Head Stalker

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A career as a Head Stalker

Head Stalkers lead on all aspects of successful wild deer management. They manage stalking activities and contribute to the efficient culling of deer and the conservation and management of the natural habitat.

A Head Stalker will have responsibility for the management of all aspects of the deer programme on an estate; including weapon safety, deer shooting, habitat conservation, resources, people and security. They work closely with neighbouring estate stalkers to ensure an efficient, co-ordinated cull throughout the area.

Deer culls take place at different times of the year depending on the species, sex and where they are in the UK. Head Stalkers need to keep up to date on any changes to the law to give deer protection when they need it and produce a sustainable and healthy population. This work is an essential part of land management and conservation, benefiting moorland, woodland, farmland and other habitats.

Skills/Knowledge

You'll need:

  • an interest and knowledge in the countryside, wildlife, and natural habitats

  • a good level of physical fitness

  • a range of hands-on practical skills

  • patience, perseverance and be able to remain calm in stressful situations

  • be happy to work on your own or managing a larger team

  • excellent communication skills to work with a range of people such as landowners, farm managers, shooting clients and the public

  • excellent organisational skills for stalking days

  • good team management skills

  • a sound understanding of health and safety issues associated with the wildlife and conservation sector

You'll need a driving licence for most jobs, as well as shotgun and firearms certificates. Most roles will also require a recognised Deer Stalking Certificate.

You may also be required to have some experience of working with ponies and horses which are often used on stalks.

Salary

NB These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and the skills and experience of the employee.

£23,000
Typical salaries
range from
£28,000
Typical Hours

Around and over 40 hours per week as directed by the Estate Manager. Head Stalkers will be expected to work weekends and bank holidays as part of their client and shoot management duties. Start and finish times may vary in order to ensure efficient delivery of services and flexibility will be required in working hours to ensure the needs of the business are met.

Day to Day

  • Oversee the work of a small stalking team

  • Plan the management of wild deer

  • Take responsibility for small numbers of shooting guests, planning their shooting activities

  • Maintain and handle guns and oversee their use by guests

  • Shoot deer for culling purposes, to produce a sustainable and healthy population

  • Keep records of what's shot or caught and arrange the sale of game

  • Plan the management and conservation of the natural environment

  • Host small groups on stalks

  • Liaise with other had stalkers and gamekeepers to ensure a planned and efficient cull

  • Plan and manage pest and predator control

Working Environment

The job may involve some heavy physical work and. Head Stalkers will cover large areas of land on foot or in vehicles. You'll work outdoors in all types of weather, sometimes on your own.

Training Available

Training is an essential part of any job, giving you the skills and knowledge you need to do your job safely and correctly. It also helps to strengthen your current skill set and prepares you for the next stage in your career.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships help you build the experience and skills that employers want to see. No matter what stage you’re at, they’ll help set you up for a bright future. There are lots of ways to get involved.

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