I have bird dogs, english setter, 2 english pointers, german pointer, springer spaniel. I raise pheasants for upland game hunting. The dogs see the pens of pheasants all the time. They are used to the pens of pheasants.
One of these pheasants got loose the other day. My dogs were in a pen where I let them run free while I clean their kennels. When I came back to get them, they were all on point at this one loose pheasant. Meanwhile, the pens of pheasants are only 20 feet from them. They don't go on point on them while in that free running pen....
Just curious about why you guys think that is???

They know the difference.

I was thinking that too, but, I was wondering how they know this one is available. (I didn't add that it was behind a fence where we raise deer) sorry [&:]

sunset ; it's sorta like I have witnessed a quail dog retrieving one bird and strick another and point it with a bird in it's mouth.
How did that dog know the difference in smell from one bird right under his nose and a bird in the grass?
kinda weier ain't it?[8D]
Bird dogs are amazing animals to say the least.

Yep, thanks for not thinking my question was too stupid...I am always amazed at how smart these dogs are.

i have pointers and used to raise pheasants. the dogs did not point those in the pen either. i believe this is because the dog has grown acustomed to the sent being there. it is kindof like the dog knows that the one free bird is out of place against the other smells and therefore points it. a dog knows what belongs where and when. they are smarter than we give 'em credit for. after all they lie around and sleep all day, we bring them food and water and clean up after them>

LOL, boy isn't that the truth thanks!