Vogelschießen

Vogelschießen, or bird shooting, is a traditional shooting competition found in many German-speaking regions, often as part of a Schützenfest. In the event, a wooden model of a bird is mounted on a pole or beam and serves as the target. Participants use rifles or air rifles to shoot at the bird, with the goal of removing parts of the bird piece by piece. The competition typically ends when the last remaining part is knocked off, and the shooter responsible for that final hit becomes the Schützenkönig (shooting king). The winner usually receives a crown, a chain of office, or other insignia and assumes a leading role in organizing the next Vogelschießen.

Procedure and format can vary by locality. In many communities the wooden bird is constructed to shed parts sequentially (for example wings, tail, then head) after each successful hit. Some Vogelschießen involve a series of rounds until only the central body remains, while others designate a final shot to determine the König. The event is highly social and ceremonial, often accompanied by parades, festive activities, and community gatherings.

Origin and purpose of Vogelschießen lie in medieval and early modern marksmanship traditions. It historically served as a symbolic hunt and a means to select a local leader or König through skilled shooting, while avoiding real hunting. Today it emphasizes community, tradition, and youth engagement in shooting clubs (Schützenvereine) and remains a staple of many regional festival calendars.

Regional variations exist in rules, terminology, and insignia, but the core idea—shooting a wooden bird to crown a local König—remains consistent across many communities.