Deer Carcass Handling
The skill and knowledge of Deer Carcass Handling is something that we all require new or old to deer-stalking…
The Wild Deer Association of Ireland (WDAI) recently held two deer carcass handling semi- nars, both events were very well supported by deer-stalkers nationally with over 180 attend- ing. This is one of the most popular events the WDAI organises for deer-stalkers, been the 13th consecutive year the event has been held.
The skill and knowledge of Deer Carcass Han- dling is something that we all require new or old to deer-stalking and some would say the real work begins after the animal is culled. This year’s seminars again included all facets of carcass handling with demonstrations on disease identification such as Liver Fluke & TB in wild deer, evisceration, carcass prepa- ration & home butchery, cape preparation for taxidermy, tracking dogs for deer-stalking. Those at- tending were treated to delicious venison BBQ and hot refreshments, both seminars were free of charge for WDAI members. For those looking for a bargain a large display of butchery and stalking equipment was available at dis- counted prices, with all profits going to the WDAI.
Some of the large crowd in attendance.
TB (Bovine Tuberculosis & Avian Tuberculosis) in Wild Deer
While TB can be present in wild deer it is generally a rare occurrence based on the carcasses presented from all regions at our seminars over the last the 13 years with less than 2% show- ing signs of TB, lowland and older ani- mals were the common factors in ef- fected animals. The reality is the badger is more likely to spread TB than a deer as they excrete TB in their urine and can contaminate large ar- eas.
Some of those who helped out on the day, L-R George Kingston, Damien Han- nigan, Wayne O'Hea, Pat Scully, Eddie Graef
All culled deer should be inspected for signs of TB & other illnesses; the common symptoms of TB are infected
lymph glands at the back of the throat, abnormality in the gralloch and/or the pluck, while healthy lymph glands should always be grey or a pinky brown color on examination.
If there are signs of TB it is incumbent on the deer-stalker to immediately notify the landowner where the animal was shot along with informing the local DAFF veterinary office. Proper disposal of any in- fected carcass is key to avoid any further spread of the disease through vermin feeding on the car- cass and only recognised disposal facilities should be used such as a knackery.
I Shoot and Fish E-Zine March 2012
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