The health of Quarry species

[Kes]

We hear contrary opinions about the numbers of woodpigeons, teal, snipe, woodcock from other groups and from the field.

We have no problems with Mallard, deer or pheasant numbers but should we not consider funding some detailed eminent scientific research into the general health of specific quarry species where doubts exist? Perhaps the woodie first? Probably the cost of a Roaring Emma.

I know we are not talking the extinction of species by shooting, as with the passenger pigeon but as shooters, and with little definitive research (as far as I am aware), I would like to be sure that as much is passed on to future shooting generations as I received.

Also the BASC name properly links shooting and conservation but are they a repository for or commissioner of definitive research ?

I do not mean the ya booh type of exchanges with the RSPB. I mean image enhancing, challenging research with challenging partners.

I see no real conflict and considerable benefit in planning some independent research with conservation bodies, to prove these things and that we are concerned, responsible people. Locally wildfowlers improve their marshes, shoots improve their biodiversity, is there independent research to prove it absolutely or 'anecdotal' work, or work by some shooting related body?

 

I sometimes worry we aren't doing enough, or being seen to do enough.

Perhaps the future of shooting lies in scientific conservation leading our efforts to ensure sustainable quarry with wider biodiversity benefits.

How much input do we all have to the Stewardship scheme design/implementation?

Any thoughts chaps good or Clarkson.

Cheers

[Beretta28g]

BTO Birdfacts are good.

[scolopax]

In fact wintering mallard numbers in this country have fallen dramatically over the last 20-30 years.

 

The GWCT do some excellent work, they currently have a woodcock tracking project which is worthwhile supporting.

[webber]

We can and should all do more.

 

The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, do some excellent work and have a number of projects running. You can find out more by visiting their website, you could also join as a member, but please don't start to compare their shooting insurance package as its not included as part of membership.

 

webber

[David BASC]

As has been said, there are several sources of information on wild birds - the GWCT woodcock project is, I agree, an excellent bit of ongoing research.

 

There is also, of course, the State of UK birds survey, a collaboration between the RSPB, BTO and NE.

 

This does not just look at game species but all bird species.

 

Latest research shows, as said, mallard number are dropping as are pochard.

 

However, shovelers are up in number as are pinkfeet.

 

When there is already a wealth of independent information out there, there is little sense spending tens of thousands in looking at the same data again and again.

 

More importantly is to look at the reasons for increases / decrease such as habitat loss, regional migration issues, short stopping and so on.

 

Interesting that you mention pheasant in the opening post- I wonder what the pheasant population would be like in the UK if there was no releasing and we had to simply rely on wild birds…

 

Yes all shoots should look to see what they can do to increase the biodiversity of the land they shoot over, this will almost certainly increase the holding habitat for game and will also help many other species as well, both vertebrates and invertebrates.

 

There will be increasing help and support from BASC over the next 18-24 months on this very thing, watch this space!

 

David

Edited December 5, 2011 by David BASC