Faasanikasvatusest Eestis, eriti Siniküla faasanifarmi loomisest ja likvideerimisest

• Main Author: Ülo Siimets
• Format: Article
• Language: Estonian
• Published: Eesti Kirjandusmuuseum 2006-01-01
• Series: Mäetagused
• Subjects: home farms; pheasants; pheasant breeding; game bird breeding; hunting; media text; forest-keeping
• Online Access: http://www.folklore.ee/tagused/nr33/faasanid.pdf

The article provides an overview of the history of pheasant breeding in Estonia. A more detailed account is given on the foundation, activity and closing down of the Siniküla Pheasant Farm, which was active as a home farm of the Tartu Wood Plant and was the largest of such farms in Estonia at all times. The article is based on personal recollections, information about pheasants published in newspapers and in the Internet, interviews with former workers of the pheasant farm, game hunters and other people involved or knowledgeable in pheasant-breeding. Pheasants were formerly bred at estates, for hunting purposes. The Siniküla farm was founded during the establishment of home farms which started in 1985. Two years later there were 4,700 birds on the farm. Changes in the board of the Ministry of Forestry and the incorporation of the Tartu Wood Factory with the wood processing industry Tarmeko brought along a rapid liquidation of the farm. In Estonia, pheasant farms have been founded also later, some being active even today. The study is mostly based on written reminiscences which have enabled to show that the marginal and exotic, yet attractive branch of bird breeding provides memories lasting over generations and still draws the attention of contemporary readers and the media.