Game and wildlife species

Game Species

Game species are animals hunted for sport or for food, typically divided into two categories: big game and small game.
Big game species include deer, wild boar, and grouse. Characterised by their size, they generally require larger habitats and more complex management strategies.
Small game species include partridges, pheasants, and rabbits. They are often more numerous and can withstand higher hunting pressure.
Understanding the life cycle, habitat requirements, and dietary needs of various game species is vital in effective game management.

Wildlife species encompass all wild animals not characteristically caught for game. These can range from birds, mammals, amphibians, and pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Some wildlife species, like certain bird species, are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and cannot be legally killed or disturbed.
Conservation efforts often focus on key species that play vital roles in ecosystems, such as predators to control prey populations, or pollinators for plant reproduction.
Recognising different wildlife species, their habits, behaviours, and habitats is fundamental knowledge for wildlife management.

Game and wildlife species exist within the same ecosystems, thus their interactions are complex and multifaceted.
Game management practices can have both positive and negative impacts on wildlife species. For example, the maintenance of game cover can also provide habitat for wildlife species.
Conversely, high populations of game species can lead to overgrazing, which negatively impacts the habitat availability for wildlife species.
Invasive game species (like Grey Squirrels) can out-compete native wildlife species for resources, posing significant challenges in management.
Best practice in game and wildlife management involves considering the ecosystem as a whole, rather than focusing on individual species.

Regulations such as the Hunting Act 2004 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provide legal parameters for game and wildlife management.
Ethical considerations apply in all aspects of game and wildlife management, promoting humane treatment of animals and sustainable hunting practices.
License requirements and seasons restrictions aim to ensure that hunting and wildlife disturbance do not lead to species depletion or extinction.
It is crucial to remain current on all legal and ethical guidelines in order to successfully manage game and wildlife species.