Respect for Quarry

Research in the USA, Denmark and over here have indicated that for every hundred game-birds retrieved, thirty will not be gathered and will suffer wounding at various levels which is eventually fatal. This is not acceptable: by changing how we shoot, we can bring this figure down to 10% or less.

What you can do:-

Good shooting also requires a well fitting gun, so get it fitted. Chokes are better a half or tighter - you will have to be a better shot, so more practice. If you normally use 6's, use 5's. It is now fully proved that it is penetration that kills, not pattern.

Learn to judge range and do not shoot birds over 35yds., even with 5's. This is particularly the case at birds crossing or going away where the vital organs are covered by wings or body. If you must shoot long range birds - practice, practice, practice..... Only one in ten guns can hit 6 ex 8 birds at 40yds. and probably only one in forty at 50yds. Clays will break at this range, but birds will only be maimed.

This will not please the purist dog handlers but picking-up should continue throughout the drive. Particular attention being given to to runners and those birds who though fatally wounded and probably brain dead, are still 'lively'. Also stop shooting at a time that will allow pickers-up to have at least one hour of good daylight in which to work.

Do not shoot birds where they cannot be retrieved i.e. over ice covered water, thick reed beds, fast rivers or tides and of course roads or land where you cannot go to retrieve.

Ask BASC for a 'Respect for Quarry' leaflet. They are free to all. Read and inwardly digest.

28/09/06

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