March and April are vitally important months for getting on top of the Muntjac cull. These fair weather loving invasive deer are most active in good weather, a benefit for the stalker that is soon negated by thick summer cover that easily protects such diminutive yet destructive deer. As such, at this time of year we spend a lot of time quietly traversing rides, or in strategically placed high seats, to ensure that we hit our considerable cull target.

This is especially important given the high birth rate of Muntjac, it is estimated that a 30% cull rate is required just to keep numbers stable. Given the impact of these non-native deer on native flora and fauna, stable is often not consistent with environmental targets. Muntjac are particularly partial to ground-level soft foliage, damaging in particular plants such as bluebells and native coppicing.

The impact of a high population is invariably reduced biodiversity and insufficient nesting cover for threatened native birds such as Nightjar. The UK is home to nearly 50% of the world’s bluebells, it is inconceivable that this ancient woodland staple should be allowed to disappear due to an invasive species.

The bi-product of this crucial pest control job is, thankfully, delicious. Although standing no taller than a spaniel, Muntjac have a relatively decent body mass and provide wonderful venison. The meat has a tighter grain than the larger species, and has a sweeter – less ‘gamey’ – taste. It is an accessible and enjoyable treat for those not used to eating wild game. 

On flat ground, or in small plots where the 'perfect' approach is unworkable, a highseat is a hugely valuable tool to ensure that a safe trajectory and backstop is achieved.

The dilemma is whether to build a wooden permanent seat, which allows you to turn up before first light at any given time, or invest in a modern metal seat that can be transported to multiple sites but requires a bit more planning if you want to have one in place ahead of a morning session.

Often the answer to this dilemma is dictated by the site. Is a permanent structure likely to be vandalised or used as a tree house? Is access with movable seat practical? There is no generic best option. 

That being said, a homemade or purchased fixed seat has the ability to be bigger and offer the shooter a better body and resting position when taking a shot.

In the next couple of months the pregnant Fallow Does will be starting to think about their next birthing, which is usually in June or July.

This doesn't effect the female young from last year's birthing season, which will stay with the herd. For the males, or Prickets, life is a bit tougher. The Does will be forcing them out in the next 6 weeks or so. 

This is an important time of year or us, for two reasons:

1. A single animal, especially a relatively inexperienced one, is easier to sneak up on than a group; and,
2. More dispersed animals means that it is more likely that you will cross paths with some, and it increases the chances of a second opportunity if you are successful early on.

This is the time to get the cull numbers for young bucks. Time spent in early spring is well rewarded.

The Prickets will form small groups of 4 or 5 relatively quickly. When this happens the trick is to try and take two from the same group if you have an opportunity. Although, and this cannot be stressed enough, only if you are 100% sure of your first shot. With sound moderators the bucks are unlikely to know where the source of danger is located, often the loudest noise they hear is the bullet strike. It is not uncommon for them to run towards you!!

Prickets are usually excellent table animals, and the other (significant) advantage is that they are certainly a lot easier to lug about than the older beasts!