AMA from a deer stalker on countryside management and wildlife

[TooManyAnimals94]

I've been stalking for almost 18 months now. I got into it through my partner who is an experienced stalker of 10 yrs and has several permissions through farmers and landowners to manage deer populations.

I think there are a lot of misconceptions about methods of managing the countryside and the people who do it so I am here to dispel some myths and hopefully have an honest conversation.

My thread is also prompted by the sad case of the stag that was shot in Richmond park after injuring a picnicker. It's a really horrible example of what happens when people don't respect wild animals for what they are.

I looked into it but was put off by the fact that they stink and the females have to be mated to remain healthy and male ferrets aren't into foreplay, apparently! They are such lovely creatures, though.

I wouldn't say that they stink, but they certainly have a musky odour - so do humans though, our natural odour is not particularly pleasant and, to other animals, with better olfactory senses than us, we must reek to high heaven!
Ferrets are scrupulousy clean though, will always toilet in the same corner, or use a litter tray, are highly intelligent, actually very gentle, if handled correctly and not stressed, playful and are wonderful creatures - I admit that I am biased!

Yes, I thought, when I first saw your thread, that you would receive a considerable degree of negativity and I am heartened by the pragmatism and positive thoughts from virtually everyone who has responded.