Etiquette

The Fort Defiance Hounds want to ensure a safe and enjoyable day of fox hunting. The rules of etiquette help towards this end.

Flights

Most hunts include three groups called “flights” separated into first, second and third flights.

  • First flight is reserved for experienced fox hunters and horses who can jump any of the obstacles riders might encounter during the hunt while keeping up with the speed at which the hounds hunt.

  • Second flight includes experienced horse and rider teams, but jumping is optional. Both First and Second Flights will try to keep up with the huntsman. If the territory does not include any jumps, then First and Second Flights may be combined.

  • Third flight is best for riders or horses who may not be experienced in fox hunting. The pace can be walk, trot or, depending on the willingness of the members of the flight, some cantering.

A person known as the "Flight Leader" leads each of these flights. The Flight Leader will know the country you're riding over and will communicate to you and the Field important information. Flight Leaders will be announced to the field at the beginning of every hunt. Generally, members of the field should stay behind the field master and try not to pass them while hunting.

Fox hunting can be a very exciting sport for both rider and horse. Regardless of you or your horse's past riding experience in other disciplines, FDH recommends that you ride with Third Flight for the first few times to introduce your mount to the sport.

If you feel you must move to another flight while mid-hunt, please be sure to let the Flight Leader know. The Flight Leader will constantly check the Flight to be sure that no riders are missing.

Tail Ribbons

To help you and riders around you stay safe, there is a system of colored ribbons to tie in your horse’s tail to alert those around you to potential horse related hazards.

  • Red ribbon means the horse is not comfortable with horses close behind it and may kick. If your horse may kick, please stay to the back of the flight.

  • Green ribbon means that the horse is inexperienced to foxhunting and it may be unpredictable.

  • Blue ribbon means the horse is a stallion. Please check with the Huntsman or Secretary before bringing a stallion into the field.

  • White ribbon means the horse is for sale.

Right of Way

The Huntsman must work hard to keep up with the hounds and ensure that they do not run out of territory. Hounds also have the right of way. They will sometimes mix with the Flight. Do your best to avoid the hound and alert others in front that a hound may be approaching them from the rear by using the words "Hound Please!"

Whippers In, those who assist the Huntsman, also must sometimes ride fast to get in front of the hounds. The Huntsman and Whippers In have right of way at all times. These folks will announce their need to get through by a call of "Staff Please!" Riders in the flights should immediately move to the side of the road or path with their horse's head pointed towards the staff member. This will help avoid a horse kicking out at the Huntsman or Whipper In.

Reverse Field

Occasionally, a path may be too narrow for riders to get to either side of the path. In that case, you may hear the call "Reverse Field!" Riders should immediately turn around and proceed to the next wide point in the path and move their horses to the side with, again, the horse's head pointed towards the path.

Hazards

The Valley has many ground hog holes and fox dens. If you see a hole, you may alert others to the danger by pointing at the hole and say, "Ware Hole." This also applies to other hazards like a loose wire, dangerous debris, etc.

Voice Level

When hunting, the hounds can become distracted by conversation in the Flight. Please try to keep your conversation to a minimum and use a lower voice if you must speak.

Leaving Early

If you or your horse must leave the hunt early, ask the Flight Leader for advice on how to return to the trailers. In some cases, the Flight Leader may send an experienced member with you to ensure your return.

Unplanned Dismounts

A rider who falls from their horse and is injured must not be moved. The Flight Leader will call emergency services to get help as soon as possible.

Tailgating/Hunt Breakfast

At the conclusion of most hunts, members will gather to discuss the day’s adventures. Members will bring food and beverages to share and guests are always welcome!

We look forward to seeing you our hunting with us soon!