Frequently asked questions.

Where we are being asked to support with CWS1 grant funding, we will provide an engagement letter setting out the work you are asking us to carry out and the relevant charges. If this includes ongoing management, we will also provide a licence agreement to authorise our activities on the land. However, if you are simply seeking deer-management support, we can also work on a more informal basis where appropriate.

In most cases where you are simply seeking deer-management support, we do not charge. If you would like a species management plan, habitat-impact assessment, other specific work, or full management including the provision of deer-monitoring structures required under CWS1 and ongoing evidence records, we will agree any costs with you in advance. These will typically be funded by part of the annual grant payments you receive.

The first step is an informal, no-obligation conversation by phone. Following that, if both sides are happy, we can arrange to visit the property at your convenience to understand the land, the deer issues and any practical constraints. We can then agree an approach that works for the site and the landowner, whether that is light-touch population control, a specific programme of reduction or a full yearly management service.

Yes. Public and permissive footpaths and other rights of way are an essential consideration. We discuss routes and access patterns as part of planning our approach. We use risk assessment, mapping, careful timing, thermal imaging and signage, where appropriate, to ensure our activity is carried out safely and responsibly. We are used to managing deer on public-access land and are well versed in the sensitivities this involves.

Where a shot is taken, there will usually only be one or two shots over the course of any stalk. In addition, our rifles are fitted with moderators to reduce the noise. Deer-management activity is generally very discreet. We aim to be considerate of people, livestock, neighbours and wildlife. On the whole, landowners are generally only aware we have been because we agree in advance when we are visiting and inform them when we are leaving.

Unless there is a reason the venison cannot enter the food chain, for example due to disease, the deer are either taken to a game dealer for processing or butchered for our and/or the landowner's use. Wild venison is extremely high-quality, entirely organic and free range, and is some of the most ethical meat available. We ensure that none of the meat goes to waste, save where it cannot enter the food chain for reasons outside our control.

No, provided there is good communication and sensible coordination. We aim to complement, not interfere with, other uses of the land. If you have a game shoot, farming enterprise, forestry operations or other activity, we will discuss timings and practical arrangements to avoid conflict. We will not visit unless it has been agreed in advance with the relevant individuals. We can also assist with vermin control where that has been requested.

All our deer stalkers are either DSC1 or PDS1 and basic first-aid trained as a minimum, and appropriately covered under their own insurance, which we hold on file and can supply to clients on request. We are also insured for the advice we provide under our PI insurance, and for installing exclosures under our PL cover. Our deer stalkers also deliver training, including the practical instruction and assessments for certain qualifications.

Yes, if you have been invited to apply to the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier, or have land you expect might be eligible through the expression-of-interest process, we can liaise with your existing agent to handle the deer-management grant-funding side of the application. That is as well as carrying out the required surveys, monitoring, practical management and providing the required exclosures to maintain the funding during the agreement.