Understanding game bird dispersal and survival following release

This work will provide a better insight into where reared birds go after their release and could help keepers better manage their birds. 

Together with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), BASC is co-funding a post-doc research project at the University of Exeter. Researchers will analyse large datasets on pheasant movement and survival as well as behavioural and habitat interventions by game managers.  

This data will feed into Defra’s review of gamebird regulations in England and will entail the development of a tool which allows game managers and regulators to assess the dispersal of gamebirds in a virtual habitat. This means gamekeepers and regulators will be able to identify where release pens should ideally be located in order to enhance shooting success and decrease potential environmental impacts.