Assist with the catching of gamebirds for breeding

This standard is about assisting with the catching of game birds for breeding. It is aimed at those who work in game conservation on either a full- or part-time basis, and can be applied  to any wildlife management area or game farm.

To meet this standard you will be able to:

• set catchers and catch gamebirds
• handle gamebirds and establish them in breeding  areas
• care for gamebirds in a breeding area.

For you to fully understand the content of the standard, and the activities it describes, it is important that you are able to understand the terms used within the standard. See Glossary for some definitions that should help you with this.

1. carry out work safely, in line with relevant health and safety requirements
2. assist with the preparation and establishment of catchers suitable for the catching of gamebirds for breeding
3. monitor and maintain the catchers on a regular basis
4. identify and remove gamebirds from catchers in a manner that minimises stress
5. handle and transport gamebirds in a manner that minimises stress and meets all relevant legal requirements
6. remove and release non-target species in a manner that minimises stress
7. observe and report on the physical condition and health of caught-up gamebirds
8. observe and report on the performance of the catching operation

1. the health and safety requirements associated with the handling of gamebird stock and other wildlife species
2. how to identify and sex breeding stock
3. the legal restrictions controlling the catching and transport of gamebirds
4. how to prepare and maintain catchers according to the relevant legal requirements
5. how to position the catchers to obtain the best results
6. how to identify both target and non-target species
7. how to handle and transport gamebirds in a manner that minimises stress
8. the normal behaviour of game birds and the signs that indicate stress and disorder
9. the advantages and disadvantages of closed flock and caught-up systems

Game – pheasant, partridge, duck

Closed flock – breeding stock that is maintained in captivity throughout its life

Caught-up – stock that is caught before the end of the shooting season

Catcher – a device used to catch live game birds in accordance with legal requirements