Hawk and Doves

Hawk and Doves

A traditional chase and catch game that allows for variation, cooperation, and strategic thinking. Similar to Sharks and Minnows or Bulldog.

  • 3+ years
  • Group size: 5+
  • Duration: 15 min
  • Alternative physical activities
  • Folk game
  • Mountains, forests and fields
  • Gym / Sports hall
  • Snow / ice
  • Open space
  • Water

One participant is chosen as the hawk, one as the mother dove, and the rest are doves. The hawk stands in the middle, the mother dove on one side, and the doves on the other side of a delimited area. On each side, there is a safe zone where the doves are "free" from being caught by the hawk. The size of the area is adapted to the group; 20-40 meters is a suitable distance between the lines.

Mother dove calls out: 'All my doves, come home and eat!'

The doves reply: 'We dare not, for the hawk will catch us!'

Mother dove: 'Come anyway!'

Once the mother dove has said 'Come anyway!', the doves run from one line (or field) to the other, without being caught by the hawk. Those who are caught become hawks themselves and are to catch the other doves. It may be necessary for an adult to help initiate the mother dove's call and the doves' replies.

Remember that the mother dove stands still a lot. It can therefore be wise to rotate this role, so that everyone gets to move.

Variations

  • Suitable for ice skating and skiing (without poles).
  • Also suitable for swimming pools.
  • Can be played with a ball, where the hawk and/or doves must bounce the ball while moving.
  • Make the game more challenging by increasing the distance between the mother dove and the doves.