Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje: A Rare Glimpse into Fanø's Historic Waterfowl Tradition

Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, nestled among the windswept meadows and heath south of Sønderho village, is one of Fanø’s historical treasures—an exceptionally preserved duck decoy, or 'fuglekøje'. Once common throughout the Wadden Sea islands, these structures were ingenious trapping and management systems allowing local inhabitants to sustainably harvest wild ducks for centuries. At Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje, visitors step directly into this past. The layout remains as it did in the 19th century, with a central pond radiating several narrow, net-covered channels where wild ducks were once gently guided. A simple wooden hut stands nearby, offering interpretive exhibits and traditional tools. Trails encircle the wetland and are lightly marked by information panels detailing the natural history of the area and the subtle techniques involved in decoy operation—often accompanied by the quiet rustle of reeds and the distant calls of migrating birds. The fuglekøje reveals much about Fanø’s identity: both in the resourcefulness of its people and their relationship with this austere landscape prone to both bounty and hardship. This tranquil spot sits close to ancient tidal flats, attracting countless migratory species. The museum goes beyond simply displaying a bygone practice—it brings visitors into the heart of one of Europe’s most delicate and vital ecological corridors. Experiencing the historic duck decoy system in its original, wind-shaped environment is rare even in Denmark, and this site is among the most atmospheric. Children delight in exploring the unusual tunnels and watching birds, while adults gain a new understanding of pre-modern conservation and hunting. Whether reached for a quiet picnic, a short walk, or a focused nature study, Sønderho Gl. Fuglekøje stands out as an evocative, off-the-beaten-path piece of Fanø’s living heritage.