mating and territorial displays. It could be used to mimic the Eurasian Wigeon, and other partridges such as the red legged partridge. Aside from mimicking, it could catch the attention of pheasants and quails, especially if they’re in the same habitat, as they’re all ground-dwelling game birds with overlapping call ranges.
Explore the Grey Partridge Bird Caller Today.
Each bird caller produces a unique sound that typically mimics a specific bird species; for example, the Blackbird Bird Caller is ideal for classrooms, field trips, and stage use. Even though it's designed to mimic the sound of the blackbird, it can also imitate the high-pitched wagtail. The compact Tawny Owl Birdcaller allows for a playful tone, while the wooden Metallic Pheasant Bird Whistle delivers a different sound that is perfect for birdwatchers. The Grey Partridge Birdcaller accurately mimics both the partridge and the Eurasian Wigeon, offering a range of amusing effects.
Playing Position
To play a bird caller effectively, start by holding it with a relaxed grip, positioning the mouthpiece, or opening close to your lips. Depending on the model, you'll either blow into it or use a gentle twisting motion—so knowing how your specific bird caller works is essential. For blow-style instruments, create an airtight seal with your lips; apply controlled, smooth movements for twist or friction types to produce the desired sound. Experiment with different angles and techniques to discover what works best—exploring is part of the fun and key to unlocking realistic bird calls.
Breathe Control
Breath control is key to producing realistic bird sounds. A soft, quiet breath creates delicate calls, while a stronger breath produces louder tones. Short bursts mimic chirps or peeps; long, steady exhales are ideal for sustained bird songs. Adjusting your breathing allows you to replicate specific bird calls more accurately and discover unique sounds and effects.
