GAME COUNTING

[blueangel]

Hi to the fraternity,
Can anyone please advise if there is an official game counting course and if so who to contact .
Much Appreciated,
Michael.

[Bozz]

I think that would be quite an interesting thing to attend.

The Bateleurs volunteers/assistants have some experience in aerial game counting. Maybe one of them can share some knowledge on this topic from experience.

I think that it is normally done by setting gridlines and following them by GPS. To me the problem is the actual recording technique of your observations.

[blueangel]

Thanks Boss,
Perhaps the guys from Bateleurs will be a good starting place

[lefssa]

I do some game counnting in Hoedspruit, call me I may be able to give you some pointers. email deon@lefssa.com

[old no 7]

First lesson free:

1, 2, 3,4, 5,................

[weedy]

Take photos of any game seen, and then count later while enjoying

[Conrad]

There is still an urgent need for game counting/spotting/finding in Ellisras this weekend. No professional, just help needed!
I guess one can get experience doing it for the first time.

[blueangel]

Deon,
Thanks for the offer, I will contact you in due course,
Mike

[brigg]

Hi Blueangel, a couple of pointers. Dont laugh but practice on herds of cattle as we have varified that most people underestimate by 60% from the air on big herds. If we are counting breeding herds of elephant or big buffalo herds count ten animals and take the area of the ten then take the approximate area that the ten animals take up in the herd. Mentaly see how many times that ten fits into the herd. That method is quick and very accurate.Look for movement and colour and once you are used to that you miss very little from up top. Lastly low level is not the answer. We find 300 feet and above but beware as you have many power lines etc in South Africa. PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU ARE AWARE OF THE DANGER OF THE TOP WIRE THAT IS SO WELL HIDDEN ABOVE PYLON WIRES.

[blueangel]

Hi Ther Brig,

Many thanks for taking the time to give the very sound advise.
Great to hear from the experienced old hands.
Great Flying
Blueangel

[peterb]

Hi Brigg, sounds as if you know what you are talking about, are you involved in Game counting? Please share your experience with us, maybe some pics etc

[brigg]

Hi blueangel, we were very involved in the seventies doing counts in the Okavango Delta and desert. We now do it for pleasure and have done over the years as we are lucky enough to live in Maun. Pictures i am sorry but the computer skills are zero.If you are ever coming up this way give us a shout and call any time for any info i may be able to help you with.