Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #126691 in Books
• Published on: 2000-03-29
• Original language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• 192 pages

Synopsis
Sets out the fundamentals of watching, managing and stalking these fascinating and elusive animals in simple language which will be easily absorbed even by the complete beginner.

Customer Reviews

Ideal for those new to deer stalking
Hot off the press comes another excellent book by that "professor of the roe deer", Richard Prior. This latest work of his, "Roe Deer -Management and Stalking", is a must for anyone new to stalking, or for those contemplating taking it up. Although, in typical Prior style, most of what he writes is directed at those with a specific interest in roe, a very large part of the very instructional content is applicable to all British stalkers after any of the country's six species of wild deer. In his acknowledgements, Richard starts by stating that "photographs make or break a book". There is no shortage of photographs and other graphics in this profusely illustrated book, with barely a page in the near 200 devoid of some kind of picture - and they all bear relevance to the topic under discussion in that particular section.

Divided into seven clearly ordered parts, Prior starts with an introduction to the ethics of stalking: a subject that should be foremost in the mind of any deer manager, but is sometimes sadly lacking. The second section, "Know Your Quarry", deals with the biology of roe, including identification, the rut and antler development. "Damage" limitation to woodlands, crops and gardens is the essence of "Management", the topics of parts three and four. Now, having established the need to control deer, the book's largest section goes through the legal considerations involved, followed by selection of hardware - from rifle to rubber gloves!

"Stalking Technique" runs through all the basics, and more, on getting yourself into the position of taking a shot, how to do so, and what to do afterwards. Gralloching and larder work are thoroughly covered by detailed series of photographs (did I detect a fallow pricket getting in on the act?); as are trophy preparation and subsequent measurement. Part seven takes a form familiar to readers of gardening books: "The Stalker's Year" gives a month by month account of what is happening in the roe deer's' world; with a useful 'Hints for the Month' table accompanying each subsection. Finally, appendices list useful data on seasons, ballistics, associations and societies, health and safety, plus who to contact for official trophy measurement.

This is a first-class book to aid the novice or intermediate stalker. For the experienced amongst you, much of the content might be (thought of as) 'old hat'; but, as is almost inevitable with Richard Prior's writings, there is invariably the odd nugget or two of fresh information. "Roe Deer - Management and Stalking" is certainly worth purchasing.

The exemplary work of a true expert.
This book provides a firm basis for learning not only the important facts about the Roe deer, but about British deer lore in general. Prior's knowledge of the Roe is amongst the best in the world, and his opinions are genuine and not born from financial conception. A clear and concise overview of balistics, the gralloch, identification and many other aspects of stalking. This book provides a firm basis for working toward the DSC1 qualification and indeed many of the associated questions are given (intentionally?) a direct answer.

A great book, not too specific even though the title suggests it. For a more detailed work on the Roe species itself, save a little more cash and buy one of Prior's other books; "The Roe Deer".

Thank you Richard, we look foward to the next!