Game Keeper

Counting coveys of wild partridge is its own reward — proof that the decisions made regarding feeding, stewardship strips and cover crops were the right ones

Harvest is moving along well with the end almost in sight, which means big chunks of land have been opened up and I have the chance to do a spot of stocktaking: scanning stubbles, counting this year’s game production, especially my broods of beloved wild partridge.

It is the first time since early May that I can get an overview of what’s been going on. And, considering the wet, cold spells of weather we had in June, the head count is surprisingly good.

I never tire of seeing the partridge coveys on the stubble: it is rewarding to know that this new life has, in no small part, sprung from the decisions we took on things like spring feeding, stewardship strips and cover crops. Plus, of course, the hard work that went into implementing them, coupled with a generous pinch of luck.

I’m glad to see the back of the days and nights spent fretting over whether I had the right balance of management measures in place. That said, the story of my young game is about to take another turn and, as a gamekeeper, this is not the moment to sit back and rest on my laurels. I need now to maintain the stock, ready for the shooting season. And change is under way on the shoot as harvest progresses. The cover provided by the 6m margins around every arable field comes into its own, especially when complemented by full hoppers and a plentiful supply of drinkers.