The History and Controversy of Wentletraps: Catching Wildfowl in Medieval Times

Wentletrap is a type of trap that was used in the past to catch wildfowl, particularly geese and ducks. It was a long, narrow pit or trench dug into the ground, with sloping sides and a cover over the top. The trap was baited with food, such as grain or vegetables, and the birds would fly down to feed on it. Once they were inside, the cover was closed, trapping the birds inside.

The term "wentletrap" is derived from the Old English words "wentel," meaning "goose," and "trap." It was used in medieval times and was particularly popular in England and France. The trap was often dug into the ground near a body of water, such as a pond or lake, where the birds would come to feed and drink.

Wentletraps were effective at catching large numbers of birds, but they were also controversial because they were considered to be cruel and inhumane. Many people objected to the use of traps that killed or injured animals for sport or food. Today, wentletraps are no longer used and have been replaced by more humane methods of hunting and wildlife management.